Hiking and Backpacking Book

Preface

Part I. Preparing for a Hiking or Backpacking Adventure

Chapter 1. Going Hiking and Backpacking
Briget Tyson Eastep and Marni Goldenberg
What's Hiking All About?
What's Backpacking All About?
In Between Day Hiking and Backpacking
Taking Care of Yourself, Your Companions, and the Environment
Where to Go?
Conclusion

Chapter 2. Getting Fit for Hiking and Backpacking
Denise Mitten
Fitness Benefits of Hiking and Backpacking
Components of Physical Fitness
Overall Wellness
Matching Fitness to Trips
Getting Fit for Backpacking
Conclusion

Chapter 3. Footwear, Clothing, and Gear
Hugh Gibson and Jerel Cowan
Basic Rules for Purchasing Gear
Feet First
Dressing for Outdoors
Selecting and Using Day Packs and Backpacks
Food and Water: Eating on the Trail
First Aid Kit
Essentials for the Day Hiker
Gear Considerations for Overnight and Longer Trips
Gear Function and Maintenance
Conclusion

Chapter 4. Getting Trail Ready: Finding Your Way
Scott Jordan and Christine Cashel
Planning the Route
Using a Map, Compass, and More
Permits and Paperwork
Getting to the Trailhead
Managing Risk
Conclusion

Chapter 5. Trail Safety and Survival Skills
Bruce Martin and Scott A. Robertshaw
Trail Safety
Wilderness First Aid
Emergencies, Rescues, and Survival
Conclusion

Part II. On the Trail

Chapter 6. Hiking Basics
Timothy W. Kidd and Jennifer Marie Hazelrigs
Walking Techniques
Trail Manners
Maintaining EnergyLevels
Strategies for Various Terrains and Environments
Descending and Climbing
Crossing Streams and Rivers
Conclusion

Chapter 7. Hiking Adventures
Jennifer L. Hinton, Jim Lustig, and Briget Tyson Eastep
Types of Hiking Adventures
Hiking Environments and Seasons
Additional Considerations for Day Hiking
Conclusion

Chapter 8. Basics of Backcountry Camping
Andrew Jerome Bobilya and Brad Daniel
Before Camping
Selecting a Campsite
Factors Involved in Setting Up Camp
Cooking
Sleeping
Breaking Camp
Conclusion

Chapter 9. Planning Your Backpacking Experience
Jack Drury
Thinking Through the Planning Process
Trip Planning and Length
Planning Considerations
Special Considerations
Conclusion

References
Resources
Success Checks
About the Contributors