Introduction 1

Part1: Getting Started with Hiking 5

Chapter 1: Hiking and Backpacking 101 7

Chapter 2: Finding Your Hiking Style: Solo, Group, Family, and Canine Adventures 13

Chapter 3: Planning Your Journey into the Wild 23

Chapter 4: Building Strength and Stamina for Hiking 29

Chapter 5: Leave No Trace Hiking and Camping 41

Chapter 6: Trip Checklists: Day Hikes and Backpacking Excursions 45


Part2: Gearing Up 51

Chapter 7: Using Gear to Hike, Not Hiking to Use Gear 53

Chapter 8: Choosing Your Big Four: Backpack, Shelter, Sleeping Bag, and Sleeping Pad 61

Chapter 9: Selecting Clothing and Footwear for Hiking 85

Chapter 10: Packing for Your Trip 97


Part3: Setting Out on the Trail 107

Chapter 11: Optimizing Your Hiking Day 109

Chapter 12: Finding Your Way in the Wilderness 117

Chapter 13: Encountering Animals in the Woods 131

Chapter 14: Five Essential Hiking Skills 145

Chapter 15: Dealing with Mother Nature’s Curveballs 165


Part4: Creating a Home Away from Home 171

Chapter 16: Finding and Setting Up Your Campsite 173

Chapter 17: Evening and Morning Camp Routines 183


Part5: Prioritizing Health and Safety 189

Chapter 18: Eating Well on the Trail 191

Chapter 19: Hydrating and Purifying: Wilderness Water Solutions 199

Chapter 20: Staying Clean(ish) While Hiking and Backpacking 211

Chapter 21: Navigating Bites, Stings, and Skin Conditions 221

Chapter 22: Regulating Body Temperature in the Wilderness 237

Chapter 23: Hiking at High Elevations 249

Chapter 24: Surviving Nature’s Emergencies 257

Chapter 25: First Aid Essentials for Hikers 267


Part6: The Part of Tens 273

Chapter 26: Ten Hiking and Backpacking Myths 275

Chapter 27: Ten Mistakes Beginner Hikers Make 281

Chapter 28: Ten Dream Hiking Destinations 289

Index 297