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Long-Distance Hiking: Lessons from the Appalachian Trail

Long-Distance Hiking: Lessons from the Appalachian Trail

Book Details

Author Roland Mueser
Publisher International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press
Year Published 1997
Pages 192
Description Blending sage advice with personal experiences and anecdotes, this unconventional book is an unusually thoughtful account of long-distance trekking on the Appalachian Trail. Mueser draws upon interviews and questionnaire data gathered from over 100 long distance hikers hoofing it through the Appalachian Mountains.

In April 1989, avid hiker Roland Muerser set off from a shelter at Springer Mountain, Georgia. His goal: to hike the entire Appalachian Trail, interviewing hikers on everything from clothing and gear to coping with loneliness and fatigue. In Long-Distance Hiking he draws on those extensive interviews, presenting hikers' candid responses to questions both practical and philosophical:

Which brand of backpack do most long distance hikers prefer?
How much money will I need?
Is a walking stick an advantage or a nuisance?
What percentage of hikers wear underwear?
Is it safe to hike alone?
Which brand of camp stove is most efficient and easiest to pack?
Is there sex on the trail?
How many miles do most hikers' boots or shoes hold up?
What are the most difficult aspects of long-distance hiking?

Both literate and entertaining, this book is a must for anyone considering a long-distance trek.

User reviews

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Overall:
 
5.0   (1)
 
 

Comprehensive

Overall:
 
5.0
steve Reviewed by steve
November 02, 2009
#1 Reviewer
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Talk about comprehensive. Essentially the author has sat down and interviewed 100s of hikers. The book is full of data like this:

20% of hikers walk between 0.8 to 1.2 miles per hour
70% of hikers walk between 1.3 to 1.7 miles per hour
10% of hikers walk between 1.8 to 2.1 miles per hour

However, its also really well written. You read it and he explains the data, puts it into context and turns it into something you can use.

Lots of great advice on equipment, on which books to carry, animals to look out for and more.