Tackle a favorite trail with a lighter pack. Plan a stress-free multiday excursion. Be prepared for anything.Written by expert wilderness educators, this comprehensive guide tackles the technical skills every trail traveler should master. New hikers and enthusiasts alike can use this approachable yet authoritative resource to make trips of all levels and durations easier, safer, and more fun. For beginners, the book offers a strong grounding in day-hiking essentials such as gear, basic navigation, and safety tips. More experienced readers can brush up on backpacking basics, including detailed trip planning, efficient packing, and advanced wilderness ethics. Even backcountry trip leaders will find a wealth of information to help safely lead groups for overnights excursions or week-long wilderness treks.From cover to cover, this must-have guide is packed with the wisdom of its authors and with best practices upheld by the Appalachian Mountain Club s outdoor leadership training programs. Between them, authors Christian Bisson and Jamie Hannon boast nearly 50 years of time in the North American backcountry. Their experience trekking with friends, family, and students have given them essential context for preparing anyone for the unknowns every hiker faces on the trail. Weather, accidents, and a whole host of worst-case scenarios are given their due along with tried-and-true ways of avoiding them in the first place.Whether readers want to map out a new adventure in the wilderness, perfect their pace and pack weight, or simply plan a weekend of car camping and day hikes, this guide will be an essential companion to enjoying every moment outdoors.ALSO AVAILABLEAMC Guide to Outdoor Leadership, 3e by Alex KosseffISBN-13: 978-1-628420-34-0 AMC Guide to Winter Hiking and Camping, 2e by Yemaya Maurer and Lucas St. ClairISBN-13: 978-1-934028-12-4 AMC Guide to Outdoor Digital Photography by Jerry MonkmanISBN-13: 978-1-934028-50-6"