Navigating the American West

If you've ever stared in awe at the Rocky Mountains and wondered how early travelers could possibly traverse those peaks, then this is the book for you

In a time of smartphones, GPS devices, and voice automated navigation systems, it's difficult to imagine crossing unknown deserts, mountains, and prairies with just a few ancient techniques and the heavens above. This history of movement across the American West brings three centuries of travel to life. It shows how four different cultures, in four different areas, migrated across this harsh and beautiful land: the native travelers on foot, Spanish conquistadors on horseback, Frenchmen by canoe, and American settlers by wagon. In this history, the "who," "where," and "when" take a back seat to the fascinating "how." How did they find their way from place to place? How did they measure time, distance, and direction traveled? How did they provide themselves with food, water, and shelter-the barest necessities of human existence?

Travel the myth and reality of the raw land that made the American West. Discover the depth of human bravery, determination, and ingenuity. And enjoy the adventure.