Useful Resources and Books for Hiking
1. Hiking Guides
- REI Expert Advice – Hiking: Comprehensive hiking tips and guides for all levels.
- Hiking Project: A community-driven guide to trails across the U.S. with detailed maps and reviews.
- AllTrails: Trail maps, photos, and user reviews to find the best hikes around the world.
- National Park Service Hiking Guide: Tips and resources for hiking in U.S. national parks.
2. Essential Hiking Gear
- Backpacker Magazine Gear Reviews: In-depth reviews of hiking gear, from backpacks to boots.
- OutdoorGearLab: Comprehensive gear testing and reviews for outdoor equipment.
- The Adventure Junkies – Hiking Gear Guide: Gear lists and recommendations for hikers.
3. Books on Hiking
- A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson: A humorous and insightful account of hiking the Appalachian Trail.
- Wild by Cheryl Strayed: A memoir of hiking the Pacific Crest Trail as a journey of self-discovery.
- The Complete Walker IV by Colin Fletcher: A classic guidebook to hiking and backpacking for beginners and experts alike.
- The Ultralight Backpacker by Ryel Kestenbaum: A guide to minimalist hiking and packing.
4. Outdoor Safety and Navigation
- The Mountaineers – 10 Essentials for Hiking: The must-have items for safety while hiking.
- Hiking Navigation Guide by Hiker Hunger: A guide to understanding maps, compasses, and GPS devices for hiking.
- Backpacker Magazine – Beginner's Guide to Hiking Safety: Key safety tips for hikers, from hydration to weather preparedness.
5. Hiking Communities and Forums
- Reddit – Hiking: A popular forum for hikers to discuss trails, gear, and share experiences.
- Hiking Forums: A dedicated space for discussing trails, techniques, and outdoor experiences.
- Trailspace Forums: Discussions on gear, backpacking, and hiking tips for all levels.