Jason Stevenson - The Complete Idiots Guide to Backpacking and Hiking

Dear Reader,

I believe our society might have its priorities mixed upand Im not talking about politics. Im talking about fun.

Just hear me out.

Imagine you meet someone at a party and ask them what they do. Chances are theyll tell you where they work. It might take five more minutes of conversation to discover what they like to do for fun.

Thats because for far too many of us, our work week defines who we are. Wouldnt it be better if our weekend activities, and not just the Monday to Friday grind, were our calling card to the world? Just think how refreshing it would sound if someone introduced themselves like this:

Hi, Im Jeff. Im a backpacker and trail-runner, and I work as a paralegal so that I can buy new shoes.

Even those of us who enjoy our careers can benefit from redefining ourselves and our goals. Maybe thats why youre holding this book. Maybe youre seeking to add something exciting like backpacking and hiking to your life.

Well, I invite you to consider this book as your passport to a new identity. With hiking as your hobby, your next adventure could be as close as your backyard or as distant as the Alaskan tundra. And not only does being active outdoors make you stronger and healthier, but it helps you meet like-minded people.

It can even take you places you never knew existed. For instance, when was the last time you saw one thousand stars blanketing the night sky? Or, have you ever experienced complete silence? These are the special places that you can only find on the trail.

Excited already? Then grab your boots, pack, and tent (and this book), and Ill see you out there.

Jason Stevenson

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Copyright 2010 by Jason Stevenson

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THE COMPLETE IDIOTS GUIDE TO and Design are registered trademarks of Penguin Random House LLC

ISBN: 9781592579600
Library of Congress Catalog Card Number: 2009937007

eISBN: 9781101222973

Interpretation of the printing code: The rightmost number of the first series of numbers is the year of the books printing; the rightmost number of the second series of numbers is the number of the books printing. For example, a printing code of 10-1 shows that the first printing occurred in 2010.

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Note: This publication contains the opinions and ideas of its author. It is intended to provide helpful and informative material on the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding that the author and publisher are not engaged in rendering professional services in the book. If the reader requires personal assistance or advice, a competent professional should be consulted.

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To my father, who first took me camping.
And in memory of William Bill Reid, a scouts Scoutmaster.

1. 1. 1. Start off with shorter hikes that let you sleep in your own bed at night.
   2. 1. Finding a satisfying trail whether you hike by yourself, with a partner, or in a group.
   3. 1. The complete guide to a comfortable nights sleep at parks, campgrounds, and backcountry tent-sites.
   4. 1. Getting deeper into the woods, mountains, or wherever you want to explore by carrying everything you need on your back.
   5. 1. Everyday fitness routines to get you in shape for any level of hiking.
   6. 1. Easy-to-follow map, compass, and GPS tutorials to keep you on the right trail.
2. 1. 1. The lifesaving gear you should never leave home without.
   2. 1. Expert advice on how to buy high-quality and long-lasting equipment.