Backpacker Long Trails: Mastering the Art of the Thru-Hike

I really enjoyed reading all that Liz wrote about her experiences on the long trails. Her advice is sound and thorough, and when something is her personal opinion, she states that clearly. She spends a good amount of time addressing the mental and emotional aspects of long distance hiking, not just the gear and physical prep. Her list of resources at the back of the book is a big plus for me. She also includes input from various other long distance hikers which broadens the perspective.

Liz Thomas's excellent book about long trails is far more than a series of checklists of what to pack or how to get in shape for a lengthy hike. Even before getting to Chapter 1, the reader learns a crucial skill: asking "Why?" Why do I want to go on this hike, why this trail, why this year or season? Why solo or why with this friend(s)?Liz doesn't just drop the subject there, however; she takes a few pages (with enticing photos to encourage thoughts of the trail) to explain how to get to one's why--and why the "Why?" matters. This introductory section may well be the most important in the entire book. Readers who have read Simon Sinek's book (or watched his TED Talk), "Start with Why," will see a fine example of applying that approach to life.What Liz points out is that understanding one's motives, and visualizing the achievement, are two necessary preparations for success--and not just for completing a long hike.Get Liz's book, read it, do the homework, and be prepared to take on the trail with confidence and understanding.Philip "Philosopher" Kollas

This author definitely knows her stuff. I loved the practical information but even more than that I like the way it was presented. She is humble and gives very good advice on so many facets of long distance hiking. She reminds hikers to be stewards of the earth and to be generous with the trail angels that help them along the way. I know I will never walk most of these hikes but it is sure fun to read about the places Liz treks. I had the pleasure of meeting this author at the LA book Festival. She is unassuming but chock full of knowledge and very humble and kind. It was a joy to spend time with her. The book has beautiful illustrations that adds to its charm. Do yourself a favor and if you are planning on long distance hiking (or even if you want to just dream about it) buy this book. Happy trails for sure

Although you can find out much of the info online, the book provides a condensed overview of US long trails.

Over the years I have had the opportunity to review and read numerous books related to long distance hiking, whether it was someone's journey on a trail, a gear guide of what to bring, or the basics of how to hike. Most of these books give a good glimpse of what to expect but now this book gives you all the fact you need to know to have a successful hike and enter the long distance hiking world with the know-how you need to not only have a dialed in pack, but also have a great grasp on resupply strategy, foot care and every other aspect you need to enjoy the world of long distance hiking.This book is a great resource and a must have for anyone wanting to tackle a hike from 100 miles to 3,000 miles. The layout is fantastic, the photography will have you longing to pick up the pack and get outside, and the knowledge within its pages from a slew of experienced long distance hiking is one of the best resources I have ever seen compiled.I only wish this book had existed in the mid-1990's when I was preparing for my first thru-hike along the Appalachian Trail as it would have made my start easier and my pack much lighter. This book is a must have for any hiker out there.

This is a fabulous book. As an experienced backpacker and someone who has done years of research preparing for their first long trail, I can confirm that this guide delivers in answering your burning questions about long trails. Plus the author herself is an expert and gives fantastically detailed explanations for why she does what she does. At the same time, perspectives from other hikers of various backgrounds are included.This book has everything. I mean everything. Trail descriptions, advice on how to deal with job/family/finances, gear advice, training advice, nutrition, extensive list of references, and a much-needed section on prompting you to ask the right questions before beginning your hike.Highly recommend.

Where do I start? There are so many good things to say about this book. A very useful resource for both the beginning and experienced long distance hiker who is looking to improve their skills or make gear choices. Liz Thomas's very complete guide to explaining the sometimes mysterious aspects of planning a long distance hike goes a long way toward reducing a new hiker's fear of the unknown.I was especially interested in the section on trail nutrition. The gear comparison section, where Liz and several other hikers show you what is in their packs, item by item is invaluable. It's always interesting to see what other hikers are packing and helps me to refine a system that works better for me. That evolution seems to be a never ending process.Liz Thomas's passion for hiking and her vast experience with long trails really comes through in her book. I am very impressed with the many topics that are covered.

I loved this book. I'm just a dreamer when it comes to hiking long trails. A few backpacking trips, lots of day trips...but the long trails beckon. This book was a great book for a dreamer, reminding me that I can start slowly and plan a little bit at a time. It was full of good tips (and explaining why) for any hiker - getting in shape, choosing gear, trail etiquette, Leave No Trace, setting your pace. The pictures were beautiful and made me want to hike every trail. Liz includes anecdotes from many different hikers - and reminds everyone to "hike your own hike". I highly recommend this book to anyone (including armchair travelers) interested in what it would take to hike a long trail!

Good book that does a good job of explaining all facets of ultra light backpacking.

Very happy with this book. It gives good information about what it takes, and what you need during a thru hike.

Great product, arrived quickly