View Full Version : Dan Bruce 2006 Thru-Hiker Handbook ??
norfamericana
08-07-2006, 17:44
I was told this is the best book to get for the AT but i cant find it anywhere. Not online, not in my city (Philly), not amazon or BN or borders etc etc. Anyone know anything that could help me find this puppy?
SGT Rock
08-07-2006, 17:45
Try www.trailplace.com
Try www.trailplace.com
Where you absolutely will find it.
norfamericana
08-07-2006, 17:59
is there another way then just shipping off a check to an individual?
SGT Rock
08-07-2006, 18:01
Well if you live near an outfitter you may get lucky and they might have a copy. Otherwise that is the only way I know of.
Try looking for the companion.
DawnTreader
08-07-2006, 18:02
is there another way then just shipping off a check to an individual?
This is exactly the reason I bought the Aldha companion rather than the wingnut.. I would rather not do business like that.. send me a check and I'll send you the book when the check clears....????Although I have seen the dictators book and it apears to be rather comprehensive.. The Aldha companion worked great for me!
Jack Tarlin
08-07-2006, 18:23
The book is published by the print-on-demand system, meaning a limited number are printed at a time, with more to follow as needed. This system works well for books with a modest print run, or books with a limited readership, such as hiking guidebooks. It means that there's little wastage, fewer unsold copies, and probably better reveunue for the author.
In the case of the Handbook, it means you can't find it at a bookstore or on-line store, but if you order a copy from the author, you WILL get it in 2-3 days. Mine took two days to arrive.
Also, if he holds checks til they clear, there's a simple reason....over the years, Mr. Bruce has received dozens of freak checks from customers, and he's tired of it. Dealing with this problem is time-consuming and expensive. The simplest thing might be to send him a US Postal Money Order, and your order will be processed immediately.
If you don't wish to order direct from the author, most of the better Outfitters directly on or near the Trail probably still have copies of the 2006 book in stock. Try the Outfitter at Harpers Ferry at 888-535-2087.
I have one available, pgs 135 to 148 are unattached but included, if interested PM me
eric_plano
08-07-2006, 18:30
I know there is a lot of controversy around Wingfoot but all these people with Handbooks are not being ripped off and I had no problems getting either of mine. If it is a matter of being afraid to send a check I wouldn't worry about losing your money...if it is the principle of sending a check I would agree, go with the companion.
TJ aka Teej
08-07-2006, 19:31
I was told this is the best book to get for the AT but i cant find it anywhere. Not online, not in my city (Philly), not amazon or BN or borders etc etc. Anyone know anything that could help me find this puppy?
If you're in the planning stages for next year's hiking season, see Baltimore Jack's maildrop list and the other articles under the "Thru Hiking Info" link above. Check out, at no charge, the '06 ALDHA Companion at www.aldha.org (http://www.aldha.org). You'll find both books at EMS and REI, and on Amazon, too. The Companion and the DataBook, but not the Handbook, are available thru the ATC's official website at www.appalachiantrail.org (http://www.appalachiantrail.org). ATC members get a discount on purchases. Join and participate at www.trailplace.com (http://www.trailplace.com), and continue to participate here on Whiteblaze. See if you can make it to the Gathering or a Ruck. Around February both '07 versions of the two guides should be available. Make the decision regarding your purchase at that time.
Jack Tarlin
08-07-2006, 19:38
Wow!!
Am I reading incorrectly, or has Teej actually suggested one join and support Trailplace?
Will wonders never!
Even I don't suggest that to people!
Could Teej be mellowing out a bit as time trudges on? What's next, perhaps a suggestion that folks go to FoxNews for a new and different perspective once in awhile?
Nah, I don't think we're quite there just yet. :D
TJ aka Teej
08-07-2006, 20:03
Wow!!
Am I reading incorrectly, or has Teej actually suggested one join and support Trailplace?
Never said "support", I said join and participate. That's the best why for anyone to learn, and decide for themselves. What answers do you think he'll get if he asks about the Companion, the Gathering, Billville, Whiteblaze.net, or the Ruck over at Trailplace, Jack?
What answers do you think he'll get if he asks about the Companion, the Gathering, Billville, Whiteblaze.net, or the Ruck over at Trailplace, Jack?Brilliant, just brilliant!
the goat
08-07-2006, 20:37
wingnut's book is good, albeit inaccurate in several places the last i used it ('03). nice layout though, even if you do have to deal with bruce's self-aggrandizing comments....does he still have the one on the sleeze a/b one of his hikes being "the centerpiece of the AT's fiftieth anniversary celebration"? hahahahaha, i laughed my ass all the way to georgia with that one!
in 2000, i sent my money, and never got my book or money. i've confronted wingfoot about the matter several times and he tells me that i'm lieing. if you want it, and don't want to prepay, mountain crossings at neel gap has it in stock. i've got to recomend the companion for town navigation and information, and the ATC's maps for trail navigation. by supporting the ATC by buying their maps, you're supporting the trail you're walking on. supporting wingfoot, well, just supports wingfoot.
Pacific Tortuga
08-07-2006, 21:51
in 2000, i sent my money, and never got my book or money. i've confronted wingfoot about the matter several times and he tells me that i'm lieing. if you want it, and don't want to prepay, mountain crossings at neel gap has it in stock. i've got to recomend the companion for town navigation and information, and the ATC's maps for trail navigation. by supporting the ATC by buying their maps, you're supporting the trail you're walking on. supporting wingfoot, well, just supports wingfoot.
What say you MOWGL16 ? :-? ;)
LOL.... Teej caught Jack sleeping! :D
FWIW, I've yet to find a successful mail order place that didn't require one to send a check or a credit card payment when one orders. I know nothing about Wingfoot's failure to send the book in 2000 or whenever.
Wingfoot strikes me as a bit eccentric, but honest. The trail provides him with a rather marginal income, I suspect. In return he has done a great deal for the trail, especially during the bitter Saddleback dispute eight years ago.
Weary
in 2000, i sent my money, and never got my book or money. i've confronted wingfoot about the matter several times and he tells me that i'm lieing. if you want it, and don't want to prepay, mountain crossings at neel gap has it in stock. i've got to recomend the companion for town navigation and information, and the ATC's maps for trail navigation. by supporting the ATC by buying their maps, you're supporting the trail you're walking on. supporting wingfoot, well, just supports wingfoot.
If you sent him a check and he says he didn't get it... then you aren't out any money. Was the check ever cashed?
Wingfoot strikes me as a bit eccentric, but honest.
Weary
As in 7 thrus and 25,000 miles?!:confused: I think :-? NOT. I prefer to support the ATC, thanks. :)
Jack Tarlin
08-08-2006, 15:17
I have no idea what he'd have to say about those things, Teej, nor do I much care. Unlike some people I could mention, I don't obsess about Mr. Bruce, his book, or his website. And considering your obsessive loathing of the man, I was kinda surprised to see you promote his site in any way. I thought this was kinda funny. Evidently, on this subject at any rate, your sense of humor has gone hiking. Sure hope it finds its way back someday.
I have no idea what he'd have to say about those things, Teej, nor do I much care. Unlike some people I could mention, I don't obsess about Mr. Bruce, his book, or his website. And considering your obsessive loathing of the man, I was kinda surprised to see you promote his site in any way. I thought this was kinda funny. Evidently, on this subject at any rate, your sense of humor has gone hiking. Sure hope it finds its way back someday.Maybe I missed Teej's point, but in his post I thought he didn't like Wingfoot at all, but rather than say "Avoid him" and starting yet another Wingfoot War, Teej cleverly said to go to Trailplace and discuss this. So when the guy goes to Trailplace and gets banned by mentioning Subjects-Which-Cannot-Be-Discussed, he will know all he needs to know, and know it better than if Teej has simply said, "Avoid Wingfoot."
I thought it was brilliant.
(I cannot believe I am singing the praises of Teej. Someone please shoot me now :D )
the goat
08-08-2006, 18:52
wingnut's book is good, albeit inaccurate in several places the last i used it ('03). nice layout though, even if you do have to deal with bruce's self-aggrandizing comments....does he still have the one on the sleeze a/b one of his hikes being "the centerpiece of the AT's fiftieth anniversary celebration"? hahahahaha, i laughed my ass all the way to georgia with that one!
:o sorry that should read: "....does he still have the one on the sleeve"
Skidsteer
08-08-2006, 19:10
:o sorry that should read: "....does he still have the one on the sleeve"
It was included in the 2004 edition. :rolleyes:
If you sent him a check and he says he didn't get it... then you aren't out any money. Was the check ever cashed?
yep, got the cashed check with my statement. according to wingfoot, there was a problem with the publisher in 2000, and those who didn't receive their book were refunded. i've got to call bullsht on that one. it didn't happen to just me. also, many that did get their book, got it about november. that's about 9 months too late in my opinion.
Lone Wolf
08-08-2006, 19:39
yep, got the cashed check with my statement. according to wingfoot, there was a problem with the publisher in 2000, and those who didn't receive their book were refunded. i've got to call bullsht on that one. it didn't happen to just me. also, many that did get their book, got it about november. that's about 9 months too late in my opinion.
Gypsy finally got her Handbook in Late Nov. of 2000, way late for it to have been of any use. Dan ***ed up that year. Bottom line. He gave no apologies or explanations either.
I was thankful for his book on my thru, but I must say that there were SO many errors in water locations and such just during the first 50 miles that I questioned whether or not to go with another source.
I was thankful for his book on my thru, but I must say that there were SO many errors in water locations and such just during the first 50 miles that I questioned whether or not to go with another source.
Add that to being dishonest,:( lacks integrity:( and steals hikers money:mad: ; why NOT go with the Companion?:confused:
the goat
08-08-2006, 20:21
It was included in the 2004 edition. :rolleyes:
i don't know whether or not ya'll heard a/b this, but my 2001 thru hike served as the centerpeice of the AT's sixty-fourth anniversary celebration!:eek: :D
Gypsy finally got her Handbook in Late Nov. of 2000, way late for it to have been of any use. Dan ***ed up that year. Bottom line. He gave no apologies or explanations either.
same thing happened to STR. i miss that crazy sob. i wonder where he is.
same thing happened to STR. i miss that crazy sob. i wonder where he is.
Does STR stand for something, I know several crazy sobs.;) :D
Lone Wolf
08-08-2006, 20:52
Silver Tounged Rebel
max patch
08-08-2006, 21:13
....does he still have the one on the sleeze a/b one of his hikes being "the centerpiece of the AT's fiftieth anniversary celebration"? hahahahaha, i laughed my ass all the way to georgia with that one!
Actually, thats not too far from the truth. You must not have been around in 1987 -- check your history books.
It seems that there are enough people to support him for him to keep publishing the book each year.
I have never met him, but have not heard many good things about him. I have heard more about the website and his "dictatorship" there, it's a wonder anyone visits if this is the case, but at the same time, I guess it's his 'sandbox'.
Nean, I appreciate your input, and advice. I don't think I will purchase another book from him, I didn't like the tone on his order instructions, nor did I appreciate how the innacurate information affected my hike this year, and also those around me, many of whom I offered info from my book, and it was not correct info - that part truly bothered me.
Pacific Tortuga
08-09-2006, 00:17
Wingfoot this: Wingfoot that: Blah ! Blah ! Blah ! move on, life is to short.
Thou of little faith :
Thou without sin :
Take the log out of your eye :
Where is that old time Christian forgiveness ?
If you didnt finish your thru dont pass the buck because a water hole or five wasn't where Wingfoot said, better luck next year and God Bless.
You didn't get a Handbook or it was to late to use......SIX years
ago......there are greater tragedies every minute where you live least not
around the world . If it makes it feel better, I'll buy you some cheese to go
with that whine next year on the Trail.
Almost There
08-09-2006, 00:19
Met a thru hiker in June coming down into the Tye River off the Priest. Introduced myself and she introduced her self as Dubs or W's. Asked her where she got that name and she said she had bought Wingfoot's book, and although there was some good information in it, there were some inaccuracies that had screwed her up and she had gotten to talking about it with other hikers as she would slog up a mountain that wasn't mentioned, or looked for a trailside that wasn't there and as she did this she kept saying, "F' ing Wingfoot" over and over again, finally someone gave her the Trailname, "F' ing Wingfoot". Thought it was funny considering things I have seen and heard about the man! She shortened to W's while in polite company!
BTW, for you Wolf, after talking about hiking that night after taking her to dinner in Waynesboro, she told my hiking partner that I may have corrupted her into leaving the purist mentality and coming over to the Blue Blazin' Hiker Trash way of thinking!
That's two females I have corrupted, Wolf, and neither is my wife!:banana
Wingfoot this: Wingfoot that: Blah ! Blah ! Blah ! move on, life is to short.
Thou of little faith :
Thou without sin :
Take the log out of your eye :
Where is that old time Christian forgiveness ?
If you didnt finish your thru dont pass the buck because a water hole or five wasn't where Wingfoot said, better luck next year and God Bless.
You didn't get a Handbook or it was to late to use......SIX years
ago......there are greater tragedies every minute where you live least not
around the world . If it makes it feel better, I'll buy you some cheese to go
with that whine next year on the Trail.
I think you may have missed the point of this thread PT.:o IT's about Dan and his guide. They are being discussed here.
Since we are all human and have sined, lets sweep this under the Christain rug? Greater religious tragiDIES every minute? Sure, I get the paper, but your point seems like a cop out. Sounds like whine. I didn't see anyone blame WF for not finnishing thier hike as you have insinuated.:confused: I know I don't hate WF but the question is about his book and people have choices. Pros and Cons are being discussed. Get over it, move on, life IS short and people are held accountable for the way they conduct their short life. Blah, blah, blah all YOU want but lets not dismiss a persons history, conduct, code -just because you find them unpleasant.:-? Cheese indeed.:eek:
SGT Rock
08-09-2006, 06:37
My opinion:
I used WFs guide for a few years. It had some messed up data, but for the most part it was on it. I liked the lay out better than the old Companion is the main reason I used it.
Now the Companion has changed format and I like it better. Add to that there are more fingers in the Companion to double check the data and data is collected by people that live local to each section along the trail. From conversations with a couple of the trail service providers WF calls once a year and verifies old data, he doesn't get out and see what is new while the ALDHA folks have numerous minions out there getting the latest poop for the Companion.
The money for the Companion goes to ALDHA and the ATC, the Thru-Hikers Handbook pays for WFs domain.
With the new lay out, understanding how data is collected, and knowing where the money goes I now stick with the Companion. But that is me. Hike your own hike and make your own decisions about what to get.
Other than saying stuff about the two guides, all I have else to say is I hope this thread doesn't turn into another WF hate thread. God knows enough people don't like the guy but we don't need a bunch of that here.
Almost There
08-09-2006, 06:53
In the spirit of fairness, the AT needs to update their MAPS!!! Started walking one way down a road because according to the map there was a store there. Luckily, a local stopped to inform us that she had been living in the area since 1986...and the store had already been closed when she moved there!!! The AT does a great job with the companion by checking with locals...the should check with locals and get the maps updated!!!
SGT Rock
08-09-2006, 07:01
Well the problems with the system - the Companion is done by ALDHA which supports the ATC. They try to update their book annually which is as simple as pulling out an old word document and making a few changes before pressing print.
But the maps are a lot more complex and can be tricky. They are not done by the ATC, but rather each local group does their own - often with map data provided by outside agencies (usually government). The stuff they add to them can be great for one club's section or poor for another. And (if I remember correctly) since each local trail organization is responsible for each section, updates to the map are done at each groups discretion and ability. So if say the Tennessee Eastman organization cannot afford to get the maps changed because of low donations and such, then they don't get changed. The best way to keep updated on the surroundings around the trail is to get a guide book like the Companion since they are updated more religiously.
With the new lay out, understanding how data is collected, and knowing where the money goes I now stick with the Companion. But that is me. Hike your own hike and make your own decisions about what to get.
I'll go with the companion next time as well. I think that supporting the ALDHA is important to me as well - good to know that they have changed the layout, I was unaware.
Definately not into this discussion turning into a thread about the human - but about the guide. ;-)
SGT Rock
08-09-2006, 07:43
Yes the new layout puts everything you need to know in the order you hit it and it also gives you mileage data for the sections as well:
http://www.aldha.org/companyn/ga-tn06.pdf
It still isn't exactly like I want it, so after paying for it, I took the digital version and changed it a little and cut out the crap I don't need to know to make a smaller, more efficient package IMO.
i don't know whether or not ya'll heard a/b this, but my 2001 thru hike served as the centerpeice of the AT's sixty-fourth anniversary celebration!:eek: :D
Of course we heard!!:D Heck ,I even attended the parade!!!:D
In the spirit of fairness, the AT needs to update their MAPS!!! Started walking one way down a road because according to the map there was a store there. Luckily, a local stopped to inform us that she had been living in the area since 1986...and the store had already been closed when she moved there!!! The AT does a great job with the companion by checking with locals...the should check with locals and get the maps updated!!!
How old is your guide? I belive most of the maps were updated last year. If there's a problem w/ last years guide, you should contact aldha or the atc and let them know. Think of all the folks you would be helping.:)
Well the problems with the system - the Companion is done by ALDHA which supports the ATC. They try to update their book annually which is as simple as pulling out an old word document and making a few changes before pressing print.
But the maps are a lot more complex and can be tricky. They are not done by the ATC, but rather each local group does their own - often with map data provided by outside agencies (usually government). The stuff they add to them can be great for one club's section or poor for another. And (if I remember correctly) since each local trail organization is responsible for each section, updates to the map are done at each groups discretion and ability. So if say the Tennessee Eastman organization cannot afford to get the maps changed because of low donations and such, then they don't get changed. The best way to keep updated on the surroundings around the trail is to get a guide book like the Companion since they are updated more religiously.
The SGT is right. With the possible exception of AMC, and Potomac, I suspect no maintaining club has the ability to produce a map from scratch -- or even to seriously change a standard government Topographical Map. It's easy to add trail changes. Difficult to change the base map, though increasingly computer technology helps.
I use the map for the route of the trail and for knowledge about the surrounding terrain. Topo maps are updated only every few decades for the most part. Recognize this and learn to live with the ramifications.
This is a volunteer trail. There are limits to what volunteers can seriously be expected to do. All complainers should write to the responsible maintaining club -- and enclose a hefty check.
Weary
This is a volunteer trail. There are limits to what volunteers can seriously be expected to do. All complainers should write to the responsible maintaining club -- and enclose a hefty check.
Good suggestion, definately want to support those who support the trail!
On another note - I wonder how much of a check should be sent to those who are responsible for marking the N side of Blood Mtn?
Almost There
08-09-2006, 21:58
How old is your guide? I belive most of the maps were updated last year. If there's a problem w/ last years guide, you should contact aldha or the atc and let them know. Think of all the folks you would be helping.:)
Guide was fine! Maps were purchased within a month of my hike from the ATC store. These were maps of Central Va, map 3, I believe. I understand that different trail organizations make their own maps...it would be nice if there was a way the ATC could get them to update them every few years. With computers it wouldn't be hard. The guidebook didn't mention the store, but sometimes doesn't mention things that are on the map.
I know hiking up to the road going into Buena Vista, we hitched in, but there were some thru's that were counting on a trailside that supposedly had a store according to Wingnut's book, I know they had to be major dissapointed to find...no store!
SGT Rock
08-09-2006, 22:17
Well technology is catching up. I imagine that in a few years the ATC could even get the same stuff we have in the military now (off the shelf stuff I believe) which allows you to hook a big ol plotter to a computer and then print of maps as you wish and make changes to the files as you need to. The basic elevation data stays the same, all you really need is the ability to modify routes and update overlay information. With this sort of system they could even standardize how the maps of the AT are set up from start to finish including things like scale, margin data, etc. I guess if I win the lottery I would be willing to donate the funds for the equipment and training to get the thing into the system.
Now I'm with you Almost. I thought you were talking about the town maps in the guidebook.
I know many folks are all about the bottom line. I tend (try) to figure in how they got there- the whole picture if you will, and then decide. Same reason I avoid Walmart. Sure, I might save a few bucks (bottom line) but down the road, IMO it cost us much, much more. Gear, Guides or Grocer, ethics, to me at least, matter.
in 2000, i sent my money, and never got my book or money. i've confronted wingfoot about the matter several times and he tells me that i'm lieing. if you want it, and don't want to prepay, mountain crossings at neel gap has it in stock. i've got to recomend the companion for town navigation and information, and the ATC's maps for trail navigation. by supporting the ATC by buying their maps, you're supporting the trail you're walking on. supporting wingfoot, well, just supports wingfoot.
Buying Wingfoots book can't support any Trail he hikes on because he doesn't even hike anymore..:p
Almost There
08-10-2006, 07:14
Now I'm with you Almost. I thought you were talking about the town maps in the guidebook.
I know many folks are all about the bottom line. I tend (try) to figure in how they got there- the whole picture if you will, and then decide. Same reason I avoid Walmart. Sure, I might save a few bucks (bottom line) but down the road, IMO it cost us much, much more. Gear, Guides or Grocer, ethics, to me at least, matter.
Totally hear ya'! That's why I refuse to shop at the People's Republic of China...er, I mean Wal-Mart!!!:D
norfamericana
08-11-2006, 08:27
my concern really is with the check/mail system - its terribley easy to set up online secure payments these days & at least with my credit cards there is accountability. If i simply send a check to a personal account it all seems a bit shady regardless of how many people recommend it.
So am I to belief the ATC book would do me just as fine for planning my hike?
SGT Rock
08-11-2006, 08:30
Yes it will do you just fine. Use it and WhiteBlaze know-it-alls and you can forget your other problems :D
norfamericana
08-11-2006, 08:32
* has accountability
Yes it will do you just fine. Use it and WhiteBlaze know-it-alls and you can forget your other problems :D
Now there is some good advice!:D