View Full Version : guidebooks
earthbound
10-04-2007, 01:14
What are the main guidebooks that people take on their thru-hike? I think I'm getting confused by people using different names for the same thing, so I'm seeking some clarification. If someone could list the books (companion, data book, ect) and if it goes by other names and what is in the book that would be really helpful. Thanks
Appalachian Tater
10-04-2007, 01:34
A.T. Thru-Hiker's Companion (ALDHA Companion)
http://www.aldha.org/comp_pdf.htm
Appalachian Trail Data Book (Data Book)
https://www.atctrailstore.org/catalog/iteminfo.cfm?itemid=544&compid=1
WhiteBlaze AT Database
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?p=340867
The Thru-Hiker's Handbook (Wingfoot, Wingnut)
http://www.trailplace.com/farewell/hb/hb_2008edition.html
There is also a whole assortment of other more detailed guides and maps, mostly by state:
https://www.atctrailstore.org/catalog/iteminfo.cfm?itemid=209&compid=1
https://www.atctrailstore.org/catalog/itemlist.cfm?atcmem=1&catid=42&pcatid=0&compid=1
The links all give access to a good description of the contents if not the actual contents, except for Wingfoot's guide, which someone else will have to describe and which you order at your own risk as it is in transition. There may be other newly-published books for 2008 but these are the established ones.
LIhikers
10-04-2007, 05:41
As a section hiker I've been using The Thru-Hiker's Handbook. Since it's future is in doubt right now I don't know what I'll use from now on.
SGT Rock
10-04-2007, 05:59
You can check out the format of the Companion and what is in it to make a decision simply by going here: http://aldha.org/comp_pdf.htm
It meets most of your needs.
I'll put in a plug for the ALDHA guide. The PDF version is free for the downloading. It's got all you need to know about facilities off-trail. Great for section hikers 'cuz you can print and take along just the section you need.
warraghiyagey
10-04-2007, 11:10
I like the Databook. Light, compact with all the necessary information to make it the length of the trail. Also doubles as a note reference for my journal.:)
earthbound
10-04-2007, 12:14
Thanks for the info! When approximately do the 2008 editions come out?
LIhikers
10-04-2007, 18:56
I'll put in a plug for the ALDHA guide. The PDF version is free for the downloading. It's got all you need to know about facilities off-trail. Great for section hikers 'cuz you can print and take along just the section you need.
I know ALDHA makes it available for free but if I decide to use it I'd get the hard copy and pay for it. I like a free gift as much as the next guy but I really like hiking too and don't mind paying for what I use that supports the greater hiking community.
I know ALDHA makes it available for free but if I decide to use it I'd get the hard copy and pay for it. I like a free gift as much as the next guy but I really like hiking too and don't mind paying for what I use that supports the greater hiking community.
Yeah, I've got the hardcopy version, too. It's not entirely about the $$$. It's about the pounds and ounces.
If I took it on a long hike, I'd be ripping "used" pages out as I go. I don't like treating books that way. With the PDF, I just take the pages I need for that section. Saves a good deal of weight.
Blissful
10-04-2007, 19:37
We used three of the ones mentioned. Wb database. ALDHA. And the Wingfoot book. We much rather preferred the ALDHA book (Thru Hiker's companion). The others had some errors, etc. And while I did use the 2006 print out of ALDHA data when our book was lost in PA, I think having the most up-to-date version for a thru is a good idea. Lots of things are changing next year - esp with hostels closing and new ones opening.
The ATC data book is good for those on the homefront to keep track of where you are. I thought it insufficient for our needs - like data on shelters, towns, etc.