What Is Today's Wingfoot

[RITBlake]

When I thru hiked in 2005, the Wingfoot guidebook was basically universally accepted as the go to guidebook for the AT.

I believe Wingfoot phased out updating the guidebook in recent years so I wonder, what is today's 'go to' guidebook for the AT?

[Cookerhiker]

Use the ALDHA Companion

[Lyle]

I prefer the AT Guide, by Awol.

Wingfoot sold out the Thru-Hiker's Handbook quite a few years ago. It was maintained and published for a while, but lost it's following.

In the 2011 edition of the AT Guide, there was a note on the cover that it included data from the Thru-Hiker's Handbook, so I assume Awol bought the rights, or has a gentleman's agreement.

http://www.theatguide.com/

The AT Guide, comes in your choice of northbound, southbound, and bound or loose-leaf. Options are good. Plus it incorporates a profile map with the data spread and has more town maps I believe.

It does not contain as much "background" or "human interest" info as the Companion.

[Papa D]

I like the companion pages - - maybe just because it's what I have and I'm used to it.

[ATSeamstress]

According to Trailplace.com, the Handbook merged with AWOL's AT guide starting in 2011.

[RITBlake]

Thanks guys.

[Kerosene]

Another vote for Awol's AT Guide.

[Chaco Taco]

ALDHA Companion

[Astro]

I have used both and definitely prefer AWOL's AT Guide. With the AT Guide's visual representation of elevations, it allows me to even not worry about carrying maps. I know of people switching to AWOL's AT Guide, but have never heard of any switching the other way.

[max patch]

With the AT Guide's visual representation of elevations, it allows me to even not worry about carrying maps.

Having pictures of ups and downs isn't the reason to carry maps.

[k2basecamp]

Speaking of Wingfoot. What's he doing these days ?

[max patch]

Speaking of Wingfoot. What's he doing these days ?

He is engaged in Biblical studies and just recently had his latest book published:

http://www.amazon.com/Lifting-Veil-B...4858500&sr=1-2

[Winds]

I am new - to the concept of planning an A.T. thru-hike.
So I bought all the guides, some old as well.
And I bought many other books.

As for amount of data, simple to understand layout for easy comprehension - The 2012 A.T. Guide really stands out.

[Cookerhiker]

I like AWOL and I like his guide. I also like to support ALDHA and ATC, hence my recent purchase of the Companion which has been vastly improved in the last 5 years, thanks to Sly and the dedicated volunteers.

[Chaco Taco]

I have used both and definitely prefer AWOL's AT Guide. With the AT Guide's visual representation of elevations, it allows me to even not worry about carrying maps. I know of people switching to AWOL's AT Guide, but have never heard of any switching the other way.

I carried App Pages, 1st edition and used the AT Guide for a year. I became involved with the ALDHA Companion and actually support both books. I think there is such a thing as too much info. The AT guide takes away the element of surprise. I hate profiles, cannot stand them!

[on_the_GOEZ]

+1 for AT guide. The companion has better "stories," though (history or folklore of the area) The Guide has better service references, imo.