<p>Expert hiker Michael W. Robbins offers an overview of the hiking experience in various terrains, from forests to fields to mountains. He discusses common mistakes and how to avoid them and gives recommendations on trip planning, pacing, and appropriate gear. He covers the basics of navigating, including use of a compass, and he even includes a chapter on extending a day hike into an overnight backpacking trip. <p> <p>Interwoven with Robbins's advice are first-person accounts of his own experiences on trails in various parts of North America. His encounters with wildlife, his discovery of forgotten historical or unexplored archaeological sites, his exultation at coming upon a magnificent vista - all will be a real inspiration to both beginning and experienced hikers. <i>The Hiking Companion</i> is the perfect combination of down-to-earth, expert advice and exciting tales of the once-in-a-lifetime experiences that await you in the wild. </p>