Customer Reviews

Hiking New Hampshire

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4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Living in California, I don't get a chance to hike in New Hampshire as often as I would like. But when I do, I always take this lightweight guide along in my car and in the pack. The best part about the guide is that hikes are described in detail and directions to each trailhead are given in exhaustive detail. This is especially important for out-of-towners who aren't familiar with the back country roads. The authors have hiked each of the trails and they offer pithy comments on trail conditions, the possibility of seeing wildlife and other pertinent information.

There is a separate section on the magnificent Cohos Trail, the 200+ mile hike which runs the length of the state. My one slight criticism is the photos, which could be of better quality, but the text, route descriptions and ancillary material are of high quality.

This is a fine book, with much to offer the novice and dedicated hiker alike. Pletcher's work offers guidance for hiking throughout the state of NH. He has somehow managed to narrow his analysis to 100 fine hikes, which promise adventure into all levels of hiking. While it in no way matches the depth of pure trail knowledge one finds in the AMC guide, it instead offers unique, intimate and eloquent analysis of 100 hikes. Each hike is highlighted with its own map, as well as a chart to graph elevation gains. Also, each trail's difficulty and length are assessed and special attractions unique to the hike are noted. Pletcher is clearly proficient in his knowledge of these trails and, more importantly, adept at putting that knowledge into compact summaries for the benefit of would-be hikers. A must addition to one's hiking library. Ernest M. Berube

The author's descriptions of the hikes and directions to the trailheads are very good. He also has done a good job narrowing down New Hampshire's many hikes to the 100 best but you need to supplement the book with a topographical map. A few times, distances were inaccurate and the elevation changes are misleading. Also, the photos could be better.