I’m thinking of ordering the ATC Thru-Hikers Companion (2003) and would like some feedback from others who have read previous editions. How good is the book, high points and areas that could be improved?
Elbow
ATC Thru-Hiker's Companion
system
#2
Wingfoot’s “Thru-Hiker’s Handbook” is a MUCH BETTER book. More thorough, better maps, better detailed information. I wouldn’t hike without it.
And, I wouldn’t carry the Companion. If Wingfoot’s book wasn’t out there, the Companion would be a fine book. But, Wingfoot’s book is definitely mo’bettah, in my opinion.
yogi
AT’99, PCT’02
yogi
system
#3
you can also find the companion online, print out just what you need when you need it. (thank bono for that tip.)
hephzibah
system
#5
I have used both books but I feel the companion is a better book for the trail at this time. When I hiked in 2001, I found a lot of out of date info in the handbook but the companion was up to date and the maps are greatly improved since it was first published. I would buy them both or at least look at them in a store and see which one you prefer.
If I had to choose one I’d go with the companion.
Darth Pacman
system
#6
Both books are very helpful. Buying the Handbook supports Wingfoot who is a dedicated individual, but somewhat contriversal. Buying the Companion supports both the ATC and ALDHA. ALDHA is a very dedicated group of long distance hikers.
Incidentally, both books are only as good as the information they have to work with. Things are constantly changing. The best way to keep both publications up to date is for us thru-hikers to make notes as we go along and then mail the pages back to ALDHA or Wingfoot. I did in 2001, and 2002. Hopefully, those that hiked in 2002 found things much more current than previous editions, and hopefully, will find things improved again with the current edition.
Peaks
system
#7
I thought I’d give WF the benefit of the dobt this year, I am really happy with my choice. This years handbook is great. Incorporates both the databook and the handbook in one easy to reference book, I also sent my check in on a friday and had the handbook back the next friday. I know there has been a lot of controversy about WF, this year there shouldn’t be any.
BearKat
system
#8
I bought the databook because it was available first. When I got my Wingfoot, I thought ‘what else could a girl ask for?’ Wingfoot has done a great job this year. Don’t cheat yourself out of a great resource because he’s fussy/cranky/rude. Who hasn’t been at times. The databook will be left at home in my discarded hiking items box, along with the gift of West German surplus 11" aluminum tentstakes (2 1/4 pound set of 10):rolleyes
special T
system
#9
:smokin Having never seen the handbook I cant comment on it. In 2000 I found the Companion perfect for my needs. I would take only pages I needed and bounced the rest up in my box. Dont forget a good source of current info is always other hikers.:smokin
Chef