Im plannning on leaving in early march and i have most everything together. Only thing is that i can’t find an AT DataBook or Section guide that is Northbound (almost every one i come across is Southbound). This might sound crazy since the majority of thru-hikers start from springer, but i really can’t find one. Do they exist? Where can i find one? and why are they so hard to come by? Thanks Matt Crumpler
Matt Crumpler
Matt, that’s just the way the ATC likes to do it. Everybody uses the same data book. YOu’ll get used to looking thru it backwards, you may even come to like that way better. The information is the same, and when you think about it, just as convenient for NOBOs as SOBOs. Wingfoot’s AT handbook is the alternative and that comes in both Northbound and Southbound editions. I used the handbook, and despite some inaccuracies, found it a very good guide. I know he’s had problems getting books out on time to hikers, but some outfitters sell it thru their store. ATC is very prompt about shipping and their trail information is frankly more accurate…
Sweeper
Have to disagree with one of Sweeper’s comments; I personally feel that while the Thru-Hikers Companion has gotten a lot better in recent years, the Thru-Hiker’s Handbook is still the superior work—it’s descriptions of trail features, shelters, campsites is much better; it’s town descriptions are more complete; it’s maps are much better; it’s got a ton of info on water sources and alternative sources (this will be VERY important this year, which looks to be dry).
The Companion has come a long way, and its editors deserve a great deal of credit, but from using both books for many years, I still lean towards the Handbook. Of course, the Companion does have the singular advantage of appearing on time each year, when people really need it to facilitate their planning and scheduling; the Handbook might be, in some way, the superior work, but this becomes a moot point if the book's publishing is delayed until days before one's departure; I've been telling folks to wait for the Handbook, but if it's publication is delayed much longer, (i.e. later than 1 March) they should be all means get a Companion; it's a fine work; the money spent on it will benefit the ATC and ALDHA, two worthy organizations; and most important, it's available and accessible to people who need it now.
Baltimore Jack