Guidebook?

[Gills]

Here is another newbie question: Is there a "user friendly" guidebook similiar to Wingfoots "Thru-hiker handbook" or the ATC's companion for the PCT?

[Magnet_]

Nothing that I know of. The 'on-trail' portion of yogi's handbook is the closest thing, i think, but should be used in conjunction with other materials (guidebooks, data book...) Someone please correct me if I'm wrong.

Maybe we can try to organize the development of one here on the website. :rolleyes:

[chai guy]

I was really disappointed with the PCT Guidebooks by Jeffrey P. Schaffer. They didn't seem very well suited for actually taking on the trail. I constantly found myself having to re-read certain paragraphs before they made sense. Using it as an actual “guide” on the trail was difficult at best.

There are several inaccuracies and omissions which make relying on them frustrating.

I've heard it referred to as "The Hater's Manual" (because of some of the negative opinions expressed in the book about certain terrain or views which are contrary to the actual experience)

or

"The Book of Lies" because of the inaccuracies.

I eventually abandoned the book in Oregon and hiked the whole state without it. Best decision I could have made.

I did immensely enjoy the Pacific Crest Trail Data Book by Benedict Go as well as Yogi's Book.

[footslogger]

I was really disappointed with the PCT Guidebooks by Jeffrey P. Schaffer.

I did immensely enjoy the Pacific Crest Trail Data Book by Benedict Go as well as Yogi's Book.

==============================

Surprized to hear that about the Guidebooks ...but haven't bought them yet so I might hold off.

Planning to use mainly the Data Book and Yogi's Planning Guide.

[chai guy]

Perhaps other people will have a different opinion.

If I had to do it over again (as I plan on finishing my hike this summer).

I would not buy the book, instead relying on Yogi's book, the data book and maps printed from http://www.hikertrash.net

[girlscout]

the guidebook maps are useful, in that they're compact and already printed out and cropped for you. they're just not terribly detailed or easy to read. but i'd take them again.

for me, the #1 most important book i used constantly was the data book. you have to learn to read between the lines in order not to get too frustrated with hidden climbs, but other than that it's the most simplified set of useful info for churning out the miles and knowing where the water is.

i also used yogi's guide, but this was mostly useful for town stops, where i found it to be indispensible.