Hiking from Here to WOW: Utah Canyon Country
Kathy Copeland, Craig Copeland
This is my first book of the WOW series, published by Wilderness Press, but I really enjoyed it. It’s a thick book so not one that I’ll carry on the trail with me. But it is GREAT for planning hikes I’ll want to take—and there are plenty of them!
Ninety trails are painstakingly researched and well written about. The details, maps and photos provided will help guide hikers in choosing and safely preparing and hiking the Canyon Country the of Utah. Lots of gorgeous photo as well. Highly recommended!
Hiking and Exploring the Paria River, 5th Edition
Michael R. Kelsey
Paria and Buckskin Gulch host some of the most spectacular slot canyons found anywhere in the world. It is a photographer’s paradise, a dream come true. If you’ve seen photographs of narrow, sensuously curvy red sandstone canyon, chances are they’ve been taken here or very nearby. The book also includes the story of John D. Lee and the Mountain Meadows Massacre.
Michael Kelsey has hiked much of northern Arizona and southern Utah and written prolifically about his adventures. His books provide very useful information and directions, but be careful of using his time estimates for your own hikes. He hikes very fast and is obviously proud of it. If you really like to get away from it all, this is the book for you too!
In case you haven’t guessed it yet, I’m partial to Falcon Guides. I find them to be comprehensive and easy to read and understand. This book from Ron Adkison is no different.
Within these pages are detailed descriptions for 59 hikes covering hundreds of miles. You’ll find trails that are easy and fun for the casual day hiker and demanding trips for the serious experienced outdoor fanatic.
There is a great section on backcountry safety and hazards. And under Author’s Hike Recommendations you’ll find specific information on what hikes are appropriate for different abilities and recommended trips for those with children. Be sure to check out this section at the beginning of the book to get an idea of what would be an enjoyable trip for you.
Canyoneering 3: Loop Hikes in Utahs Escalante
Steve Allen
If you’re ready for some serious backpacking in Utah’s Escalante area, this is definitely the book for you. Steve Allen certainly knows this country, and his love for it shines through. With over forty hikes described, twenty in the newly designated Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, there are enough hikes here to keep you busy for many years. This is one of the best-written trail guides I have ever seen in my life. Yes, I recommend it!
Not only does Mr. Allen give precise information on everything to make your hike safe and fun, he also includes excellent information on the fascinating local history, geology, and archaeology.He lives in the area, and his knowledge of it is astounding. A must for serious Escalante backpackers!
Hiking the Southwest’s Canyon Country
Sandra Hinchman
This second edition is a great resource for those wanting to explore some of the best there is in the canyon country of the Colorado Plateau. You’ll find trips geared towards both hiking and driving tours in Arches, Zion, Bryce, Glen Canyon, Canyonlands, Grand Canyon, Canyon de Chelly, and Chaco Canyon, as well as the area surrounding the parks.
Sandra Hinchman highlights some wonderful Indian petroglyphs and pictographs. You’ll also find good information on the archaeology, geology, flora and fauna, native people, climate, and how to stay safe in a desert environment.
Hiking Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks: A Guide To Southwestern Utah’s Greatest Hikes
Erik Molvar and Tamara Martin
Covering 56 hikes in the two featured parks as well as the surrounding areas-Cedar Breaks National Monument, the Markagunt high country, and the Paunsaugunt area, this book allows you to enjoy the wondrous landscape of timbered plateaus, windy precipices, erosion-carved spires, and canyon oases that defy comparison and are haven for many animals and unique plants. Trail descriptions, maps, and photos provide first-hand information for easy day hikes and extended backpack trips.
In addition to interesting Natural History overviews, tips for obtaining park permits and no-trace camping and safety techniques will help you plan and enjoy your trips. Don’t forget to pack this book before you head out on your next backcountry adventure.