This book tells the story of Chris Townsend's walk along the Pacific Northwest Trail, which runs for 1200 miles from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, through the states of Montana, Idaho, and Washington. The trail is in its infancy; a mix of signed footpaths, abandoned old trails, dirt roads, animal tracks, and cross-country hikes that made route finding and hiking often quite difficult and sometimes potentially hazardous. Most nights were spent camped alone in the forests and mounts and the author often met no other hikers for many days at a time. The trail passes through some of the most magnificent landscapes in the US, many of which are featured here in the author's beautiful color photographs, all taken during the walk. ""The appendices are filled with interesting specifics on weather, night camping vs. accommodations, supplies and equipment - including the camera and tripod that captured the gorgeous color photographs included on nearly every page."" - The Seattle Times ""Townsend makes every word count. Readers interested in the Pacific Northwest and wilderness backpacking will enjoy the combination of nature writing and practical advice.""-Library Journal.