A Gang of One: Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail

by Lief Carlsen

This book will appeal to two basic groups of readers: 1) ambitious, outdoor types who are thinking about hiking the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail and want to know what it’s like to spend five continuous months on the trail 2) armchair adventurers who enjoy reading about somebody else dealing with giardia, rattlesnakes, raging creek crossings, and sublimely beautiful mountain scenery. Lavishly illustrated with over 100 large photos and maps, this book delves into the psychological and physical challenges that PCT thru hikers face. Writing with disarming candor and wry humor, author Lief Carlsen provides the reader with a steady diet of encounters with wildlife, quirky hikers, and daunting physical challenges.

230 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2011

Reviews

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

A candid and honest account of one man's life on the PCT. Well done.

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I felt like Lief had a Cadillac experience with his wife meeting him along the trail in the pamper camper. But I do not think that diminishes from his accomplishment at all. Shot, the guy is 62 years old and hiked 2600 miles, my hat is off to him! This is the journal of his experiences, I liked hearing about his day to day routine, I am surprised that he didn't have more problems with injuries. Funny story about how he almost missed seeing Scott Williamson and then ran into him twice. All of the pictures are a great addition. Mary, his wife, is a treasure. (totally agree with her about the hitchhiking).

I am so captivated with stories of long distance hiking, this is the third book I have read about hikes on the PCT, I follow a couple of long distance hikers on fb and a blog by Keith Fossett (Fozzie)

Someday I would like to get out and try a weekend or week on the Appalachian Trail.

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. He made me want to get out and hike.

[Brandon Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting book, with a day to day look at trail life and the ups and down of the 2600 mile jouney.

[Daniel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was entertained by his political views.

[Matthew Sedlak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written and covers the hike without getting into a myriad of personal details. I appreciate the "just the facts" approach to relaying the story.