The Hiker's Guide to Alberta

B.J. Busch is Associate Librarian (Access and Information Services) at
the University of Alberta.

Although this book claims to be the only hiking guide to cover the
entire province of Alberta, the vast majority of hiking trails examined
are centred around the parks in the Rockies. This is perhaps fitting
because of all the spectacular scenery a hiker will encounter in these
areas. Peppered with more than 40 black-and-white photos and a fairly
basic map for each trail, the guide provides short narratives on 75 of
what Harmon claims are the best hikes in Alberta.

There is a general introduction to most of the 18 separate hiking areas
(5 in national parks, 10 in provincial parks, and 3 in recreational
areas), which is followed by individual trail descriptions including how
to find the trailhead, location and length of the trail, what maps to
use, what one may discover on hike itself, what special attractions
there are, and where to write for further information. There is also
advice on what shoes to wear to reduce damage to the environment, the
condition of the trail during various seasons, dangers one might
encounter, and things to watch for. An introductory chapter on hiking in
Alberta provides necessary information on weather conditions, avoiding
bears, what to do when you get lost, hiking with children, hiking
ethics, drinking water, and safety precautions.

While this guide will be of interest to uninitiated visitors to the
Rockies, it provides relatively little information on the rest of
Alberta. The book’s descriptions are perforce very short and,
therefore, it serves more as an introduction to what is available than
as a detailed and comprehensive guide to hiking in Alberta.