The Appalachian Trail Conservancy and the Appalachian Long Distance Hikers Association collaborate on this guide especially designed for potential thru-hikers. It gives them the basic information for a five- to six-month trek in the woods, at a reasonable price, but also leaves 'space' for the adventure of finding out the extras for themselves.This basic information concentrates on services and food in towns and shelter and water locations on the trail, with a little oddball history slipped in here and there.With research by more than three dozen thru-hiker volunteers in 14 states, backed by the first-hand information of the Trail's volunteer and staff maintainers and managers, the 'Companion' includes extensive tabular information from the 2009 'A.T. Data Book'.Sized for easy packing in a quart-sized resealable baggie.Purchased mainly by current thru-hikers, it is also sought out by section-hikers and the top Appalachian Trail customer group: dreamers.