Mountaincraft and Leadership

This book sets forth, in an easy to understand manner, the basics you will need to know to go out in the hills, either on your own, or leading a group. It is however, NOT a substitute for experience.

It also includes very little on ropework, which some may consider to be part of mountaineering.

I also own the earlier edition of this book, the new one, as well as its funky pink cover has a couple of new chapters, other than that it is virtually identical to the older one, down to the illustrations.


Scout Association recommended   August 31, 1999
21 out of 22 found this review helpful

This book is the one to read if you are thinking of taking Scouts onto the hills. All of the information needed for D of E is in this book, as well as Chief Scout and Queen Scout challenges. A "must have" for any expedition leader.


Ideal for intermediate or experienced.   August 16, 1999
23 out of 23 found this review helpful

Although the book does contain quite a bit of information useful to beginners, it is most useful for those who already have basic skills and want to learn a leader's perspective on backcountry activities. The beginner's perspective is certainly there, and respected, but mostly for the purpose of encouraging empathy and foresightedness in expedition leaders. Those who already have leadership experience in other areas will find the book vital to learning how to apply their skills to specific backcountry situations. Complete beginners should start with another book.