Associations
American Hiking Society: conservationist organization dedicated to the preservation of the nation's footpaths. Phone: 301-565-6704.

Appalachian Mountain Club: promotes the protection, enjoyment, and wise use of the mountains, rivers, and trails of the northeastern U.S. Phone: 617-523-0636.

National Parks Conservation Association: works at the community, regional, and federal level to safeguard U.S. national parks. Phone: 800-628-7275.

Sierra Club: urges the populace to enjoy, protect, and restore the environment. Phone: 415-977-5500.

Schools
Eastern Mountain Sports: learn such skills as using a GPS, winter hiking, and basic navigation in countrywide clinics provided by gear retailer EMS. Phone: 800-898-9533.

National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS): Learn outdoor survival and leadership skills in 10 days or full semesters in U.S. and international locations. Phone: 307-332-5300.

Outward Bound: learn how to camp with the least possible impact on the environment, as well as how to work as a team. Phone: 888-882-6863.

Books
Adventure Trekking: Handbook for Independent Travelers, by Robert Strauss
The Backpacker's Handbook, by Chris Townsend
Classic Treks: The 30 Most Spectacular Hikes in the World, by Bill Birkett
Desert Hiking, by Dave Ganci

Magazines
Backpacker: bi-monthly magazine that covers such topics as health, trail news, hiking destinations, and outdoor cuisine.
Sierra: the publication of the Sierra Club, this bi-monthly magazine explores politics, travel destinations, and news, all with Sierra's conservationist twist.
Walking: just for women, Walking advocates putting one foot in front of the other as a way to keep fit. Published six times a year.