Adventure Guide to Mount Rainier: Hiking, Climbing and Skiing in Mount Rainier National Park. Jeff Smoot. Chockstone Press, Evergreen, Colorado 80439, 1991. 172 pages. 38 photos, 54 line maps, 27 oblique-perspective (and profile) peak sketches. $12.95.

This information-loaded reference provides concise descriptions of the Mount Rainier volcano and glaciers, the geologic and climatic settings, a brief history of explorations, the park’s flora and fauna, and climate and weather. Described are 29 summit routes, and these are delineated on aerial photos, with some local details given in sketches. Information on round-trip times and elevation gains is provided for 41 hiking trails (with a category of “trail types”), including the round-the-mountain Wonderland Trail. 25 off-trail routes are also included. Also described are recommended auto and bicycle touring routes—both paved and dirt roads. A section on winter recreation describes 35 recommended cross-country skiing routes around the mountain. Also included are backcountry camping regulations and permit requirements, and problems of human-wastes disposal, with emphasis on the “No Trace” ethics.

A bibliography includes references to 42 books and 8 maps, and 32 personal interviews/correspondences.

Dee Molenaar