Handbook of the Canadian Rockies by Ben Gadd | Definitive Nature & Trail Guide

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of western Canada with the internationally acclaimed and award-winning Handbook of the Canadian Rockies by renowned naturalist and geologist Ben Gadd. Widely recognized by park wardens, professional guides, and scientists as the absolute "bible" of the region, this massive, all-in-one resource is essential for any traveler, hiker, or nature enthusiast exploring Alberta and British Columbia's mountain wilderness. Spanning over 800 pages packed with full-color photography, detailed diagrams, and scientific illustrations, this masterwork combines a high-level scientific text, a backcountry safety manual, and a comprehensive species field guide into a single, indispensable volume.

Whether you are planning a weekend road trip through Banff and Jasper or embarking on a rugged multi-day expedition into the remote backcountry, Ben Gadd provides the ultimate companion guide to help you understand the landscape.

What’s Inside This Comprehensive Handbook:

• Deep-Dive Geology: Master the complex structural history of the Rockies. Learn to identify different rock layers, understand tectonic thrust faulting, and visualize the ancient glacial forces that carved the region's iconic jagged peaks and U-shaped valleys.

• All-in-One Field Guide (Nature & Wildlife): Leave heavy identification books at home. This volume features extensive, highly detailed sections on alpine flora, fauna, and ecology—covering large mammals (including critical bear safety and behavior), regional birds, insects, and native plants.

• Outdoor Activity Planner: Discover expert-curated recommendations for the best zones to go hiking, backpacking, mountaineering, backcountry skiing, rock climbing, ice climbing, and boating.

• Human History & Backcountry Safety: Explore the rich indigenous, exploratory, and mountaineering history of the mountains alongside critical, potentially life-saving advice on weather patterns, navigation, and wilderness survival.

From the roaring waters of the Athabasca River to the high alpine meadows of Kananaskis Country, the Handbook of the Canadian Rockies remains the most trusted, authoritative, and comprehensive guidebook ever published for Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Yoho, Kootenay, and beyond.