Mountaineers Books
What do you get the outdoorsperson who has everything? Here at Mountaineers Books, we know that—as with so many things—the answer can often be found in a book. From the climber to the birder, we have something for everyone on your list.
Without further ado, here are our recommendations for holiday gifts that are sure to impress:
For the Photographer
STORIES BEHIND THE IMAGES: LESSONS FROM A LIFE IN ADVENTURE PHOTOGRAPHY
From his early days working out of his dorm room and shooting on film to becoming a Nikon ambassador and official photographer of the historic Dawn Wall ascent, Corey Rich has been capturing iconic shots of adventure superstars for more than two decades. Now Corey tells how he got some of his favorite images of climbers, adventurers, skiers, performance artists, and more. He shares insights into the business of photography, photography tips, outdoor lessons, and what he has learned about human nature along the way.
"Corey Rich is one of the best visual storytellers out there. Stories Behind the Images is a behind-the-scenes look that shows you that the person holding the camera is perhaps the biggest adventurer of them all. I absolutely love this book." —Tommy Caldwell
We caught up with Corey to ask what it's like to be an adventure photographer, how he captures his amazing shots, and what he finds most fulfilling in his career. Read his answers here.
More Photography Books
- Wild Shots: A Photographer's Life in Alaska by Tom Walker
- Photography: Night Sky by Jennifer Wu and James Martin
- More
For the Poetry Lover
TURN AROUND TIME: A WALKING POEM FOR THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST
Outdoor enthusiasts understand the phrase “turn around time” as that point in an adventure when you must cease heading out in order to have enough time to safely return to camp or home—regardless of whether you have reached your destination. For award-winning author David Guterson, it is also a metaphor for where we find ourselves in the middle of our lives, and his new narrative poem explores this idea through a lyrical journey along a trail, much like those in Washington’s mountain ranges he hiked while growing up.
There is a propulsive quality to David’s writing, resonant of a journey on foot, with musings on wilderness, wonder, aging and myth. His words are brought further to life by the delicate yet mythical illustrations by Justin Gibbens. A stylish and classic gift for the literary loved one who likes to pack a book into the backcountry.
"Ultimately, this is a book to be read several times—not just at home, but on the trail as well (it's small enough to take on your next backcountry adventure). The poems will lead you to look more carefully at the nature around you, heightening your sense of the magic inherent in the wild." —Alpinist
Get a feel for the book by reading this excerpt, "The Weight of Windfall."
For the Outdoor Philosopher
BEARS DON'T CARE ABOUT YOUR PROBLEMS: MORE FUNNY SHIT IN THE WOODS FROM SEMI-RAD.COM
This hilarious, insightful, and thought-provoking collection of nearly eighty essays and illustrations from Semi-Rad creator Brendan Leonard reflects his wry and witty outlook on wilderness, adventure, and running shoes. With a foreword by fellow writer and mentor Steve Casimiro, founder of Adventure Journal, the essays also feature Brendan's signature illustrations.
For the runner, climber, obsessive campfire-adjuster, or anyone who sleeps on the ground in a place where bears live for fun, this is the perfect gift.
"Prepare to relate and laugh your ass off even as Leonard, in his understated way, gives you the necessary tools to pursue a successful outdoor life." —Climbing
Read Brendan's classification of the types of bike commuters here, or delve into precisely why it is that bears do not care about your problems here.
For the Birder
BIRDS OF THE WEST: AN ARTIST'S GUIDE
Birds accompany us daily in our neighborhoods with their songs, bright colors, and energetic activity. We seek them out, from urban wetlands to wilderness trails, following the sound of a distant twitter or song. In Birds of the West, award-winning artist Molly Hashimoto captures the likeness of nearly 100 species across seven Western habitats using different media.
Each medium has a unique way of revealing different avian qualities—elegant lines or imposing silhouettes, a delicate bill or brilliant plumage. Through her artwork, Molly encourages us to more carefully observe our feathered friends and engage with the natural world around us on a deeper level.
"An elegant aviary captured in ink on pulp, a glorious riot of feathers and beaks presented in familiar natural habitats, in poses that reveal the distinct personalities and habits of their subjects." —Cascadia Weekly
Read an excerpt from the book on wetlands and the birds found there.
More Bird Books
- Bringing Back the Birds: Exploring Migration and Preserving Birdscapes Throughout the Americas with American Bird Conservancy and Owen Deutsch
- Warblers & Woodpeckers: A Father-Son Big Year of Birding by Sneed B. Collard III
- Owl: A Year in the Lives of North American Owls by Paul Bannick
- More
For the Urban Adventurer
URBAN TRAILS SERIES
Even your busiest friends will appreciate learning about new trails to get their hearts pumping with a run, enjoy a peaceful hike, or take the kids for a stroll, all on trails close to home with the Urban Trails series. These compact, full-color guides make the perfect stocking stuffer for the city dweller on your gift list.
Included in the series are volumes for Tacoma, the Eastside, Seattle, Everett, Olympia, Portland, and more. Whether your gift recipient likes to hike, run, or walk, they'll find countless local options for excellent outdoor adventure. And maybe they'll invite you to come along!
"[The Urban Trails] guidebooks serve as an awesome tool for finding hidden hiking gems and pockets of greenspace close to home…. The perfect size for throwing in your pack, and full of great information." —Washington Trails Association
Read some of author Craig Romano's top trail recommendations for Tacoma, the Eastside, and Whidbey Island.
More City Hiking Books
- Discovering Seattle Parks: A Local's Guide by Linnea Westerlind
- Day Hiking: Los Angeles by Casey Schreiner
- Best Urban Hikes: Denver by Chris Englert
For the Organized Nature Lover
THE WILD LINES OF JEREMY COLLINS 2020 CALENDAR
This striking 2020 wall calendar features twelve original pieces from artist and climber Jeremy Collins depicting wildlife, outdoor icons, and wilderness destinations. Each month includes national holidays and notable dates relevant to the outdoor and conservation communities, along with thoughtful mini-essays from Jeremy, and conservation action prompts encouraging community engagement.
With artwork suitable for framing, this calendar makes a beautiful gift for the nature lover and outdoor enthusiast on your list, reminding them of their connection with the natural world—and the gift-giver—every day of the year.
For the Outdoor Enthusiast
If you're not yet a member with The Mountaineers, you should be! Not only do members of The Mountaineers enjoy 20% off Mountaineers Books all year round, but membership with us opens a world of self-discovery and exploration, and offers you opportunities to serves as a champion for our public lands. Choose the gift of the outdoors this holiday season and share our community with your friends and family – or yourself – with our deepest membership discount of the year!
More Options
For the Hiker
For the Climber
For the Cyclist
Happy Holidays!
