If you’re a nature lover, adventurer, or simply someone who enjoys the great outdoors, then you’ll love our carefully curated list of the 20 best books about the outdoors. From thrilling tales of mountaineering to captivating guides on wildlife photography, these books are sure to transport you to the heart of nature’s wonders. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your next outdoor adventure or simply looking for a way to escape into the wilderness from the comfort of your own home, these outdoors books are a must-read for any nature enthusiast.
Contents
- 1 Braiding Sweetgrass
- 2 The Hidden Life of Trees
- 3 The Emerald Mile
- 4 The Salt Path
- 5 The Last Child in the Woods
- 6 A Walk in the Woods
- 7 The River of Doubt
- 8 Wild
- 9 The Old Ways
- 10 Desert Solitaire
- 11 The Snow Leopard
- 12 The Call of the Wild
- 13 Into the Wild
- 14 The Lost City of Z
- 15 Walden
- 16 The Wild Places
- 17 The Nature Fix
- 18 The Living Mountain
- 19 The Outermost House
- 20 The Invention of Nature
- 21 Conclusion
Braiding Sweetgrass
by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer is an exquisite book about our deep connection with the natural world. It weaves together indigenous wisdom, personal stories, and scientific knowledge to create a tapestry of reverence for the outdoors. This captivating book takes readers on a journey through forests, meadows, and rivers, inviting us to see the land as a living, breathing entity. Through Kimmerer’s lyrical prose, we learn how to listen to the whispers of the wind, the songs of the birds, and the stories of the plants. This outdoors book is not just a celebration of nature, but a call to action. It inspires us to be caretakers of the earth, to recognize the reciprocal relationship we have with all living beings, and to find our place within the larger ecological community. Braiding Sweetgrass is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper connection with the natural world.
The Hidden Life of Trees
by Peter Wohlleben
The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben is an enchanting exploration into the secret world of our leafy companions. This captivating book on the great outdoors delves deep into the intricate and fascinating lives of trees, revealing their hidden wisdom and astonishing capabilities. From their intricate underground communication networks to their ability to feel, learn, and adapt, Wohlleben uncovers the extraordinary lives of these silent giants. Prepare to be amazed by the astonishing revelations and gain a newfound appreciation for the majestic wonders of the natural world. This outdoors book will forever change the way you view the trees that surround us, making you see them as not just stationary beings, but as living, breathing organisms with a hidden life waiting to be discovered.
The Emerald Mile
by Kevin Fedarko
The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko is a thrilling and heart-pounding adventure that takes readers on an incredible journey through the awe-inspiring outdoors. This book, often hailed as a masterpiece, is a must-read for anyone who loves the wilderness, nature, and the great outdoors.
The Salt Path
by Raynor Winn
The Salt Path is an exhilarating outdoors book that immerses readers in a heartwarming and inspiring journey. Raynor Winn, the author, takes us on an unforgettable adventure through the rugged landscapes of the United Kingdom.
The Last Child in the Woods
by Richard Louv
The Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv is a captivating book on outdoors that takes readers on a fascinating journey into the wonders of nature. Louv’s compelling narrative explores the detrimental effects of modern society’s disconnection from the natural world and makes a powerful case for the importance of reconnecting with the great outdoors.
A Walk in the Woods
by Bill Bryson
A Walk in the Woods is an exhilarating journey into the wild with Bill Bryson, a renowned travel writer. This captivating book about the great outdoors takes readers on a tantalizing trek through nature, as Bryson attempts to hike the renowned Appalachian Trail.
With his trademark wit and humor, Bryson recounts his adventures as he immerses himself in the breathtaking beauty of the wilderness. From encountering curious wildlife to navigating treacherous terrains, Bryson’s vivid storytelling brings the unspoiled wonders of the natural world to life.
Not only does A Walk in the Woods serve as an inspiring tale of human resilience, but it also offers a provocative exploration of environmental issues. Bryson highlights the fragility of our planet and the urgent need for its preservation, urging readers to appreciate and protect the majestic landscapes that surround us.
Whether you are an avid hiker or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, this captivating outdoors book is sure to ignite your sense of adventure. Join Bryson on his unforgettable journey into the wild and discover the awe-inspiring wonders awaiting us in the great outdoors.
The River of Doubt
by Candice Millard
Do you crave the thrill of the great outdoors? Are you hungry for adventure and exploration? If so, then The River of Doubt by Candice Millard is the book for you! This captivating tale plunges readers into the heart of the untamed wilderness, immersing them in a world of danger, beauty, and the indomitable human spirit.
Prepare to be transported to the depths of the Amazon rainforest, where the mighty Roosevelt-Rondon Scientific Expedition embarks on a treacherous journey down an uncharted river. This is no ordinary outdoor expedition – it is a harrowing test of willpower and survival. As you turn the pages, you will feel the rush of adrenaline as the team battles treacherous rapids, hostile native tribes, and deadly wildlife.
Millard’s vivid storytelling brings the lush Amazonian landscape to life, painting a breathtaking picture of a world teeming with exotic flora and fauna. Her meticulous research and attention to detail offer readers a glimpse into the wonders and perils of the natural world.
But this book is not just about the outdoors. It delves deep into the human psyche, exploring the limits of physical and mental endurance. Through her masterful storytelling, Millard reveals the inner struggles and triumphs of the expedition members, shedding light on their fears, doubts, and unyielding determination.
So, if you are seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure, a gripping tale of exploration, and a profound exploration of the human spirit, look no further than The River of Doubt. This outdoors book will transport you to a world where danger lurks around every corner and where the will to survive can conquer all. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey – one that will leave you breathless and yearning for more.
Wild
by Cheryl Strayed
Wild by Cheryl Strayed is an exhilarating journey into the great outdoors, a tale of self-discovery and resilience that will make you crave adventure. This captivating memoir takes readers on a wild ride through the rugged landscapes of the Pacific Crest Trail, as Strayed embarks on a courageous solo hike to heal her shattered life.
The Old Ways
by Robert Macfarlane
The Old Ways by Robert Macfarlane is a captivating book on outdoors that takes readers on a remarkable journey through the world’s ancient paths and trails. Macfarlane’s eloquent prose and deep appreciation for the natural world make this outdoors book a true gem.
Desert Solitaire
by Edward Abbey
Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey is the epitome of an outdoors book. It’s not just a book about the outdoors, it’s a love letter to the untamed wilderness. Abbey’s words transport you to the rugged landscapes of the American Southwest, where he spent a summer as a park ranger in Arches National Park. Through his vivid descriptions and passionate prose, he captures the essence of the desert, its beauty and its brutality. This book on outdoors is a call to action, urging us to protect these wild places before they are lost forever. It will ignite your sense of adventure and leave you yearning for the great outdoors.
The Snow Leopard
by Peter Matthiessen
The Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen is not just another book about the outdoors. It is a captivating journey into the depths of the Himalayas, filled with adventure, spirituality, and a quest for self-discovery.
In this mesmerizing memoir, Matthiessen recounts his two-month-long expedition through the remote mountains of Nepal, in search of the elusive snow leopard. But this is not just a book about the outdoors; it is a deeply introspective exploration of the human condition and our connection to the natural world.
With vivid prose and a keen eye for detail, Matthiessen takes us on a sensory adventure, immersing us in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. He describes the vast, untouched landscapes, the jagged peaks piercing the sky, and the profound silence that envelops the region like a spiritual presence.
As Matthiessen navigates the treacherous terrain and extreme weather conditions, he also delves into the realms of Buddhism and Tibetan culture. He encounters wise and enigmatic lamas, who impart ancient wisdom and challenge his perception of reality.
This outdoors book is not just a travelogue, but a deeply personal exploration of grief and loss. Matthiessen grapples with the recent death of his wife, and his journey through the mountains becomes a metaphorical quest for healing and inner peace.
The Snow Leopard is a poetic and philosophical masterpiece that transcends the genre of a traditional outdoors book. It is a captivating tale of adventure, spirituality, and the transformative power of nature. With its rich descriptions and profound insights, this book will leave you yearning for your own expedition into the great outdoors.
The Call of the Wild
by Jack London
Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure into the wilderness? Look no further than The Call of the Wild by Jack London, a captivating book about the great outdoors! Join Buck, a courageous and strong-hearted dog, as he navigates through the rugged landscapes of the Yukon during the Klondike Gold Rush. This outdoors book is filled with excitement, danger, and the timeless bond between humans and animals. Get ready to be transported into a world where survival instincts are put to the test and the call of the wild cannot be ignored!
Into the Wild
by Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer is a captivating book about the great outdoors. It tells the true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who, driven by a deep desire for adventure and a longing for something more meaningful in life, leaves everything behind to embark on a remarkable journey into the untamed wilderness of Alaska.
With vivid and breathtaking descriptions, Krakauer takes readers on a wild ride through the rugged landscapes and stunning beauty of nature. As we follow McCandless’s footsteps, we witness his encounters with various challenges and unexpected encounters with both humans and wildlife, all while he strives to survive in the harsh conditions of the Alaskan wilderness.
Through meticulous research and interviews with those who crossed paths with McCandless, Krakauer weaves together a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of human nature, the allure of the wild, and the consequences of venturing too far into the unknown. Into the Wild is not just a story of adventure; it is a thought-provoking exploration of the human spirit and its yearning for freedom and authenticity.
Whether you are an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a gripping tale, this outdoors book will captivate you from the very first page. Krakauer’s powerful storytelling combined with the compelling true story of Christopher McCandless makes Into the Wild a must-read for anyone who has ever felt the call of the wild.
The Lost City of Z
by David Grann
The Lost City of Z by David Grann is an exhilarating expedition into the heart of the unknown. This captivating book on outdoors follows the real-life journey of Percy Fawcett, a legendary explorer who vanished while searching for a fabled civilization in the Amazon rainforest.
Walden
by Henry David Thoreau
Walden, the masterpiece penned by Henry David Thoreau, is an extraordinary book about the great outdoors. It is a timeless ode to nature, a memoir of Thoreau’s own experiment in simple living, and an invitation to discover the beauty of the wild.
The Wild Places
by Robert Macfarlane
The Wild Places by Robert Macfarlane is an extraordinary book about the great outdoors, a literary masterpiece that invites readers to embark on a captivating journey through the untamed and unexplored corners of the natural world. With elegant prose and a deep appreciation for the wilderness, Macfarlane takes us on an immersive adventure into the wild, where we encounter breathtaking landscapes, mysterious landscapes, and a profound connection to the earth. This book is a true testament to the power of nature and a reminder of the sheer beauty and wonder that awaits us when we venture into the great outdoors.
The Nature Fix
by Florence Williams
The Nature Fix, written by Florence Williams, is an absolutely captivating book about the wonders of the great outdoors. If you’re a lover of nature, an adventurer at heart, or simply someone looking to reconnect with the world around you, this book is an absolute must-read. Delving into the science and psychology behind our innate connection to nature, Williams takes us on a journey to understand the profound effects that spending time outdoors can have on our physical and mental well-being. From exploring the healing power of forests to the invigorating effects of mountain air, this book is a comprehensive guide to the transformative power of nature. So, if you’re looking for an immersive outdoors book that will inspire you to embrace the natural world, look no further than The Nature Fix.
The Living Mountain
by Nan Shepherd
The Living Mountain by Nan Shepherd is a captivating book about the outdoors that immerses readers in the raw beauty and profound wonders of nature. With vivid descriptions and lyrical prose, Shepherd takes us on a journey through the untamed Scottish Highlands, revealing the hidden treasures and deep wisdom that can be found in the wilderness.
The Outermost House
by Henry Beston
The Outermost House by Henry Beston is an extraordinary book on the great outdoors, a masterpiece that captures the raw beauty of nature in its purest form. Published in 1928, this outdoors book is a poetic and immersive account of Beston’s year spent living in a small beach cottage on Cape Cod.
The Invention of Nature
by Andrea Wulf
Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure into the wild? Strap on your hiking boots and grab a copy of The Invention of Nature by Andrea Wulf, a captivating book about the great outdoors.
This remarkable exploration takes us on a journey through the life of Alexander von Humboldt, a 19th-century naturalist and explorer who revolutionized our understanding of the natural world. Wulf’s storytelling skills will transport you to lush rainforests, breathtaking mountains, and untamed landscapes.
Prepare to be inspired as you follow Humboldt’s footsteps across continents, encountering exotic plants, curious animals, and indigenous communities. Through vivid descriptions and meticulous research, Wulf paints a vivid picture of the beauty and complexity of nature, reminding us of the profound interconnectedness of all living things.
But The Invention of Nature is not just a book about the outdoors. It is a captivating biography of a visionary who challenged the conventions of his time, pushing boundaries and defying expectations. Humboldt’s ideas about climate change, environmentalism, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems were revolutionary and continue to resonate today.
So, if you’re yearning for an outdoors book that will transport you to unexplored corners of the world, while also delving into the life of a remarkable individual, look no further than The Invention of Nature. It’s a literary journey that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the wonders of our planet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 best books about outdoors are a treasure trove of inspiration and knowledge for anyone who loves nature and adventure. From thrilling tales of mountaineering to immersive guides on wildlife and ecology, there is something for every outdoor enthusiast in this collection. Whether you are looking to plan your next expedition, gain a deeper understanding of the natural world, or simply seek solace in the beauty of nature from the comfort of your home, these books will transport you to breathtaking landscapes and awaken your sense of wonder. So grab a book, head outdoors, and let the words on the page ignite your spirit of exploration.