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Renowned long-distance backpacker Andrew Skurka visits Google to discuss the gear, supplies and skills necessary to make hiking fun instead of a chore.

Described by National Geographic as \u201cone of the best traveled and fastest hikers on the planet,\u201d and named \u201cAdventurer of the Year\u201d by Outside and \u201cPerson of the Year\u201d by Backpacker magazine, Skurka recounts what he\u2019s learned from more than 30,000 miles of long-distance adventures, most recently a 4,700-mile 6-month loop around Alaska and Canada\u2019s Yukon.

Whether you\u2019re a first-time backpacker, an occasional weekend warrior, or a seasoned long-distance trekker, you\u2019ll love this guide. Learn exactly what you need to carry \u2013 both on your back and between your ears \u2013 for all seasons and circumstances through a show-and-tell of clothing, footwear, backpacks, shelter and sleep systems, and more, as well as through detailed articles on foot care, campsite selection and hiking efficiency. Skurka\u2019s practical recommendations give you all the tools and techniques you\u2019ll need to succeed on the trail.

Originally published in April of 2012.

Visit http://youtube.com/TalksAtGoogle/ to watch the video.