The North Country Trail is the longest of America's eleven congressionally designated National Scenic Trails. Winding through seven states--New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota--the NCT's 4,600 miles attract more than one million visitors annually. These hikers are treated to a smorgasbord of Upper Midwest hiking featuring everything from urban strolls to backcountry adventure through mountains, rivers, prairies, and shoreline. This book is the definitive guide for NCT hikers--whether first-timers, seasoned backpackers, or any level in between--who wish to maximize their experience on this splendid trail.In addition to a full overview of the trail's tread in each state, the guide describes in detail forty of the NCT's premier segments, with helpful information including easy-to-read trail descriptions, physical and navigation difficulties, trail highlights, hiking tips, and precise maps incorporating the latest GPS technology.