Backcountry Press is proud to announce the release of the second edition of Exploring the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument Region, available January 11, 2026. This expanded and updated field guide brings new information, improved mapping, and refined interpretive content to one of Northern California’s most culturally, biologically, and geologically diverse landscapes. Designed to deepen […]
More Than a Bookstore: Standing with Northtown Books
When Northtown Books burned, Arcata lost more than a storefront. For over forty years, this independent bookstore has been a place of curiosity, connection, and community. As we grieve alongside neighbors, we reflect on why bookstores matter—and why Northtown will rise again.
When the Rain Truly Fell: Remembering the Mother of All Storms
Nearly 45 years ago, almost to the day, the Klamath Mountains endured the greatest storm season ever recorded in the continental United States. From a remote lookout called Camp Six, rainfall totals rewrote history—revealing how storms, terrain, and time shape one of California’s wildest landscapes.
California Trees Wins National Outdoor Book Award
California Trees, by Matt Ritter and Michael Kauffmann, has won the 2025 National Outdoor Book Award. Honoring exceptional craft and scientific integrity, the guide celebrates California’s native forests and the authors’ shared mission to connect people with the trees that define the state’s diverse and extraordinary landscapes.
New Book Explores the Environmental History of the San Francisco Bay Area
San Francisco Bay Area: An Environmental History by David D. Schmidt offers an engaging journey through millennia of ecological change and human influence. From geology and Native stewardship to urbanization and climate resilience, this landmark book reveals how past choices shaped the Bay Area—and how today’s decisions will define its future.
10 fun mushrooms to find in the Pacific Northwest
Discover ten of the most fascinating mushrooms of the Pacific Northwest—from iconic edibles like the King Bolete and Pacific Golden Chanterelle to strange and spectacular species like the Bleeding Tooth and Western Elfin Saddle. Explore their ecology, habitats, and cultural significance, and learn why Cascadia is one of the world’s greatest fungal hotspots.
The Evolution of Trees of California: From Jepson to Today
California Trees builds on Jepson’s 1909 classic Trees of California, expanding from 92 to 95 species using modern tools, photography, and community science. With clear criteria for what defines a tree, this new guide honors Jepson’s legacy while inviting readers to connect deeply with California’s diverse and evolving forest landscapes.
Mapping the Hidden Forest
Camille “Cami” Pawlak transforms our understanding of California’s tree diversity through innovative heat maps and range mapping, highlighting 95 native species. Her work reveals the richness of endemic trees in places like Robert Louis Stevenson State Park and supports urban planning for climate resilience, ensuring ecological alignment in tree selection.
Discover California’s Native Trees: A Guide to the Arboreal Wonders of the Golden State
Backcountry Press proudly announces California Trees by Matt Ritter and Michael Kauffmann, a vivid guide to all 95 native tree species of California. Blending detailed profiles, community science maps, and rich photography, the book invites readers to explore the ecology, beauty, and cultural significance of California’s forests, woodlands, and deserts.
Second Edition of Hiking Humboldt Volume 2 by Rees Hughes Now Available!
Backcountry Press announces the second edition of Hiking Humboldt Volume 2, an essential guide for exploring over 100 trails in Humboldt County, CA. It features expanded coverage, detailed maps, historical insights, and safety tips. Author Rees Hughes shares his passion for the region, inviting hikers to connect with its natural beauty.
Truffle Season in the Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest is home to over 350 truffle species, thriving in symbiotic relationships with tree species like Douglas-firs. The region’s moist climate fosters diverse truffle development with varying fruiting seasons. Notable species include the Oregon Spring White Truffle and Oregon Black Truffle. “Mushrooms of Cascadia” serves as an essential guide for foragers.
The Cost of Sustainable Book Production
Backcountry Press explains the cost of their books — emphasizing quality, sustainability, and ethical practices. They prioritize meticulous craftsmanship, local printing, and FSC-certified paper, alongside fair author compensation. By choosing their books, readers support a mission-driven business committed to enhancing the human connection with nature.
Comprehensive Guide to the Fungi of the Pacific Northwest Unveiled by Backcountry Press
Backcountry Press releases “Mushrooms of Cascadia,” a guide by mycologists Noah Siegel and Christian Schwarz. This 576-page book features 800 photographs and details of over 600 Pacific Northwest mushroom species, emphasizing their ecological and cultural significance. It’s designed for enthusiasts, researchers, and nature lovers, fostering appreciation for regional fungi.
Spring 2024 Virtual Class Announced
Explore the diverse sea vegetables of the Pacific Coast in a live, two-part online class on May 23 and 30, 2024. Led by environmental educator and seaweed enthusiast Allison Poklemba, this course offers detailed resources, a Sea Vegetable ID Card, and identifies various local seaweeds. Enjoy recordings at your convenience.
A note for you, Conifer Country lover
Twelve years after publishing “Conifer Country,” author and ecologist Michael Kauffmann reflects on the journey of the book and its impact. His work has led to a thriving business, Backcountry Press, and acknowledgment as a conifer ecologist. Changes in the landscape, like wildfires and climate shifts, prompted updates to the book, emphasizing the balance between appreciation and stewardship of ancient forests and rare conifers. Kauffmann encourages readers to explore and protect these natural wonders.
“New” Trillium in Northwest California
In a paper published in Madroño, Salmon Mountains wakerobin (Trillium oettingeri) has been elevated to a new species.
California’s Great Valley Vernal Pools
Vernal pools, seasonal wetlands that foster unique species, play a crucial role in preserving California’s biodiversity. “Conservation of California’s Great Valley Vernal Pool Landscapes” is the first comprehensive book focusing on vernal pool landscape conservation. It highlights threats like urbanization and invasive species and aims to inspire greater conservation efforts. The eBook is free and the paperback is available for a discounted price.
Sip the Forest: A Guide to Pacific Northwest Conifer Teas
Embark on a flavorful journey through the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest, where the evergreen trees are not only charismatic megaflora, but also ingredients for a unique tea experience.
Mount Tamalpais
“Plants of Mount Tamalpais: Including Muir Woods” is a new book from Backcountry Press that explores the unique plant biodiversity of Mount Tamalpais in the San Francisco Bay Area. Authored by Robert Steers, who has studied the region’s flora for over a decade, the book highlights the area’s remarkable plant diversity, with emphasis on its rare and endemic species.
Second Printing Sale: The Klamath Mountains
Celebrating the one-year anniversary of “The Klamath Mountains: A Natural History,” a $15 discount is being offered on its second printing.
