The thing that sets ”Oregon’s Wilderness Areas” apart from other guidebooks is the color photography. It’s lush and plentiful.

Written by ecologist, writer and photographer George Wuerthner, ”Oregon’s Wilderness Areas” includes descriptions of 42 wilderness and wildland areas, 41 maps, 75 scenic full-color photographs and 122 hikes and activities.

Color coded by region, the guide also contains information about elevation, location, difficulty, relevant topographic maps and area contacts. Wuerthner has also included historical facts with most entries.

”This is not your typical trail guidebook, detailing every nuance of the hike, including where to stop for a lunch break, take a photo, or place your tent, Wuerthner writes. ”Rather this is a guide to the remarkable diversity of Oregon’s wild places, with enough information on how to enjoy them to allow you to sample them as you might taste the rich variety of food at a buffet dinner.”

Wuerthner has hundreds of magazine articles and calendar publications to his credit and is the author of 24 books including ”California Wilderness Areas” volumes 1 and 2 and ”Oregon Wildflower Hikes.”

He’s worked as a biologist, botanist and ranger with various federal agencies and has instructed at several universities.

The book contains 280 pages and 75 color photographs.

Published by Westcliffe Publishers, the softcover retails for $24.95.

Contact: 1-303-935-0900.