The Bottom Line
Pros
- Yearly listing of over 1700 self-guided walking trails in the USA
- Spiral bound for ease of use.
- Notes which events count for special programs such as the National Heritage Program
Cons
- Check before you go - events must relocate at times.
- Use only the current year's edition as events change yearly.
Description
- Annual guide to the map-guided walks hosted by AVA walking clubs throughout the USA.
- Brief introduction to the format for AVA year-round walks and the IVV Achievement Award Program.
- Details for each walk include location, trail description, and trailmaster contact.
- Maps for each walk are found at the listed location, not in the book.
- Walks change each year, use only the current edition of the Starting Point.
- Spiral bound for ease of use while driving.
Guide Review - Starting Point AVA Guide to 1700 Walking Trails in America
To enjoy the walks - at the start point location locate the start box, which may be a kiosk or may be a filebox or tool box. Register in the log and pay any requested fee. Many events are offered for free, or for $3 for IVV credit for those earning IVV milestone awards. A small donation is always appreciated. Some events also have an award - a patch or medal - you can purchase. Once registered and having signed the waiver, take the map and enjoy the route at your own pace.
AVA year-round walks and bikes are held in every kind of locale - forests, parks, countryside, small towns, big cities, tourist destinations. There is a trail for everyone from a difficult trail hike on Mount Rainier to a level stroll on sidewalks around the Riverwalk in San Antonio.


