POTSDAM -- ADK’s long-popular Kids on the Trail! Hiking with Children in the Adirondacks, by Rose Rivezzi and David Trithart, has been released in a second edition. Seventy-one hike descriptions are accompanied by distance and elevation data, color maps, and color photos.

Almost forty percent of the hikes are new to the book, and nine descriptions have been added since the first edition. Representing a variety of destinations across the Adirondacks, this guide encourages readers to visit lesser known locations as they enjoy the beauty of the Park.

Anecdotal asides, observations, and logistical advice are interspersed.

Before You Lace Up, the book’s detailed introduction, is a treasure trove of information served up as guidance, suggestions, support, and encouragement. The approach points to the authors’ lengthy careers in teaching and library science and draws on their added wealth of experience as parents, veteran hikers, and recently, grandparents. Sidebars cover such topics as what to bring, realistic expectations, safety reminders, and “ages and stages” considerations, including hikes best suited to small children. Each trails chapter opens with a list of attractions in the region, including public campgrounds.

Kids on the Trail! is a companion to the ADK Kids on the Trail Challenge and includes a personal log to keep track of your hikes. The Challenge offers free patches to young hikers who complete sixteen hikes from throughout the park. Begun in 1998 and sponsored by ADK’s Laurentian Chapter, the Challenge has prompted over 200 children to earn patches while exploring the farthest reaches of the park. In submitting the form, many of their adult companions include their children’s observations and thoughts in letters that often go on to thank the authors for opening their own eyes to the park’s outstanding diversity.

Kids on the Trail! (softcover, 200 pages,is available now for $16.95 at book and outdoor supply stores, at ADK stores in Lake George and Lake Placid, through mail order by calling (800) 395-8080, and online at ADK.org. Proceeds support ADK’s programs in conservation, education, recreation, stewardship, and advocacy. Review copies are available upon request.