Colin Fletcher (1922–2007) was a British-born American author renowned for his influential writing on hiking and backpacking. His seminal book, "The Complete Walker," first published in 1968 and later updated as "The New Complete Walker," is often dubbed the "hiker's bible." It meticulously covers every aspect of walking in the wilderness, from gear selection to environmental stewardship. Fletcher's detailed guidance and philosophical reflections on the joys of walking and the natural world helped popularize backpacking as a recreational activity. His work has inspired generations of outdoor enthusiasts to explore the wilderness with mindfulness and preparedness.