John Muir’s Grand Yosemite: Musings and Sketches

“Charming, surprising, and beautiful. The perfect Yosemite guidebook for history buffs.” —Andrea Wulf, author The Invention of Nature: Alexander von Humboldt’s New World

Every day, Yosemite National Park welcomes people from around the world who seek a deeper connection to nature. A good many of these visitors are inspired by the example set by the renowned naturalist John Muir, who had some of his most transformational experiences there.

In sketchbooks, journals, and later articles and books, Muir drew what he saw to convey Yosemite’s gorgeous landscapes and ultimately help ignite the global national parks movement. Twenty-five of the scenic places that Muir sketched are included in this unique guide designed so that visitors to the majestic park can more easily have their own Muir-inspired adventure.

With easy-to-follow directions plus a simple map for planning an itinerary, visitors can delight in the stunning mountains, waterfalls, and giant sequoias that Muir himself enjoyed, often from the same enduring spot. A brief passage by Muir accompanies each drawing, and curator Mike Wurtz’s engaging commentary enlivens the tour. A sample of the locations featured:

Half Dome
Yosemite Falls
Glacier Point
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Hetch Hetchy Valley
Cathedral Peak
Lembert Dome