John
Muir Tree - A 100+ foot tall Ponderosa Pine in Leidig Meadow in Yosemite
Valley, across from Camp 4. The dubious legend
of Muir climbing this tree is most likely confusing the true
story of Muir climbing a Douglas Fir in 1874, far from Yosemite,
up in the Yuba River country
Andy
Skinner has
taken a beautiful photo of the tree, Moonbeams
Lance through the "John Muir Tree." "John Muir is revered as the "Father of the National Parks." His reputation as a conservationist has overshadowed his achievements as a rock climber. The climbing community recognizes him as the greatest climber in America during the last quarter of the nineteenth century, in terms of first ascents and technical skills. His achievements are especially impressive in view of the fact that he free soloed his climbs and did so without the benefit of modern climbing equipment.Muir discovered that climbing rock provided him with an enchanting perspective of the natural beauty around him that viewing from the ground could not. Many of us who climb have been fortunate to make this same discovery. We believe, as John Muir did, that responsible rock climbing in places of natural beauty is altogether fitting and proper.
In 1890, when Yosemite Valley was set aside as a national park, solely due to Muir’s efforts, the land was scarred by logging trails and tree stumps. With much work and the natural healing effects of time, Yosemite has grown into a wondrous place for all lovers of nature — flatlanders and rock climbers alike. On a much smaller scale, we are faced with similar challenges and hold hopes that this little Kentucky valley, with its waterfalls, caves, and breathtaking cliffs will grow into a place that old Muir would have enjoyed
climbing in and sauntering through."
There are many places, including schools and streets, named after John Muir. If you know of any not listed here, please let us know so we may add them to the list. E-mail me at harold.wood@sierraclub.org