John Muir Descendent to Retrace Yosemite Valley Hike as One of Yosemite Conservancy’s Outdoor Adventures for 2012

John Muir Descendent to Retrace Yosemite Valley Hike as One of Yosemite Conservancy’s Outdoor Adventures for 2012
Date: February 29, 2012

One of More Than 35 Programs Offered Like Hawk Watching in the High Country, Family Camping Events or Stargazing in Tuolumne Meadows

Imagine strolling through Yosemite Valley some 140 years ago with naturalist John Muir listening to his poetic descriptions of Half Dome and learning about his legendary adventures. As one of Yosemite Conservancy's unique Outdoor Adventures in 2012, visitors to Yosemite National Park can take a step back in time by retracing Muir's steps with his great-great-grandson Robert Hanna and Muir actor Frank Helling. The four-mile hike this April will explore where Muir lived and worked in Yosemite Valley, and his favorite spots and discoveries.

"Our Outdoor Adventures are guided by experts to provide memorable experiences that inspire, engage and educate. They offer opportunities with experts to enjoy the park in unique ways," said Mike Tollefson, president of Yosemite Conservancy. Proceeds are poured into important restoration and protection work that Yosemite Conservancy supports in the park.

More than 35 Outdoor Adventures are available for park visitors to hike, observe, experience and explore Yosemite's wildlife, geology, cultural history and more. Adventures span the entire park geography and may range from highly active treks to the top of Half Dome or quiet contemplative strolls exploring the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

Outdoor Adventures expert guides have decades of experience in the park and create long-lasting connections with participants who see and experience Yosemite's majesty in new ways through the guide's storytelling. Some of the other programs include learning to weave a Miwok-Paiute Indian basket with Yosemite legend Julia Parker, photographing Yosemite Valley's waterfalls, or stargazing in Tuolumne Meadows.

"My great-great-grandfather, John Muir, knew that sharing and experiencing Yosemite was the primary way to ensure its preservation," said Hanna. "These programs help continue that important tradition."

Groups and families can customize their adventures through Yosemite Conservancy to discover unique Yosemite wildlife or explore a remote glacier. Anyone can register for an Outdoor Adventure or inquire about a customized experience at http://www.yosemiteconservancy.org.