Every important movement has a guiding force as a catalyst and John Muir was that catalyst for the environmental movement in the United States. John Muir was a preservationist and environmentalist. He was the founder of the Sierra Club, which is one of the most influential organizations in the U S. His letters, essays and books were often written about nature and wildlife in the Sierra Mountains. His activism helped to save the Yosemite Valley and other wilderness areas. The work of John Muir was the foundation for the environmentalist movement. The letters and articles in this collection cover a 29-year period and areas in California-Utah-Nevada-Washington-Oregon-The Grand Canyon.

Steep Trails provides a unique glimpse into the history and evolution of mountaineering through the late 19th and early 20th centuries. From historical maps, first-hand accounts of early summits, descriptions of peaks and wilderness areas to detailed mountaineering proofs, enthusiasts can now experience the thrill of the greatest peaks as they were in the early part of the century. Further, in-depth discussions of traditional equipment, technique and routes are a fascinating study in the evolution of the sport. Given the recent explosion of interest in mountaineering, these books are an excellent opportunity to revisit the roots and origins of the sport: they offer a valuable historical perspective as well as important information about the landscape and geography of the past.

John Muir (April 21, 1838 – December 24, 1914) was a Scottish-American naturalist, author, and early advocate of preservation of wilderness in the United States. His letters, essays, and books telling of his adventures in nature, especially in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, have been read by millions. His activism helped to preserve the Yosemite Valley, Sequoia National Park and other wilderness areas. The Sierra Club, which he founded, is a prominent American conservation organization. The 211-mile John Muir Trail, a hiking trail in the Sierra Nevada, was named in his honor. Other such places include Muir Woods National Monument, Muir Beach, John Muir College, Mount Muir, Camp Muir and Muir Glacier.