“We are now in the mountains and they are in us, kindling enthusiasm, making every nerve quiver, filling every pore and cell of us.” – John Muir, From My First Summer in the Sierra
If you’ve ever enjoyed the splendor of a National Park or wilderness area, you should know the name John Muir. He was America’s most influential naturalist and conservationist and spent his life advocating for the protection of our natural lands. He has been called “The Father of our National Parks” for his unprecedented vision in conservation. And today we celebrate his birthday!
Muir was born in Scotland in 1838 and his family emigrated to the U.S. in 1849, settling in a rural town in Wisconsin. Muir later studied geology and botany at The University of Wisconsin-Madison, which fueled his passion for the natural world. Muir settled in San Francisco after school and quickly fell in love with the wonder that is the Yosemite Valley. Muir built a small cabin along Yosemite Creek and lived there for two years. Having built a reputation for expertise in the area, he led President Teddy Roosevelt into the backcountry of Yosemite and convinced him to use federal management to protect the pristine area. Muir was also an avid writer and we continually turn to his prose when we need a reminder of the power of the outdoors, to heal, to humble, to inspire us all. During his lifetime John Muir published over 300 articles and 12 books. He co-founded the Sierra Club, which helped establish a number of national parks after he died in 1914 and today has over 2.4 million members.
OG Muir
A Lookalike Contest
To celebrate Muir’s astounding legacy and impressive flow both in beard and mane, we’re pleased to announce, Modern Muir, a John Muir lookalike contest. We’ve teamed up with our friends at Alite and Taylor Stitch to offer some quality gear you’ll be glad to have with you in the backcountry. Call upon your inner naturalist and tag your Muir-est angle with #ModernMuir on Instagram, then follow @hipcamp, @taylorstitch and @alitedesigns for a chance to win. Have a friend who you think should enter? Tag their photos with #ModernMuir. Here’s an example of a young explorer with some solid Muir-esque features — can you beat his look? Sepia tone optional. Women are highly encouraged to compete as well!
#ModernMuir
Modern Muir Prizes
1st Place
Hatcher Pack from Alite
+ The Eight Wilderness Discovery Books (hardcover) by John Muir
+
2nd Place
Water Repellent Project Jacket from Taylor Stitch*
* or equivalent value gift certificate
Remember, you can tag your friends with #ModernMuir too!
UPDATE: The contest has ended! Congratulations to the first place winner, @itscurtains, and the second place winner, @jdusty!