When the JMT Was Just Three Years Old

As thru-hikers throughout California anxiously await enough snow to melt to begin the dream fulfilling trek between Yosemite Valley and Mt. Whitney, here’s a look at the John Muir Trail when it was just theee years old.

Shot in 1941 by William Albee, this film showcases he and his family’s journey over the legendary route. We meet Albee, his wife Ruth and nine and six year olds Bill and Jo-Evelyn out in the high country supported only by a pack of mules. Hollywood magic? Maybe. But the children’s abilities alone are remarkable. Also worth mentioning, the size of Lyell Glacier. It’s deterioration in the last seventy years is astonishing.

Thanks to San Francisco History Center and California Revealed for the film.

Have a great weekend!

Update 6/20/19: A previous version of this article referenced the film being created in 1947, nine years after the John Muir Trail was established. A community member of High Sierra Topix found, among other intersting facts about the Albees, that this was shot in 1941. Thanks, Mike!