Life Lessons on the Sierra Trail: 40 Years’ Experiences in the John Muir Wilderness

Through the eyes of an experienced packer and a young man on a quest to find self-peace, you will learn about the wonders, hardships, decision making and personal growth opportunities the forest and wilderness offer. I have had the pleasure of professionally working with Clyde Pack Outfit, and the book represents his mindset, character, and values spot on. I am extremely impressed, he has re-ignited a flame inside me, and reminded me the true meaning and importance of the designated wilderness areas. As you read this book, may you be inspired to look at the full picture, pay attention to detail, go slow and enjoy the ride.

if you have never travelled the trails of the central sierra nevada high country, this work should give you a reason to book a pack trip with a knowledgeable, likeable professional like allen, who knows his craft and the incredible land over which he travels with a string of pack horses.

A person can really learn a lot about this area of the Sierra. The descriptions are great. It could be very helpful in planning a trip. One can also learn about whether renting horses or using their own horse or mule may be doable. It is an interesting read for people fascinated about the High Sierra or considering packing or pack trips. The special bond between the author and his apprentice is well described and inspiring. Maps and actual photos would have made the book 5 stars, but I understand the cost involved in that! The sketches were appreciated. The author has done a lot to inspire youth and help maintain a great mountain lifestyle. Way to go! Hope to visit his station.

Facinating read. I learned so much about so many things. The geography and history of the Western Sierra. I learned about the the life of a pack station owner. Horses, I learned so many things about horses.

Very good read , Takes me back 30 years. Best job I ever had was working for Clyde's pack outfitters. Most of my confidence in life and love of the great outdoors was gained from my experience with Clyde's. Thank Alan

Let's be clear, the book reads like the Fresno County registrar of title transfers. You would be better entertained and have a better grasp on history if you just went to city hall in downtown Fresno. It's told from the perspective of a new high school graduate that had been accepted to Fresno State. His mother is desperate to get him out of gang life. Ya know, cause all recent graduates that are accepted to college struggle with this decision......It is grossly out of touch with reality. The author made him a minority, for effect. It failedYou have absolutely no idea what this young kid is thinking or feeling through the whole book. Aside from a few paragraphs when he has a rough time along a tough ridge when he was scared. That was it. That was the only insight into the character.It was void of the rich history of Native Americans in the area, as if that story isn't worthy of a nod of more than a few sentences. It was grossly culturally irresponsible.At the end of the summer the young kid wanted to be a doctor, like the author. Yet there was not an internal monologue of how he came to this decision. I guess listening to the author blow smoke out his butt on the back side of a horses ass all summer was enough. We will never know.Buy it, don't buy it, whatever. It will not enrich your life