Acknowledgments

This book never would have been written if Autumn Oden and Marisa Gierlich hadn’t been crazy enough to join me on my first John Muir Trail odyssey. Their laughter, patience with my dubious backcountry culinary skills, and unflagging good humor were the backbone of our unforgettable foray. Joining us and providing new food, new jokes, and the occasional new socks was the unparalleled support crew of Kristina Malsberger, Tim Lohnes, Jill Eskes, Paul Burgin, Troy Schaum, and Eric Ople. These hardy souls brought the meaning of friendship to a whole new level. Chocolate cake and red wine under a full moon at 10,000 feet is a birthday never to be forgotten.

This year, I’d like to thank the following souls who joined me for backcountry research: Melanie Leavitt, Chris Baty, Tim Lohnes, and Eric Doherty for being part of the Yosemite send-off crew; Victoria Schlesinger for taking her New York City–honed journalistic skills to the trail and not complaining when the mosquitoes were bigger than the crackers I forgot; Cindy Kopper for keeping the Red’s Meadow nights lively; Kelly Perce for braving the road to Vermilion Valley (twice!) and loaning the lifesaving sleeping bag; Ann Cleaveland for grinning for nearly 8 miles uphill despite blisters that would make a mountaineer cry; Jenn Fox and Josh Mangum for ferreting out the best in local produce from fresh currants to toasted pine nuts; Linda Cassell for her high-altitude euphoria that carried us up Whitney even when we ran out of fuel and had dry oatmeal for breakfast. I’d also like to thank Brent Searcy for mapping assistance and the many helpful hikers who gave us rides, shared their beer, and joined us under the stars.

I’d also like to thank the fine folks at Menasha Ridge, particularly Russell Helms, for helping me craft this baby and for believing in the John Muir Trail.

Lastly, I’d like to recognize and acknowledge the many rangers of the Inyo and Sierra national forests. These dedicated men and women are always a delight to meet on the trail and offer a wealth of knowledge. They should be commended for doing their part to help others learn to respect the great outdoors.

—Kathleen Dodge