Appalachian Trail Museum Presents Alden Olmsted

John D. Olmsted (March 2, 1938 – March 8, 2011) was a California naturalist and conservationist most famous for creating the Independence Trail in Nevada City, California, as well as helping to save numerous other parcels across California.

Olmsted patterned his life after that of fellow environmentalist John Muir, with his trademark beard, formal clothing, and poetic and spiritual leanings towards the benefits of time spent in nature.

His lifelong goal was a trail across America, later scaling back to a trail across California which is currently underway with the partnership of California State Parks and his son Alden Olmsted.

Alden is John’s youngest son and has taken after the elder Olmsted in regards to documentation, having made three films about his charismatic father.

Alden speaks at the AT Museum on Sept. 17th and brings with him a small but significant donation to the museum. The significance of his father’s life as well as his connection to Hikanation are topics of his presentation. Gomer Pyles, a Hikanation participant who brought along his one year old in a wheelbarrow, is scheduled to be in attendance.

This event will take place just outside of the museum. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on.