Everything Everywhere Daily · Tuesday, July 14, 2026
John Muir, a Scottish-born naturalist, played a pivotal role in establishing Yosemite as a protected natural site, leading to its designation as a National Park in 1890. Despite initial federal grants of the valley floor and sequoia grove to California, Muir's persistent efforts, including his 1903 camping trip with President Theodore Roosevelt, were instrumental in securing enhanced federal protection for the park.
“Born in Scotland, educated in Wisconsin, John Muir is widely considered to be the principal figure in establishing Yosemite as a protected natural site.”
“Thanks in part to his tireless efforts, Yosemite was officially declared the United States' third National Park in 1890.”
“To save Yosemite, Muir knew he needed an ally with political power and a shared passion for the wilderness. And he found it in President Theodore Roosevelt.”
“They went camping together. In fact, Roosevelt insisted that he and Muir abandon their party and leave behind their handlers. It needed to be just them and the wild.”