A Road Scholar program by John Wallace

Known as the Father of Yosemite, John Muir (1838-1914) made the American Wilderness his lifework. This naturalist, writer, explorer, and pioneer ecologist popularized the cause of conservation – at a time when natural resources seemed inexhaustible. While Muir has been credited as being the architect of the national park idea, he was also a spirit so free that to prepare for an expedition, he would merely “throw some tea and bread into an old sack and jump over the back fence.” The self-described “Tramp” drew recognition for his wilderness expertise from presidents and poets alike. Settle in for wild adventure tales, gentle philosophical perspectives, and impassioned pleas in defense of wilderness.

Lake Glendale is three miles north of Illinois 145/146 junction of Illinois 145. The park can also be reached from I-24 by taking the Vienna/Golconda exit and driving east on Illinois 146 about seven miles to the junction of Illinois Routes 145/146, then driving north three miles on Illinois 145.

For more information contact Alice Englebretsen, 217.369-7778.