Event Dates: June 09, 2012

Taking place on the John Muir Route, the 3rd Annual John Muir Festival includes Hands On Nature Activities for Kids and Adults.  Food & Drink, Vendors, Nature Tours.  Many of these events are free, designed to promote Muir’s love of nature and his appreciation of the unique beauty of the area. Much of this exquisite beauty remains as pristine as when he first journeyed along the route which extends from Coulterville up J132 to its terminus at Highway 120 before reaching Yosemite National Park.  Nature based eco-oriented events in the spirit of  'All Things Muir', take place in Coulterville, Greeley Hill and Groveland. The day's focus will be to reconnect with nature. 

In Coulterville, the Northern Mariposa County History Center offers a  guided tour to Horseshoe Bend, Penon Blanco, Greeley Mill, Red Cloud Park and Bower Cave.  Nature inspired work by local artists, demonstrations and other natural and historically oriented activities take place at Coulterville Park are sponsored by the John Muir Geotourism Center. Local Master Gardeners show off their green thumbs at the Demonstration Garden at Coulterville Fire Station 26. Come hear Lee Stetson's portrayal of America's foremost naturalist and conservationist, John Muir. Live music with 'Sequoia' is more than just listening. With audience participation being encouraged, guests will learn the history of Celtic music and children will be allowed to join in the music experience. 

Groveland in cooperation with "it's For The People" activities range from Handmade Crafting & Activity Centers at Big Creek Meadow Ranch to live music and a VIP Tri-tip dinner in the evening. Enjoy family/kids entertainment, face painting, petting zoo, exhibits and demonstrations. 

At both Groveland and Coulterville locations, relive the famous 1868 Muir Walk to Yosemite as described in the  "Muir Ramble Route" guidebook. Authors Peter and Donna Thomas will entertain with stories from thier own 2006 reenactment  of the 300-mile trek from San Francisco to Yosemite. Learn about the history of Yosemite's Half Dome and how it came to be. Rick Deutsch (Mr Half Dome) will share his story and take you on a virtual tour that Muir himself climbed

A Nature Tour in Greeley Hill takes place on the beautiful and panoramic acreage donated by Ken and Teri Pulvino to the Sierra Foothill Conservancy. 

Other activities will include a bike tour organized by Grimes Getaways Bicycle Tours. Exhilarating and challenging ride along J132/Historic John Muir Route from Groveland to Coulterville and back. Visit grimesgetaways.com for more information.

Ages Festival is Appropriate For: All Ages