Crossing Scotland in John Muir’s Footsteps
Travel along the 127.8-mile John Muir Way with American filmmaker Michael M. Conti, of The Unruly Mystic: John Muir, enjoying his perspective of this iconic pathway through the lowlands of Scotland.
Michael and Heather Boyle, producer on the project, travelled by foot and bike, west to east, during August 10–18, 2019. We started from the place of John Muir’s departure near Helensburgh to America in 1849 — to the place of Muir’s birth in Dunbar, April 21, 1838.
Along the way, Michael and Heather stayed in unique lodging, visited fun eateries, partook at local distilleries, travelled to historical sites and other points of interest to add richness to the journey of this treasured path across Scotland.
Adding to the experience, Michael took his 70-minute inspirational documentary film, The Unruly Mystic: John Muir, and screened it at two venues and cinemas in Bo’ness and Dunbar.
After each screening there was a talkback with the filmmakers. This effort went to helping educate and share John Muir’s writings about awe and wonder, and how we connect to nature spiritually.
John Muir’s attention to the environment is shared by many as we face the challenges of climate change. The filmmaker hoped to inspire the audience to find meaningful solutions through activism and involvement.
As if walking isn’t enough, and with nightly screenings, Michael also filmed — interviewing stakeholders in the legacy of John Muir, from members of the Friends of John Muir’s Birthplace to the organizers of the John Muir Way and John Muir Trust.
Learn More About the John Muir Award
The John Muir Trust’s main engagement initiative encourages people from all backgrounds to follow in Muir’s footsteps — to Discover, Explore, Conserve and Share.
John Muir – Back to the Future — A short film celebrating young people’s connections with John Muir for Muir centenary celebrations.
John Muir – Earth, Planet, Universe — Graphic novel created to tell Muir’s story to young people.
Mission: Explore John Muir — Suite of 20 activity missions for young people of all ages.
The Wild along the Way — Short film by a young person experiencing the John Muir Way.
DiscoverJohnMuir.com — A one-stop shop for all things Muir-related: events, activities, information and examples.
Our last stop and screening was done in support of The Friends of John Muir’s Birthplace in Dunbar, acting as a fundraising effort for that established charity.
