Walking in the Footsteps of John Muir: Scottish Beginnings, May 14 – 25, 2027

Walk in the footsteps of John Muir along the John Muir Way, considered one of the most beautiful walks in the world. Follow in the footsteps of famed naturalist, botanist, glaciologist, and “Father of the National Parks,” John Muir, as you trace his journey across Scotland at the age of 10 in 1849. Explore segments of the John Muir Way, delve into the history of Scotland and Muir’s early life, practice landscape observation and recording techniques inspired by his work, and gain insight into the formative experiences that shaped Muir’s lifelong passion for nature.

“When I was a boy in Scotland I was fond of everything that was wild, and all my life I’ve been growing fonder and fonder of wild places and wild creatures”

John Muir

Scotland in May is a feast for the senses. The spring warmth is felt, bringing the rugged landscapes to life with vibrant heather blooming across the moors and hills. The towns are alive with festival energy, yet peaceful escapes are found in quiet glens, ancient castles standing sentinel on misty hilltops, and charming villages nestled along lochs and winding rivers.

Your Guides – Left to Right: Michael M. Conti and Mike wurtz

Join Michael M. Conti, American filmmaker behind The Unruly Mystic: John Muir and Mike Wurtz, Head of the University of the Pacific Holt-Atherton Special Collections and Archives in California. Mike curates and shares the largest collection of John Muir works in the world.

Filmmakers heather boyle and michael m. conti saunter along the John Muir Way, Scotland. Photo by Gavin Morton, 2019.

On this special walking adventure follow the arc of Muir’s visits to his boyhood home, connect with the environment that inspired a movement to have nature for nature’s sake and preserve it. As one strolls along the path of John Muir’s childhood past, you will establish a profound connection with the natural environment that ignited a significant movement advocating for the preservation and intrinsic value of nature itself.

Spanning key locations significant to Muir’s life, this transformative journey connects saunterers to his deep legacy and fosters personal growth and contemplation.

A 12-day walking journey in Scotland, Footsteps of John Muir: Scottish Beginnings May 14 – 25, 2027

Reserve your place on this guided walking tour through Scotland’s Central Belt.

Dates
May 14–25, 2027
Duration
12 Days
Departs
Denver (DEN)
From
$5,790

Registration is handled securely through Good Shepherd Travel.

Inspiring walks through castles and ruins

Join our newsletter to hear first about this upcoming international walk in the footsteps of John Muir, including tour information and scheduled zoom calls to learn more.


John Muir Way passport

The John Muir Way was established in 2014 to “provide an accessible and varied route, linking together the finest landscapes, countryside and places of interest” and encourage users “to become more active,” and improve “their health, wellbeing and enjoyment of nature, while raising their awareness of John Muir’s legacy.” Join us to walk in the footsteps of John Muir.

Walking in the Footsteps of John Muir at John Muir's Birthplace in Dunbar
Walking in the Footsteps of John Muir at John Muir’s Birthplace in Dunbar

We are pleased to announce the return of our transformative journey, Walking in the Footsteps of Saint Hildegard. This 10-day experience offers an immersive exploration of Saint Hildegard of Bingen’s life, work, and spiritual legacy. Travel through the beautiful landscapes of the Rhineland and connect deeply with the visionary insights of this remarkable 12th-century saint, while enjoying a thoughtfully curated itinerary designed to inspire and enlighten.