Thousand Mile Walk to the Gulf by John Muir is a captivating and enlightening account of the author's journey from Indiana to the Gulf of Mexico in the 1860s. Muir's deep admiration for nature and his keen observations of the landscapes and wildlife he encounters along the way make for a fascinating read.

Muir's eloquent writing style and vivid descriptions transport the reader to the various locations he visits, allowing them to experience the sights, sounds, and sensations of the journey alongside him. His passion for the natural world is evident on every page, as he marvels at the beauty and diversity of the flora and fauna he comes across.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is Muir's profound sense of wonder and awe at the natural world. His reverence for the natural environment and his commitment to preserving it for future generations is truly inspiring. Through his words, Muir encourages readers to appreciate and protect the beauty and bounty of the Earth.

Overall, Thousand Mile Walk to the Gulf is a thought-provoking and poignant read that will appeal to nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates a well-written and engaging memoir. Muir's adventurous spirit and deep connection to the land make this book a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

Book Description:
Muir was a preservationist and naturalist. His activism helped to preserve the Yosemite Valley, Sequoia National Park and other wilderness areas. The Sierra Club, which he founded, is now one of the most important conservation organizations in the United States.

In early March 1867, Muir was injured while working as a sawyer in a factory that made wagon wheels: a tool he was using slipped and struck him in the eye. This accident changed the course of his life. He was confined to a darkened room for six weeks, worried whether he’d ever regain his sight. When he did, "he saw the world—and his purpose—in a new light," writes Marquis. Muir later wrote, "This affliction has driven me to the sweet fields. God has to nearly kill us sometimes, to teach us lessons." From that point on, he determined to "be true to myself" and follow his dream of exploration and study of plants.

A Thousand Mile Walk to the Gulf recounts Muir's walk of about 1,000 miles (1,600 km) from Indiana to Florida. He had no specific route chosen, except to go by the "wildest, leafiest, and least trodden way I could find." This journal is the earliest of Muir's writings and autobiographically bridges the period between The Story of my Boyhood and Youth and My First Summer in the Sierra.