I think that I cannot preserve my health and spirits, unless I spend four hours a day at least — and it is commonly more than that — sauntering through the woods and over the hills and fields, absolutely free from all worldly engagements. – Henry David Thoreau

Only the explorer of steep and narrow trails inaccessible to cattle makes acquaintance with flowers in a grazing country. The large scale of all the physical features of California tends to monotony of vegetable life. The same trees cover miles of country. Only those who climb find variety. – Isabella G. Oakley, “Santa Barbara of Today,” in Sunset, May 1904

Who that knows the trail from Mill Valley to Bolinas, by way of Willow Camp, can ever forget the enchanting beauty of the panorama that unfolds before the vision? The tenderest tenderfoot forgets the toil of climbing in contemplation of its delights and surprises. – Eufina C. Tompkins, “Story of Two California Artists,” in Sunset, June 1904