Chapter 19, The Rescue of Glenora Peak, Chapter 20, Stickeen Summary and Analysis

John Muir is among the first to argue that glacial activity had a major impact on the shape of the Sierra Nevadas. He energetically explores sixty-five small glaciers. In 1879, his interest takes him to Alaska, which would be the first journey there of seven. A young Presbyterian minister, S. Hall Young, who is assigned to evangelize the Thlinget Indians of Alaska's Southeast area, meets Muir on a steamboat carrying mail. They become instant and close friends.

The journey begins at the old Hudson's Bay trading-post at Gelnora. Mountains lie eight miles away and Muir is determines to climb them. Mr. Young insistes on coming with him despite Muir's caution. Early on, Young almost falls down to his death and dislocates both of his arms. Muir saves him...