We drove up and down and then a lot more up then one last down before setting up camp at Centennial Campground which is nestled deep within King’s Canyon. It was the only campground open this summer within the actual canyon. Deep cuts this summer to an already stripped down budget means fewer campgrounds open, less ranger led programs and far less support in the back country. Things in the short term will get worse. But the majesty of the Sierras are a living testament to the wisdom of great conservationists like John Muir who also saw their share of down moments. It was their perseverance in the face of misfortune which helped preserve America’s treasures like the few remaining sequoia groves that still dot the Sierra high country. We are so grateful for their efforts and also so motivated to keep the fight going.