"It began in March, 1914, with a hike led by French up Trestle Glen and Palo Seco Creek Canyon to a spot which has since become the lower motor bowl in Sequoia Park. ... The date set was Thanksgiving Day. The lack of response on this occasion would have discouraged a less determined spirit, for French's only companions on that trip were John Muir and French's 15-year-old son. On their way they stopped at Juanita Miller's home ...