Through his personal narrative, Schmoe writes of many things that combined to cast a spell on him: the shy mountain goat, the reproductive processes of trees and plants, techniques of climbing, the habits of glaciers and volcanoes, the curious fact of a mouse being found at very high altitude, the peculiarities of tourists-and much more. This is a book for anyone drawn to the mysteries of the high country.

The author was the first naturalist for Mount Rainier National Park and a two-time nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize.