The Wilderness Adventures of Everett Ruess

Everett Ruess was a vagabond at heart, in search of community, livelihood, and freedom within the Intermountain West. Born on March 28th, 1914, Everett spent the early parts of his life moving around the United States with his family to and from the states of California, New York, New Jersey, and Indiana. Everett spent most of his high school career attending Los Angeles High School in California, also the trailhead to all of his journeys. A significant site throughout Everett’s trip in the Intermountain West includes his visit to Deerwater Ranch, today called Veit Springs, just north of Flagstaff, Arizona. Everett spent most of his trips in the Four Corners Region, connecting with nature in Canyon de Chelly.

In the town of Kayenta, Arizona, Everett participated in archeological projects and interacted deeply with the indigenous community that resided there. He capped off his journeys with his visit to Escalante, Utah, a Mormon community that adored his desire for the wilderness. Finally, in early November of 1934, Everett Ruess set off on another mission towards Davis Gulch, a tributary of Glen Canyon where he left his final marking of “NEMO 1934” carved into a canyon wall. After this Everett disappeared, with no sign of him or his survival except for journals, unsent letters, and his burrows tied to a nearby post. The disappearance of Everett Ruess has yet to be solved, serving as a significant case of mystery within the Colorado Plateau.

This tour will cover five specific sites along Everett Ruess’ solo travels throughout the Intermountain West, discussing the histories of each, Everett’s connections to the local communities and individuals, and the impact these had on the young explorer.