During the period when Sierra Club was putting in their best efforts against the Hetch Hetchy Dam project, Muir’s health has been facing a rather severe turn. With the defeat of the Sierra Club, it was said to be too overwhelming for Muir, and his condition turned worst. On the fateful day of December 24, 1914, Muir passed away at the age of 76 in Los Angeles. It was a dark day for many of his closest friends and supporters. However, his sacrifices and contributions to the conservation of nature were not missed out. In recognition of Muir’s achievements, California deemed Muir as an important man in honour of their state’s history. The Muir Woods National Monument in Marin County, in addition to The John Muir Trail extending from Yosemite Valley to the summit of Mt. Whitney were established in his honour. Various notable sites were also named after him, such as Mount Muir, Muir Gorge, Muir Grove, Muir Lake and many more.

(The John Muir Trail is a hiking trail based in the United States. The trail starts from Yosemite National Park, and continues through the Ansel Adams Wilderness, Sequoia National Park, King’s Canyon National Park, ending at the highest peak of Mount Whitney.)

In the year 1976, John Muir was elected as the greatest Californian in their history, by the California Historical Society, with their governor declaring that April 21 should be commemorated as John Muir Day, in honour of his birthday.

John Muir was, no doubt, an influential conservationist of his time. Many viewed him as a “mentor” in cultivating the importance of protecting and appreciating one’s natural heritage. His unwavering efforts and determination in many of the conservation projects, were truly an inspiration for many. What John Muir had done gave many environmental activists the courage and stepping stone, to step up to protect and conserve nature.

Even with his passing, his legend still carries on even up till this day. His writings and published works embodied his ideals and passion for nature, encouraging many to follow his path of conservation. The Sierra Club that he had founded, has saved millions of acres of forest lands, and many National monuments that were almost destroyed.

An active environmentalist and co-founder of environmentalist group called Greenspace, Richard Hawley, praised John Muir and said, “John Muir was a dedicated man that had a vision and a passion for natural beauty. He is a guiding light for a lot of people. His legacy lives on through The John Muir Trail and Yosemite National Park. Conservation is critical and Muir had set the environmental movement in motion.”