Yosemite: Fate of Heaven

USA 1989 / 58 minutes
Produced, directed and photographed by Jon Else (special guest)
Executive Producer and Narrator: Robert Redford

* Screenings: Thursday, 8:00 PM, Saturday 4:30 PM

Based on the 1851 diary of a California militiaman, Yosemite: The Fate of Heaven looks back on the conquest of this primeval wilderness more than a century ago. At the same time, the film looks at Yosemite today – a national treasure sagging under the weight of three million visitors a year. “The most beautiful valley in the world,” is seen through the eyes of those who struggle day after day to preserve it – the rangers, trail builders, firefighters and naturalists and from the perspective of the backpackers, rock climbers, tourists and backcountry skiers, who come to revel in its sheer ageless beauty. The result is a remarkable vision of Yosemite — past, present and future.

STEVE’S TAKE: This is it. The finest documentary ever produced about Yosemite. This 1989 gem from Jon Else and the Sundance Institute tells a powerful story of Yosemite’s past and present. What’s even more remarkable 25 years after its initial release, is how many of the issues this film brings up remain unanswered today: How do you balance the complex dual mandate of the National Park Service to protect these unique resources while providing enjoyment to visitors. Even though I never had the honor to meet the great Carl Sharsmith when he was alive, this film provides a unique portrait of this legendary ranger naturalist.