SCC correctional counselor climbs to new heights, completes John Muir Trail

November 7, 2025

On August 23, Correctional Counselor II (Supervisor) Daniel Kirk from Sierra Conservation Center (SCC), along with his 13-year-old son Warren and his father Bob, completed the 228-mile John Muir Trail (JMT). Their three-generation journey culminated with a summit of Mount Whitney—just one day after Bob celebrated his 69th birthday.

This accomplishment was decades in the making. Kirk first set out to hike the John Muir Trail when he was 16, but an injury to his father forced them to cancel. They returned a year later, only for Daniel Kirk to be sidelined by a back injury from a ski accident. At age 20, he finally completed the trail. Years later, when his son was born, Kirk envisioned taking him on the John Muir Trail as a rite-of-passage adventure. When Warren was eight or nine, his passion for the outdoors became clear during summer backpacking trips. The plan solidified: they would hike the JMT together when Warren turned 13.

Warren holding a fish from a lake — *Warren showing off his fresh catch at the lake.*

Three-generational journey to the top

The 19-day journey was more than just miles and elevation. Along the way, they painted watercolors, fished lakes and rivers every day, and built lasting memories. Warren, who had never been much interested in fly fishing, picked it up quickly and mastered it by the end of the trip. He caught 186 fish, including golden, brook, and rainbow trout—and even a rare rainbow with a striking blue back found only in high alpine lakes. The blue backs make it difficult for birds to hunt them.

Throughout the hike, Warren stood out as by far the youngest person on the trail. Many fellow hikers stopped to take photos of the trio, inspired by their three-generation trek. On the eve of their Mount Whitney summit, they met one man who was moved to tears by the uniqueness of the occasion.

Reflecting on wellness

Reflecting on the experience, Kirk shared how vital it was for his wellness and mindset. “Taking 19 days off was the reset I truly needed. Being completely unplugged, unable to check emails or follow up, gave me the chance to clear my mind. I came back feeling positive, fresher, and more thankful.”

Kirk added that the experience also gave him perspective: “People often complain about what are first-world problems. Getting unplugged out there makes you appreciate the beauty of the world around you and how blessed we really are to be in America and to have strong careers in CDCR with opportunities abounding.”

CDCR encourages physical wellness. Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Read more Employee Wellness stories.