I’ve spent a lifetime exploring California and beyond—not simply to discover beautiful places, but to understand the stories they reveal. Along the way I’ve learned that every trail tells a story, you meet out-of-the-way people in out-of-the-way places, and the most enduring stories are often about ourselves.
My presentations combine storytelling, history, humor, and a lifetime spent hiking thousands of miles of trail. Audiences are invited to explore California differently, revisit familiar places with fresh eyes, and discover the unexpected connections between landscape, history, and our own lives. Together, we’ll share the way—the hiker’s way—on the long and winding trail we call life.
Choose A Presentation
Hike On
What a Lifetime of Walking Can Teach Us About the World—and Ourselves
The Trailmaster’s signature presentation: a lively evening of stories gathered from a lifetime spent wandering California and the trails we call life.
California State Parks
The Greatest Park System You’ve Never Explored
Join the only person crazy enough to visit, hike, and write about all 280 California State Parks and hear the stories only their trails could reveal.
Hiking on the Edge
Dreams, Schemes, and 1,600 Miles Along the California Coast
Join The Trailmaster for the remarkable story of a solo journey along the edge of California—and the unforgettable people, places, and controversies revealed along the way.
Hiking the Holy Mountain
Tales of Monks and Miracles on the Trails of Mt. Athos, Greece
A spiritual adventure, a tale of adoption, and the story of an epiphany and miracle that forever changed my life.
Father Serra and Me
Separating the Man from the Myth Along California’s Mission Trail
Join me for a screening of my documentary film and a conversation about one of California’s most influential—and controversial—historical figures.
Plan an Event
The Trailmaster Live presentations are a natural fit for libraries, museums, historical societies, California State Parks, hiking and outdoor organizations, colleges and universities, lifelong learning programs, book clubs, service clubs, faith communities, conferences, and community organizations.
Whether speaking to an intimate gathering or a full auditorium, John enjoys sharing stories that spark conversation long after the evening ends.
About John McKinney
Learn more about John, his books, films, and the journeys that shaped The Trailmaster.
Event Information
Programs typically run 45 to 60 minutes and are tailored to the audience and venue. Depending on the topic, presentations may include storytelling, photographs, film clips, and opportunities for questions and conversation.
Many events also include time to meet John, continue the conversation, and purchase autographed books.
Let’s Talk
Interested in bringing The Trailmaster Live to your organization?