A beloved teacher from Washington state tragically lost his life during a solo backpacking trip on the John Muir hiking trail last month. Harris Levinson, 61, a respected American studies and theater teacher at Vashon High School, embarked on his journey from Whitney Portal in California on June 23, with Yosemite National Park as his destination.
Levinson, an experienced hiker, fell nearly 100 feet into a gully just two miles into his 140-mile trek. His body was recovered by Inyo County Search and Rescue on July 12. Authorities believe that Levinson attempted to navigate the “climber’s route” up Mount Whitney, a path known to be more challenging and hazardous than the main John Muir Trail.
Levinson’s friends and colleagues remember him as a passionate educator who had been eagerly planning this trip for months. They recall his excitement about the journey and his deep appreciation for life and adventure.
Carolyn McCarthy, a close friend of Levinson, shared her thoughts on a Caring Bridge page dedicated to Levinson. She described him as joyful, eager, friendly, and full of appreciation for his life and the opportunity to embark on this adventure. She added, “In other words, he was Harris.”
McCarthy also noted that it was clear Levinson died upon impact, expressing gratitude that he did not suffer.
Levinson was a well-known figure in the island town of Vashon, just outside Seattle. He was recognized for his talents as a writer, theater artist, puppeteer, and occasional stand-up comic. He performed at multiple venues within the close-knit community, according to Vashon Beachcomber.
Steven Sterne, who acted with Levinson in a September production of “The Hatmaker’s Wife,” spoke highly of Levinson’s warmth, joy, and desire to connect with others. He noted that these qualities made Levinson a wonderful actor and scene partner.
Yosemite National Park, Levinson’s intended destination, is the third-deadliest state park in America, with an average of 11 deaths recorded within its limits each year, according to the National Park Service.