Summary
"The Last Season," by Eric Blehm, chronicles the life and mysterious disappearance of Randy Morgenson, a dedicated backcountry ranger in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. For 28 years, Morgenson quietly served as a guardian of the High Sierra, becoming a legend among his peers. The book delves into his deep connection with the wilderness, his personal struggles, and the exhaustive search that followed his vanishing in July 1996.
The narrative begins by introducing Randy Morgenson, highlighting his profound knowledge of the Sierra Nevada and his unique approach to wilderness stewardship. It explores his early life in Yosemite, influenced by his father, Dana Morgenson, a naturalist and photographer, and his deep-rooted respect for nature. As the story unfolds, Blehm paints a portrait of a complex individual, a man torn between his love for the mountains and the demands of personal relationships.
The book meticulously details the extensive search-and-rescue operation launched after Morgenson's disappearance, involving numerous personnel, helicopters, and dog teams. It portrays the emotional toll on his fellow rangers, friends, and family as they grappled with uncertainty and the daunting task of searching a vast and rugged terrain. As the search wears on, Blehm introduces key figures in Morgenson's life, including his wife, Judi, his former lover, Lo Lyness, and his close friend and mentor, Alden Nash. Each individual provides unique insights into Morgenson's character and the events leading up to his disappearance.
As the search efforts are scaled back and ultimately called off without finding Randy's body, Blehm explores the aftermath and the lingering questions surrounding his fate. He delves into the various theories surrounding his disappearance, including accident, suicide, and foul play, examining the evidence and personal accounts that support each possibility. The narrative also follows Judi Morgenson's difficult journey to obtain death benefits for Randy, facing bureaucratic obstacles and legal challenges in the absence of concrete proof.
Years later, in 2001, the discovery of human remains and personal belongings in a remote gorge of Kings Canyon reignites the investigation and brings a sense of closure to the mystery. The book culminates with an emotional tribute to Randy Morgenson, as his name is added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. "The Last Season" is a compelling exploration of wilderness, human nature, and the enduring power of the mountains to shape and claim those who venture into their embrace.