H.R. DeArmond has hiked, fished, camped and hunted in the Dardanelles area of the Sierra for over sixty years. His love of the area comes through clearly in this heartfelt narrative. He recounts several of his adventures in the area. He tells of some of his encounters with animals of the woods. Those chance meetings were intense, nerve-wracking and sometimes frightening and painful. His wildlife encounters have led him to a greater understanding , appreciation, and respect for the denizens of the forest. His detailed narrative brings a bygone era in the mountains to life. He describes and explains the changes he has seen over the years. Providing some comments on changes in the Dardanelles environment, he offers suggestions to protect the area and its wildlife.