The story of Wild Country is the story of two strong-minded and visionary individuals from totally different backgrounds, but who shared a common passion. It was a chance meeting between two climbers in the summer of 1972, one a scientist and the other an entrepreneur that led to the development of 'Friends'.
Incidently Ray Jardine has written the go-to guide for the Pacific Crest Trail. I believe he has done it a number of times if my memory is correct. I tried to get my local library to stock it but no joy. I do recall the it was such a guide that resulted in Cheryl Strayd adventure and subsequent book & film, Wild.
There's quite an interesting video about him on YouTube. He seems to have been quite a divisive character and eventually left the climbing scene after being shunned - I can't remember the specifics... think it might have been chipping?