TRUE NATURE

Hidden in the High Sierra

While most addictions destroy you, Lisa Michelle’s saved her.
For thirty years, Michelle has been a junkie for altitude—chasing the high that only comes at 10,000 feet, in places with no trail markers and no easy way out. True Nature is the raw story of what happens when you need secluded wilderness to survive, and what those wild places can teach you.

True Nature isn’t about conquering massive mountains or logging thousands of miles. It’s about using wilderness to discover your own true nature when things get tough. About the satisfaction gained at locating a 13-million-year-old geological marvel they said didn’t exist. About losing your best friend and discovering that grief has no trail map. About learning that the hidden waterfalls and glacial blue lakes of the Sierra Nevada weren’t just destinations—they were mirrors.

Through three decades of obsessive exploration in the High Sierra backcountry, Michelle discovered that each journey and hidden gem gifted a precious life lesson.

Written with gritty humor and brutal honesty, True Nature: Hidden in the High Sierra tells the ugly truth about what happens when you’re willing to get lost to find yourself. And unlike typical memoirs, Michelle includes clues to the amazing hidden places that changed her life.

"Most people think wilderness is where you go to find yourself. They're wrong. Wilderness is where you go when you're running from yourself—and if you run far enough, nature will teach you how to survive almost anything the world throws at you."
Lisa Michelle

“From face-licking bears to teetering on the precipice of life and death in a raging river. This is not your typical outdoor adventure story. True Nature is a soul stirring journey that will change how you see the wilderness, and yourself.”
Reader Views Judge

“True Nature is a gem that proves the best discoveries aren’t on any map.”
Independent

“Equal parts ambitious adventure, courageous truth, and wit.”
Kirkus

• If you liked Wild → you’ll connect with the personal journey aspect.

• If you liked Desert Solitaire → you’ll appreciate the candid wilderness philosophy.

• If you liked My First Summer in the Sierra → you’ll see it as a modern, edgier continuation of Sierra writing.

BEST EVER!! What an adventure!

Loved how the author shared secret places with only clues. Each story is told with authenticity and humor. One minute I'm laughing out loud, the next Im sobbing. This book is inspiring and something I think anyone could enjoy. Can't wait for more!!

Love for Adventure

Lisa Michelle’s love of the majesty and mysteries of the Sierra’s comes alive in her book, True Nature. After I finished listening to the book, I immediately started to listen to it again and take notes on the unique destinations that she shared. I especially loved the heart felt stories wrapped around each location. I hope to continue to explore the wonders in these mountains just as this author has.