User:Sillyramaa/San Bruno Mountain

San Bruno Mountain Hermit Evictions

The San Bruno Mountain Hermits collectively reference to three individuals who chose a life of self-isolation atop San Bruno Mountain in 2 separate events—first in the 1980s and then in the 2000s. These homeless people sought refuge from the homeless support system and modern society. After taking up residence, their lifestyle began to bring them into direct contact with nature. The hermits would clear invasive or aggressive florae, perform fire prevention services, and engage with local visitors who passed by their hut.

In both events, the hermits’ lives came to a halt when the San Mateo Parks Department issued the hermits an eviction notice, citing concerns of environmental degradation and illegally residency. Ultimately, despite local pushback from mountain regulars and environmental groups, the hermits were vacated after a series of notices from park rangers and local authorities.

The San Bruno Mountain Hermit evictions have been utilized as a starting point for discussions regarding the methods and ideology that underlie the government’s approach to land management and the communities surrounding its lands. The hermits’ unconventional way of life brought into question the role of government in determining who is fit to engage with public lands.