Cairns: Messengers in Stone

From mountaintops to desert trails, cairns—those humble stacks of rocks—carry stories, history, and deep cultural meaning. In Cairns: Messengers in Stone, geologist and nature writer David B. Williams uncovers the global legacy of these stone markers, used for everything from trail guides and grave markers to sacred shrines and star trackers.

Part geology, part folklore, and part travelogue, this fascinating read explores cairns from Scotland to the Himalayas with charm, clarity, and rich storytelling—alongside black-and-white illustrations that bring these rock formations to life.

Why We Love It:

• Explores the purpose and symbolism behind rock cairns

• Written by award-winning geologist David B. Williams

• Includes folklore, history, and practical insights

• Illustrated throughout with black-and-white drawings

• A great gift for hikers, nature lovers, and curious minds

How to Use It:

Read it before your next trail adventure, gift it to a geology enthusiast, or enjoy it as a quiet, thoughtful exploration of the landscapes we move through.