Nomad, Mule Walking From Bay Area To San Diego For Winter 'One Step At A Time'

PLEASANTON, CA — The unlikely duo has been spotted throughout the western part of the country for more than three decades and most recently walking in Tri-Valley. The “3 Mules” made headlines in the Bay Area after being arrested in Castro Valley by the California Highway Patrol on Aug. 30. Following a brief stint at the Santa Rita Jail in Dublin, the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office opted not to file charges against Los Altos native John Sears, and he was released from custody.

In the meantime, Horses Healing Hearts Inc. in Danville cared for Little Girl, his mule companion, until he was released. Sears, 69, goes by the name Mule. Once the weekend heat wave broke, the mules set out on foot once again.

Mule, who documents his unique nomadic journey via social media, has had regular brushes with the law for trespassing but always sets back out on foot. For those who count only two mules and are wondering about the origins of the “3 Mules” name, another mule named Lady used to travel with the group but was retired earlier this year after 31 years of service. Mule has traveled with several other mules throughout the years, according to the 3 Mules website.

The mules will make their way through the state to visit San Diego for the winter, according to the 3 Mules Facebook page, which has more than 41,000 followers. Once he hits San Diego, he will head to Pasadena and back toward Sacramento. During his travels, Mule delivers a "Declaration of Emergency" to county, state and municipal lawmakers advocating an interstate trail system.

See Also:

• Cows On The Lam Caught In San Ramon Neighborhood

Follow Mule’s journey on Facebook or by clicking here.

Photo screenshot courtesy YouTube