James Mason Hutchings (February 10, 1820 – October 31, 1902) was an American businessman and one of the principal promoters of what is now Yosemite National Park.

[2][3][4] On July 5, 1855 James Hutchings set out on what would be one of the most historic trips to the region, leading the second tourist party into Yosemite.

[7][8] Although Hutchings lost the lawsuit, California still awarded him $24,000, recognizing that his early settlements helped promote Yosemite as a destination, significantly boosting tourism and economic benefits for the region.

Initially, people felt sorry for Hutchings, but as more information came out about his legal actions and the large payment he received, public opinion changed.

Hutchings remarried twice and was an innkeeper for the Calaveras Big Tree Grove Hotel, north of Yosemite.