After living here almost 3 years, we realize that a hike in the wilderness can never be taken for granted.
The San Jacinto Wilderness surrounding Idyllwild was one of the first designated wildernesses under the Wilderness Act in 1964. It is relatively small compared to other wildernesses.
In July 2013, approximately 28,000 acres were destroyed in the Mountain Fire.
Trails in the burned area are closed to hikers for many reasons. Most importantly, the land is being given a chance for regrowth without the trampling of hikers. Plans are being made to restore trails in less impacted areas gradually.
From Tahquitz Peak, we can see that some of the most impacted mountains are starting to show new growth which is encouraging.However, it will take many years to fully rebuild the PCT on those steep slopes.
The reminder of the Mountain Fire of 2013 is always with us but the current wildfire in the San Gorgonio Wilderness in another part of the San Bernardino National Forest brings the memories into sharper focus.
Each hike is special but our latest one was filled with extra gratitude.
As we hiked to the peak this past weekend, we found new wildflowers in bloom.
The Western Azalea and Paintbrush were two of my favorite.
It's always fun for me to "capture" some birds where ever I go. This Western Tanager, one of the most beautiful summer mountain birds, was busily filling his beak with insects while we watched.
The other most beautiful summer mountain bird is the Black-headed Grosbeak. Their songs are very similar but their call notes are unique.
I rarely see the Fox Sparrow and Green-tailed Towhee so to photograph both of these summer mountain residents was fantastic! Their songs are similar as well so it's best to find who the singer is before identifying these birds.
This female Western Bluebird had a 6 legged insect and a big green worm in her beak outside her nest cavity. Quite impressive!
The magnificent sunset was a perfect ending to this wilderness hike!
"How glorious a greeting the sun gives the mountains! To behold this alone is worth the pains of any excursion a thousand times over."
John Muir
The magnificent sunset was a perfect ending to this wilderness hike!
"How glorious a greeting the sun gives the mountains! To behold this alone is worth the pains of any excursion a thousand times over."
John Muir
