As I took a break on the summit of Observation Peak in the Trapper Creek Wilderness, a small wildfire was burning below.
Many times over the years I’ve been able to spot wildfires while hiking in wilderness areas during the summer and early fall.
One early morning I rounded a corner in the trail to Mt. Aix and ran into a bunch of smoke jumpers taking a break. They assured me that the lightning-caused wildfire was out and it was safe to keep hiking.
It turned out they were a crew from Fairbanks who worked for my old friend Dan. Small world indeed!
Wildfire
View from Sister Rock (iPhone camera)
Exquisite blue berry of a Queen Cup Lily
Storm on Mt. St. Helens
Wilderness sign-in
Gentian
My pack on the summit of Observation Peak
Canadian Dogwood
Mt. St. Helens
The is amazing, that you ran into Dan’s old firejumper crew.
Our mutual friend Dan is well known in the wildfire fighting circle, and a great guy to boot.