Ventana Canyon is where we first hiked in the Catalinas in ten years ago.
Since then, I’ve hiked the trail into the canyon a least twice a year.
This image was taken last night (June 19, 2020).
This image is what it looked like this morning. Before dawn, you could still see the fireline.
I decided to drive up Craycroft Road to get a closer look. As the sun got higher in the east
I was able to get this image. It’s a good thing I had a mask, the smoke and smell were pronounced.
(Because of COVID-19, the county has mandated everyone wear a mask in public.)
— Images by kenne
These images are horrible and fascinating at the same time.
I wish masks were mandatory here, too. But in spite of rapidly rising infections, our governor still opens the state up more. So irresponsible!
Like Texas, we opened too soon here. The Governor’s original action wouldn’t allow local governments to impose more strict regulations. However, he backed down after our spike in cases and pressure from the city and country.
Unfortunately, our governor is too stubborn to back down.
Nature is resilient, but I can’t bear to think about how that Canyon’s unique beauty and amazing water and rock features have been altered.
Nature will bounce back, but I fear I will not be around long enough to see it.
Memories of that fire will live on in the mountains for many, many years. So sad!