Sweetwater - 5 months after the fires

This is a ride report that really needs few words. It was so beautiful, I cried. So without further ado, here is my ride. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

It's been about five months since the San Diego fires. I went out to Sweetwater Reservoir to climb Mama Miguel and see what effect the winter rains and spring sunshine had on the mountain. I was stunned. The regenerative powers of nature never cease to amaze me...

Mt Miguel in the distance, from the top of Mama Miguel, March 2008.

I'd never seen the aftermath of a forest fire...

For comparison, I'm posting my photos from October alongside recent ones taken at about the same spot.

Oct 2007 - residence at the edge of the flames. Any lands that are still golden were not burned in the fires. Mar 2008

Oct 2007 - bird overcome by smoke
Mar 2008 - birds hear me coming and take to flight

Oct 2007 - hard-fought battle by the powerplant Mar 2008

Oct 2007 Mar 2008

Oct 2007 Mar 2008

Oct 2007 Mar 2008 (follow the trail up the hill - it's the same spot)

Oct 2007 Mar 2008

Oct 2007 Mar 2008 (yes, same spot)

Oct 2007 - the summit Mar 2008

Oct 2007 Mar 2008
Oct 2007 Mar 2008
Oct 2007 Mar 2008
Oct 2007 Mar 2008

This report is dedicated to the firefighters and others who fought for the Reservior, our homes, and all we hold dear. Thank you.