My route up through Fall Creek and onto #159 provided constant reminders of what once was. Still standing are large sections of green healthy timber only to be shadowed by the charred remains of a previously thriving landscape…. I remind myself that fire is a natural cycle and vibrant trees will return … some day.
Eastern view
West view (Prairie)
Cresting the summit, I am shocked to see the landscape as it is today … I believe that last time I passed through this section the view was much different.
It is obvious that the State Dept of Lands has been clearing out the burned timber. While the area looks like it has been subject to a nuclear blast, I’m glad to see that there is some proactive management of the area…. hopefully we will see tree growth within this area a bit sooner…. although it appears to have burned hot and might take some time for the soil to recover enough to actually support new tree growth.
House Mountain in the background
Passing through the burn and through Prairie I notice a dark mass of clouds heading my way from the Owyhee’s … luck has been with me today in avoiding any weather, but this dark front has me concerned since I am riding directly towards it’s path … rain is ok, but lightning …. no thanks!
I decide to double time the next 10 miles back to the truck … afterburners on!
South Fork Boise River Canyon
Even with a dark sky I felt obligated to stop at this view point … I always stop and snap a pic …usually traveling the opposite direction as the scene is always different pending sky, light, season, fires, etc …
Parting shot
Great day of riding … made it through a few areas I had not visited in years. My timing back to the truck was perfect. Right about the time the bike was loaded the sky darkened and thunder started to roll …. rain gear still securely stowed in my OBR ADV Gear 38l ADV Saddlebags.
Days mileage – 150 miles