Antsell Rock -- Route Guide/Trip Report

[Hikin_Jim]

Yes, that is it. The juxtaposition of the idyllic photo and your words, "you really have to wonder what it looks like now," are just what goes through my mind.

I've heard that the fire was less destructive to mature trees than was originally feared. I hope that's correct.

In 2009, I lived near where the Station Fire burned. A lot of nooks and crannies didn't burn at all, particularly in the bottom of steep gullies and canyons. And even in areas that did burn, a lot of trees came back to life the following spring. Of course, a lot of trees didn't make it. I don't want to minimize things, but the devastation typically isn't total.

HJ

[Wildhorse]

That is good news about the survival of mature trees. I hope with you it is true. If they have survived, I think the forest as a whole will be better for it. I imagine their partial shade will give seedlings a better chance by minimizing the growth of other plants that might keep the seedlings from making it.

I just returned from a short hike at Cowles Mountain in San Diego. The chaparral is drier this year than I have seen it before. I worry that it too may burn this year. At the same time, the herd of people who hike there trample the land and its dry shrubs terribly, cutting switchbacks in spite of barriers and signs that try to discourage it. I don't think the word "hiking" fits the abusive practices of the human herd I see there. I worry what a more open landscape in the San Jacinto mountains will invite.

You know, it has been said that we love some places to death by so many of us visiting them. But what I am increasing seeing is not love.

But it is good, nevertheless, to think that the old trees still stand, while we sweat out another fire on the mountain tonight .

[Hikin_Jim]

Some people don't seem to think. Cutting trails is a pet peeve of mine (along with littering in the wilderness).

I suppose the good thing about places like Antsell Rock is that their remoteness, difficulty of approach, and difficulty of ascent will keep them from getting overrun.



HJ