September 9, 2014
Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park

As the evening settled in, Chris and I ventured up Glacier Point Drive in Yosemite National Park to witness the Meadow Fire. As we stepped out at Washburn Point, our eyes gradually adapted to the softened light. The granite sea before us shone in the moonlight.

As twilight deepened, a glowing fire line emerged in the forest below. The area was shrouded in smoke. From Washburn Point, the vastness of the fire was evident. Chris remarked that it’s a rookie mistake to assess a fire at night, as they always appear more daunting than they truly are. Yet, this fire was formidable—burning 4,000 acres with only 5% containment. (At the time of this writing, it had scorched over 4,700 acres and was 85% contained.) The air was brisk and smoky. Above, the sky was a blanket of stars with a bright full moon. It illuminated our path over the rocks and steps as we concluded our evening escapade and returned to the car.