We are delighted to report that the road to Pettijohn Trailhead in the Yolla Bolly–Middle Eel Wilderness is open, as is Pettijohn Trail itself. There is a handful of trees and large limbs down, but nothing that isn’t easily navigated.
Fire has come through this area twice in the recent past: the Buck Fire left its mark, albeit patchily, in 2017, followed by the more extensive August Complex wildfire of 2020. Newly burned and reburned areas are now obvious along the whole length of the trail, but only in a few places was the fire especially severe. The most severely burned section comes after the trail begins its ascent to the ridgetop in earnest. Along the switchbacks and rock outcrops, nothing is growing in the blacked soil amongst the burned-out snags.
Luckily, the ridgetop itself was spared. In fact, effects of drought, wind, and heat are far more in evidence than fire on this fragile ridgetop habitat.
It’s a bit of a drive to get to this remote trailhead, but ever so worth it; it is one of our favorite trails. If the hike to the ridgetop seems too daunting, you might consider limiting your hike to the first ~1 to 2 miles—there are loads of species blooming in this less-burned section. See our write-up, Pettijohn Trail, Yolla Bolly–Middle Eel Wilderness, June 21, 2020, for directions to the trailhead and details about this lovely trail.
Below is a slideshow of just a few of our favorite finds. All photos by Don Burk. Enjoy!
~Laurie & Don Burk
