The Road to Mordor

Forest fires are not an uncommon occurrence in this desert biome. Several years ago, the spruce, aspen, and other flora was ravaged by the insatiable flames of a wildfire. The result is a lunar landscape which stands in stark contrast to surrounding foliage.




The granite tors trail is a 15 mile loop which ascends 2,300 feet to granite outcroppings formed by volcanic activity. Thousands of years has eroded away the surrounding soil. Yet, the rocky fixtures remain as sentinels vigilantly guarding the interior. The views are spectacular. The hike to the top is not extremely difficult, but it was a good way to prepare for the more arduous climbs we will face in the next few days.

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Location:Granite Tors - 50 miles NE of Fairbanks