San Jacinto Sunset

 

Saturday was special throughout California. It was particularly so for those lucky few camping at Lake Hemet in Southern California’s San Jacinto Mountains.

The Golden Hour seemed to be an all-day affair at Lake Hemet Campgrounds and nearby Idyllwild with the low angle of autumn light warming every scene from sunrise to sunset.

Bald eagles perched and white pelicans preened beside the lake. Anglers searched for fish the birds hadn’t caught. Campers lounged by their campsites enjoying a clement day or walked the autumn woods.

At day’s end, one of California’s most magical sunsets painted the western sky with intense purple, red, orange, pink, turquoise and gold.

Alena Nicholas was there to record it.