Grand Lake, Colorado.

In the distance, Mount Craig and Mount Baldy tower above the town of Grand Lake, Colorado. Recently ravaged by wildfires, this area is abundant in wildflower growth, allowing popular features like Lily Pad Lake to seamlessly blend into the landscape.

In late 2020 The East Troublesome Fire erupted near Grand Lake, Colorado and burned through 193,812 acres before it was contained. Wildfires create top-notch conditions for wildflowers to grow by clearing the forest floor of overgrown brush and exposing open ground to direct sunlight. Ash from burnt wood is a great natural fertilizer as it contains high levels of magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and other important micronutrients.

This region was originally inhabited by the Ute and Cheyenne peoples. 10% of profits from the sale of this photograph will benefit the Native American Rights Fund.