This was an interesting and creepy night alone in the Ironwood Forest National Monument, well at least I think I was alone.. I knew that I wanted to get out last night to capture the Milky Way and couldn't think of anywhere to go, then I remembered that I wanted to go back to Ironwood with a little more time to do it right. I did get lucky and timed it almost perfectly and captured the vertical core over the mountain. But even though I captured this image and really enjoy the area I don't think I will be going back alone..

I don't have a 4x4 vehicle and could only make it so far up the trail with my vehicle. So, because of this I had to hike in a way to find a location to shoot before the sun set, passing a camp site on the way, which wasn't strange at the time. But once the sun set that place turned into something different, dark, and mysterious. Also, to top it off my phone died almost immediately after getting to this location. It was probably the animals and my imagination playing tricks on me, but I didn't want to stay out there too late and headed back to the car just after I captured this image.

On the way back I was all lights on and not really paying attention to anything other than enjoying the hike, that is until I passed that camp site again.. When I reached it, I realized that there were other tents that had been blown down and the place was basically abandoned. The main tent door been cut open and everything left behind. I did take a quick look to make sure everything was okay, and from the looks of it the Rangers had already been there, who knows what happened. But, that isn't something you want to pass in the middle of the desert, at night, by yourself, with no phone..

So, just remember if you ever go out alone let someone know where you are, tag yourself, and make sure you phone is fully charged, or you have a way to recharge it and stay safe!

#BvSAstro

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Top Marana Hotel Reviews

Lodge on the Desert

10/10 Excellent

"We loved how spacious the room was! We were here three days and were quite comfortable. The one thing that was missing was a microwave in the room. We enjoyed the on-site restaurant, too. And... the dog charge is a daily charge. It should just be a one-time charge."