Torres del Paine - Grey Glacier and the fire

The second day in the park our guide pointed out a fire that had started between Grey lake and the massif beside it. Our trip to the glacier the following day was in question as the boat used for the excursion was being used by the firefighters. We spent the day visiting sites including Lake Azul from where there is a great view to those three massive towers. We were told that the middle one has a sheer face of 1000 metros.

On day three our trip to Grey Glacier was confirmed and we made an early start to be at the jetty for collection at 7.30am. We were collected in a small boat and taken out to the tour boat moored not far from icebergs that had been blown to the far end of the lake. the boat was full and we made our way up from the lovely Grey lake hotel towards the glacier. We took some supplies on board for the fire fighters who must have been working close to the fire on the side of the mountain.
The glacier was impressive as was the additional service of pisco sours at 10am! The Scots amongst us were enjoying whisky on ice which seemed to be topped up frequently.

On our return it was clear the fire had spread in quite a short time. I was convinced they must have been back burning way ahead of the main blaze but it seemed the winds which were very strong were carrying it quickly through the park. Later that day the park was evacuated and as we left to return to Natales it was a sad sight to see those beautiful mountains completely obscured by smoke.

PS. a young tourist is suspected is
Starting the fire and will be charged. One woman died and many buildings were destroyed. It takes years for the beech forest to regenerate. We saw places affected by fire about 20 years ago and the trees are about 4 ft high. The park has local deer that are a vulnerable species so that is another concern. It will cost lots of jobs too and many tourists will be making other travel plans as a result of the fire