BAYVIEW — Gov. Butch Otter toured the Cape Horn Fire from the air and on the ground, as some evacuees returned to their homes on Thursday.

The governor toured the fire in an Idaho National Guard Blackhawk helicopter in the morning to get a feel for its size, and watch the air attack on the fire in person.

Although heavy smoke obscured views, Otter said he was able to watch helicopters drop water on the flames.

“Still some pretty good hotspots up there,” Otter said at a news conference. “And from what I know about fire management, it’s pretty tough to fight because it’s very, very steep and it’s going uphill. An aerial attack, as long as you have the visibility, is about the only way you’re going to get that.”

For the rest of the story, see the print edition of the Bonner County Daily Bee or subscribe to our e-edition.