https://www.wildmoments.net/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/southwest/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/continental-divide/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/pacific-coast/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/desert-oasis/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/east-coast/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/human-handprint/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/classics/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/canyon-vistas/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/tips-tutorials/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/photographing-streams-and-creeks/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/graduatedfilters/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/new_releases/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/urban_landscape_photogrpahy/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/man_in_nature/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/web-sharpening/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/big-bend/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/slot_canyon_tips/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/5-tips-for-capturing-the-landscape/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/book_gallery/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/kauai/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/ai_oil_paintings/ https://www.wildmoments.net/gallery/south_dakota/ https://www.wildmoments.net/page/about/ https://www.wildmoments.net/page/prints/ https://www.wildmoments.net/page/tour_faq/ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/spring-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Spearfish-Creek-1-blend-Michael-Greene-sharpened.jpg A Place of Respite A spectacular confluence of Spearfish Creek in Spearfish Canyon located in the Black Hills National Forest pictured here in peak spring colors. This pristine and fragile area is located near Sturgis, South Dakota. Spearfish Canyon, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/wall-drugstore/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7199992-Edit-badlands-sunrise-Michael-Greene-sharpened.jpg The Waking Storm A spectacular sunrise lights up the badlands near Dillon Pass in Badlands National Park outside of Wall, South Dakota. Badlands National Park, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/yellow-mounds/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7199985-5am-badlands-Michael-Greene-sharpened.jpg Not With the Naked Eye Early dawn light illuminates the colorful yellow-mounded badlands near Dillon Pass in the Badlands National Park. Dillon Pass is located in the northern section of the park near Wall, South Dakota. Badlands National Park, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/city-of-the-buttes/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7199978-twilight-Badlands-NP-Michael-Greene-sharpened.jpg Blue Hour Buttes Blue hour at Badlands National Park at an iconic location near Panorama Point. near the Cedar Pass entrance to the park in Western South Dakota near Rapid City. Badlands National Park, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/evening-impressions/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7199973-sunset-evening-light-Badlands-Natonal-Park-Michael-Greene-sharpened.jpg Evening Impressions A colorful sunset illuminates the unique shapes and colors of Badlands National Park, Badlands is located near the famous Wall Drugstore in Southwestern South Dakota. Badlands National Park, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/shape-town/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7199959-Edit-Badlands-sunset-light-Michael-Greene-sharpened.jpg Shape Town Parade Evening light accents the geologic contours and shapes of the Big Badlands Overlook located near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center about an hour from Rapid City, SD. Badlands National Park, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/blue-night/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7199948-Michael-Greene-Badlands-2-sharpened.jpg A Subtle Shade of Blue Storm light subtely illuminates the contours of the Badlands on a stormy spring evening in Badlands National Park located near Wall, South Dakota. Badlands National Park, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sylvan-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7190183-Edit-sylvan-lake-1-flatcompressed-cgi-2x-sharpened.jpg Softly Ever After Gorgeous evening (clearing storm) light illuminates the boulder-studded landscape around Sylvan Lake; the crown jewel of Custer State Park located in the Black Hills National Forest near Rapid City, South Dakota. Custer State Park, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/pink-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7190139-Edit-black-hills-sunset-Michael-Greene-sharpened.jpg Skyline Sunet A spectacular sunset in the Black Hills National Forest with the Needles pictured in the foreground on a stormy spring day. Custer State Park, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rapid-city/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7190137-Edit-Buffalo-Michael-Greene-sharpened.jpg Searching For Shade A lone buffalo searches for shade on an excessively hot late spring afternoon in Custer State Park, South Dakota. Custer State Park, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-goats-fall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7190125-Michael-Greene-Spearfish-Canyon-Bridal-Veil-Falls-sharpened.jpg Where the Goats Roam Graceful Bridal Veil Falls replete in spring colors located near Spearfish, SD in the Black Hills National Forest. This waterfall is located about 45 minutes from Sturgis, South Dakota. Spearfish Canyon, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/spring-creek-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7190113-Edit-Michael-Greene-Spearfish-Canyon-sharpened.jpg The Hidden Perspective Beautiful spring colors adorn the banks of the serene Spearfish Creek in Spearfish Canyon located in the Black Hills National Forest near Sturgis, South Dakota. Spearfish Canyon, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mosaic/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7190028-Michael-Greene-Badlands-NP-sharpened.jpg Mosaic Arrangement Amazing morning light illuminates the grassy badlands near Norbeck Pass in Badlands National Park near Wall, South Dakota Badlands National Park, SD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/grand-canyon-dappled-light/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7194997-Edit-GC-flat-sharpened.jpg A New Wave Dappled light over the red rocks and Colorado River near Navajo Point in the early morning on the South Rim. Navajo Point is most easily accessed by traveling into the park through Cameron, AZ. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/grand-canyon-thunderstorm-24/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7194897-grand-canyon-stomr-sharpened.jpg Transitions A late spring thunderstorm forms in the mid-morning near Moran Point providing some spectacular dappled light over the red rocks and Colorado River. Moran Point along the South Rim is most easily accessed by traveling into the park through Cameron, AZ. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/anza-last-light/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07193032-anza-last-shot-done-sharpened.jpg The Last Breath Abundant sand verbena are highlighted by spectacular weather conditions over the Santa Rosa Mountains in Southern CA near the town of Borrengo Springs. Anza-Borrego State Park, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/anza-storm-rays/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07192986-storm-over-anza-borrego-flat-2-sharpened.jpg Ray of Hope Abundant Sand Verbena and Datura are highlighted by spectacular weather conditions over the Santa Rosa Mountains in Southern CA near the town of Borrengo Springs. Anza-Borrego State Park, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ward-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7195617-Edit-sharpened.jpg Into the Wilderness Looking North on the footbridge above Ward Creek on the Perseverance Trail in the Tongass National Forest near Ketchikan Alaska. Ketchikan, AK https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/gulf-of-alaska/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7195589-Edit-2-sharpened.jpg The Ultimate View A picturesque view of the Gulf of Alaska islands looking north from Lunch Creek on a splendid September afternoon in Ketchikan Alaska. Settler's Cover State Recreation Area AK https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/salmon-run/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7195554_salmon-run-flat-sharpened.jpg Salmon Run Settler's Cove is one of the most spectacular state parks in the Alaska. Pictured here is Lunch Creek amid the backdrop of a spectacular rainforest and during the peak salmon run. While the fish are not clearly visible in this image there literally hundreds in the water! Settler's Cove State Recreation Area, AK https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/beaver-falls-alaska/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7195546-Edit-rs-falls-sharpened.jpg A Mossy Refreshment Mossy Beaver Falls is a roadside delight near the growing waterside town of Ketchikan AK - the state's southern most major settlement. Ketchikan, AK https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/alaskan-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7195541-Edit-stream-depth-of-field-blend-crop-flat-sharpened.jpg Hidden In Plain Sight You are looking down at a section of beautiful cascades and lush foliage downstream from Beaver Falls near Ketchikan, Alaska. Ketchikan, AK https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aialik-abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7195420-Aialik-Glacier.jpg Natural Forces Aialik Glacier is a major tidewater glacier found in Kenai Fords National Park and accessible only by boat from the port town of Seward, Alaska. This is an up close and personal abstract view of it's headwall. Kenai Fords National Park, AK https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/virgin-waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7195353-sharpened.jpg Here At Last Virgin Creek Falls located in the massive Chugach National Forest outside of Anchorage may be Alaska's most photogenic waterfall. The 5.6 million acre national forest located in Southcentral Alaska represents America's northern most range of temperate rain forest. Girdwood, AK https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/chugach-cascade/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7195302-chugich-waterfall.jpg The Season's End A beautiful unnamed cascading fall along the Seward Highway and Turnagain Arm in the Chugach National Forest near Anchorage, Alaska shows early signs of a fall colors. Chugach National Forest, AK https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/little-susnita/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7195289-Edit-sharpened.jpg The River's Beauty You are looking at a 300mm shot of a section of cascading rapids along the spectacular Little Susnita River near Hatcher Pass Alaska. Wasilla, AK https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/knik-melt-pool/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7195257-melt-pool-sharpened.jpg Last of the Melt Pools You are looking at a small glacial melt pool late captured on a rainy afternoon late in the summer season deep within a secluded corner of the Knik Glacier near the Knik River. This pure Alaskan water is drinkable as is. Palmer, AK https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/knik-calving/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7195210-ice-calving-sharpened.jpg The Calving You are looking at freshly calved ice from the Knik Glacier on captured from a small rocky outcropping in the Knik River near Palmer, Alaska. The deep blue color is only visible on overcast days and immediately after calving occurs. Palmer, AK https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cliff-dwelling/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07192722-Edit-alex-hike-sharpened.jpg Heaven's Harbinger Looking out from a cliff dwelling at majestic red mountains near Cottonwood and Sedona, AZ in the Coconino National Forest. Coconino National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/jupiter-beach-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07192468-morning-sunrise-florida-sharpened.jpg Heaven's Harbinger The sun breaks through the clouds for a fleeting moment of time during the early morning amid a brief respite of the heavy pounding of waves at a rocky beach near the Atlantic Ocean in South Fl. Florida https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/jupiter-beach/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07192435-Edit-blend-sunrise-florida-beach-flat-sharpened.jpg High Surf, Heavy Storms and Pink Skies This was a serendipitous morning where generally sunny skies were yielding to an oncoming storm creating fantastic conditions around sunrise. The surf was already featuring 6-8 ft swells before the front moved in. I spent all morning shooting at this exciting South Fl location where heavy waves pounded and splashed against the natural rocks on a sandy beach near the cusp of the ocean. Florida https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/casa_grande_flower/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7193710-Edit-sunlight-on-the-mountain-casa-grande-sharpened.jpg Saguaro Fortress of Flowers A prolific spring bloom of brittlebush amid a scenic outcropping of boulders and cacti just after sunrise in the Sonoran Desert near Casa Grande, Arizona. Sonoran Desert, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/afternoon-delight-ai/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/wildflowers-White-Mountains-AI.jpg Afternoon Delight This AI version significantly deviates from my original photograph. The inspiration was the beautiful views of the White Mountains and I feel this version furthers my original approach. The high desert bloom of the midground is transformed into a more mountainous region with pine trees resulting in a painterly landscape fantasy. Bishop, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/independence-sunset-ai/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Independence-sunset-AI.jpg A Calming Presence In this AI adaptation I chose a version that closely resembles my original photo of a sunset in the Eastern Sierras with a darker, more painterly approach. Inyo National Forest, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/independence-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/sunset-sierra-flowers-done-flat-clone-removal-gigapixel-low_res-scale-1_00x-sharpened.jpg A Calming Presence I was drawn to this rock outcropping during a colorful sunset in the Eastern Sierras near Independence, California. This was captured in late May during a record-breaking year for California bush lupine with the White Mountains beckoning in the distance. Inyo National Forest, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/show-me-california/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7194019-afternoon-delight-flat-sharpened.jpg Afternoon Delight Beautiful afternoon clouds dapple light near the White Mountains and Bishop, California on a stormy afternoon in the remote Fish Slough volcanic tablelands amid copious white-stemmed stickleaf. This high desert mountain range is home to the oldest living trees in the world: the ancient bristlecone pines. The range is anchored at the north end by the highest peak in the State of Nevada, Boundary Peak. Fish Slough Wilderness Study Area, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lupine-ai-sunrise-oil/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/lupine-sunrise-hq-sharpened.jpg Wonderous Arrival This painterly interpretation of my photo adds large trees to the base of Mount Williamson and fills the midground with impressionistic flowers. This image was captured in the Alabama Hills - the gateway to the Eastern Sierra near Lone Pine, CA, sunrise Inyo National Forest, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/pier-ai/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/PIer-Warp-blend-flat-sharpened.jpg The Beauty of Destruction A unique and interesting AI interpretation of my FL photograph by changing the pier from concrete to wood and adding land in the background. I specifically requested extra clouds and particularly enjoy the foreground reflection of the water, which is impressionistic. Fort Myers, Florida https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/pier/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20221207-07191658-pier-warp-finished-true-image-sharpened.jpg The Beauty of Destruction A surreal combination of events led to the making of this image including the vast destruction of Hurricane Ian, the perfect tide levels along with the combination of a rising full moon and setting sun. Fort Myers, FL was a virtual ghost town when I randomly pulled in to capture a beach sunset from this high-profile resort town and its pier. Fort Myers, Florida https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sedona_sunrise/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20221227-07192810_initial-sedona-sunrise-sharpened.jpg A New Beginning A stormy sunrise of a distant butte brings vibrant colors to the sky near the Village of Oak Creek, AZ. Coconino National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/oil-thousand-island-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/oil_thousand_island_lake.jpg Lake of Dreams I used AI to help create an oil painting of my photo from Thousand Island Lake near Bishop, CA. In this version the huge lake appears smaller and more personal and there is a surreal combination of both summer wildflowers and fall colors. I am particularly drawn to the painterly clouds drifting above 13,149-foot Mount Ritter. Ansel Adams Wilderness, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lupine_ai_oil_print/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Alabama_hills_lupine_oil_print.jpg Morning Glory You are looking at an AI oil print of my sunrise image entitled, "Morning Glory" captured in the Alabama Hills in May 2023. This impressionistic interpretation shows the sun bursting over the White Mountains amid a carpet of wild bush lupine. The Alabama Hills are located near Lone Pine, CA. Inyo National Forest, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/davis_lake_oil_print/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Davis_Lake_Oil_Print.jpg Peak Mystique This is an AI-generated oil print of my photograph from Davis Lakes in the Ansel Adams Wilderness near Bishop, CA. I was drawn to this version as it pictures more alpenglow along with additional light on the trees and a distinct, surreal and impressionistic reflection on the water. Ansel Adams Wilderness, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sierra-majesty/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20220626-07191179-thousand-island-overlook-sharpened.jpg Lake of Dreams A spectacular midday scene near the PCT overlooking Thousand Island Lake deep in the Sierra Nevada Mountains near Yosemite National Park and Lee Vining California. Pictured in the background is 13,149-foot Mount Ritter the highest peak in Madera County. Sadly a teen lost his life in the weeks after this image while swimming in this lake's frigid waters. Ansel Adams Wilderness, Californi https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/backcountry-twilight/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20220626-07191263_majesty-Recovered-Recovered-sharpened.jpg Peak Mystique A twilight capture of the remote Davis Lakes Basin nestled deep in the Sierra Nevada mountains near Yosemite National Park's eastern border and Lee Vining California. Ansel Adams Wilderness, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bush-lupine/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/test-last-shot-flat-sharpened.jpg My Surrender Record-sized bush lupine captured on a stormy afternoon in the Alabama Hills near Lone Pine, California. Pictured in the background is 14,379-foot Mount Williamson - the second-highest mountain in both the Sierra Nevada range and the state of California, and the sixth-highest peak in the contiguous United States. Inyo National Forest, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lupine-sun-burst/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/sunrise-blend-done-flat-AI-sharpened.jpg Morning Glory The sun bursts over the White Mountains as seen from a record-sized bush lupine field in the Alabama Hills near Lone Pine, California. Inyo National Forest, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/williamson-alpenglow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/helicon-666-AI-Blend-crop-AI-FG-sharpened.jpg Wonderous Arrival Record-sized bush lupine captured on a clear morning in the Alabama Hills near Lone Pine, California. Pictured in the background is alpenglow on 14,379-foot Mount Williamson - the second-highest mountain in both the Sierra Nevada range and the state of California, and the sixth-highest peak in the contiguous United States. Inyo National Forest, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bush-lupine-vertical/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/first-night-vertical-1-AI-flat-sharpened.jpg The Hidden Perspective Record-sized bush lupine captured on a stormy afternoon in the Alabama Hills near Lone Pine, California. Pictured in the background is 14,379-foot Mount Williamson - the second-highest mountain in both the Sierra Nevada range and the state of California, and the sixth-highest peak in the contiguous United States. Inyo National Forest, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bishop-light-show/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20230523-_7194062-initial-blend-2-Recovered-bishop-light-show-2-sharpened.jpg Bishop Light Show An amazing light show near the White Mountains and Bishop, California on a stormy afternoon in the remote Fish Slough volcanic tablelands amid copious white-stemmed stickleaf. This high desert mountain range is home to the oldest living trees in the world: the ancient bristlecone pines. The range is anchored at the north end by the highest peak in the State of Nevada, Boundary Peak. Fish Slough Wilderness Study Area, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/alabama-hills-lupine/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_7193764-Edit-flat-crop-sharpened.jpg Breathless Record-sized bush lupine captured on a stormy afternoon in the Alabama Hills near Lone Pine, California. Pictured in the background is 14,379-foot Mount Williamson - the second-highest mountain in both the Sierra Nevada range and the state of California, and the sixth-highest peak in the contiguous United States. Inyo National Forest, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/candyland_3/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20200402-07190521-candy-land-3-sharpened.jpg The Sphinx Twilight brings out the amazing colors of the red rock and clay formations in Southern UT and Northern AZ. Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/superstition-pink-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20220329-07190717-SUPER-sunset-sharpened.jpg Smidgens A day of spectacular conditions comes to a close with sunset spots of pink dotting the sky. The Superstition Mountains are located in the Tonto National Forest near Apache Junction, AZ. Lost Dutchman State Park, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/south_san_juan_sunburst/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201006-07191143-2-HDR-king-york-sharpened.jpg King York The sunbursts through an eye-catching section of aspen trees in the South San Juan Wilderness near South Fork CO. South San Juan Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/grosvenor-arch/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20200403-07190570-HDR-juniper-arch-sharpened.jpg Juniper Meets Arch A lone juniper tree grows in a secluded area underneath the majestic tower of Grosvenor Arch located near Kodachrome Basin State Park, UT. Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hole-in-the-rock-devils-garden/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20220501-07190914-devils-garden-version-2-sharpened.jpg The Three Kings A passing afternoon storm presented outstanding lighting in the Devil's Garden - a photography hotspot - located near the town of Escalante, UT on Hole-in-the-Rock Road. Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-wave/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20210920-07190248-the-wave-Recovered-sharpened.jpg The Elite Environment The Wave is one of the most spectacular outdoor locations in the United States. Pictured here on a day with near-perfect conditions for photography and hiking. This hike is located near the AZ-UT border between the towns of Page and Kanab. North Coyote Buttes, Paria Wilderness, Arizona and Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/payson-cascades/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201025-07191921-n-az-cascade-flat-sharpened.jpg Day of Reckoning A blustery day of light snow, rain, and sunshine brought outstanding opportunities for photography, hiking, and solitude at Horton Creek during peak fall colors. These cascades are found in eastern Arizona near the town of Payson. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-vista-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20220501-07190945-devils-garden-sunset-sharpened.jpg The Surreal Sunset A brief passing rainstorm led to this dramatic sunset at the Devils Garden, which is located near Escalante, UT on Hole-In-The-Rock Road. Grand Staircase Escalate National Monument, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/reflection-canyon-sunburt/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20220501-07190859-HDR-Reflection-Canyon-1-sharpened.jpg Life Force A long hike and chilly overnight stay led to this intense early morning sunburst overlooking Reflection Canyon - a classic view of a remote arm of Lake Powell. Pictured here in the springtime during record-low, water-levels. Reflection Canyon is located near the town of Escalante, UT on Hole-in-the-Rock Road. Grand Staircase Escalate National Monument, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/red-rock-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20220429-07190744-sharpened_Blue-2.jpg Skinwalkers Sunset at an iconic rock formation in Blue Canyon, which is located on the Hopi Reservation in Northern AZ. Blue Canyon, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cathedral-wash-slot-canyon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20210919-07190137_page-Sun-hike-sharpened.jpg Cathedral Impressions Reflections and mud in the most scenic slot canyon of the Cathedral Wash Trail near the Colorado River after heavy summertime rains. This 3.3-mile out-and-back hike is located close to Page, AZ. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/desert-overlook/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201008-07191888-nm-overlook-sunrise-sharpened.jpg Jubilant Kisses Morning light kisses the tablelands, plateaus and hillsides of the Santa Fe National Forest during autumn colors along the Rio Chama River in Northern NM. Northern New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/saguaro-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199793-2-OP-2-sharpened.jpg Pastel Twilight The subtle pastel colors of sunset decorate the peaks of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, AZ while guarded by a sea of saguaros. Organ Pipe National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/boulder-flowers-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07190063-Edit-super-redo-sunset-sharpened.jpg Colors of the Spring The springtime brittlebush bloom at Lost Dutchman State Park is impressive along with Phoenix's most iconic desert view of the western escarpment of the Superstition Mountains. (pictured here near sunset)The park is located near Apache Junction in the Tonto National Forest. Lost Dutchman State Park, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cottonwood_sunburst/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201008-07191902-sunstar-NM-2020-sharpened.jpg Homeward Bound aka The Golden Adventure Sun bursts through a small grove of golden Cottonwood trees while exploring Northern NM near Abiquiú on a quiet October morning. My last photo and possibly my favorite from a six-day adventure in 2020. I didn't want to leave. Abiquiú, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/blue-hour/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201008-07191694-sharpened.jpg Blue Hour in the High Desert Blue hour accentuates the colorful rock formations of Northern New Mexico. Abiquiú, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-unison_nm/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201008-07191638_NM-nightfall-ghost-sharpened.jpg Forgotten by Strangers This awesome scene was overlooked by so many who passed. Towering cliffs of gold, pink and white above an eclectic ensemble of trees in autumn unison. Abiquiú, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/fire-forest/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201007-07191498-fire-forest-sharpened2.jpg Towering Inferno A flaming, backlit stand of aspens captured during an autumn morning drive in the South San Juan Wilderness near Platoro, CO. Inspired by the old disaster flick starring Steve McQueen and Paul Newman. South San Juan Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lone-survivor/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201007-07191378-lone-tree-south-san-juan-sharpened.jpg Down the Valley A lone aspen tree accentuates the isolation of an intersection of forest roads near the high point of the South San Juan Wilderness outside of Platoro, CO in late autumn. South San Juan Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/colorful-aspens-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201006-07191017-the-perfect-leaves-sharpened.jpg Color Works The best autumn colors I saw on a six-day photography captured on a frigid morning in early October near South Fork, Colorado in 2020. South San Juan Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/636/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201006-07190987-into-the-leaves-sharpened.jpg Unstoppable The best autumn colors I saw on a six-day photography captured on a frigid morning in early October near South Fork, Colorado in 2020. Inspired by the Dokken song "Into the Fire". South San Juan Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/wolf-creek-pass/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201006-07190959-wolf-creek-sunset-sharpened.jpg Purple Mountain Majesty The drive over Wolf Creek Pass is one of the most dramatic in Southern Colorado. It's especially stunning in the fall during peak foliage. Captured here at sunset. Wolf Creek Pass, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/fireside/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201006-07190889_Lemon-Hillside-sharpened.jpg Barriers A clump of pines contrasts nicely in midday light amid a flaming hillside of scrub oak, pine, and aspen. Captured in the San Juan National Forest near the small community of Bayfield, CO. Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/skeleton-crew/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07191350-skelton-trees-south-san-juan-Recovered-flat-sharpened.jpg Skeleton Crew A vibrant stand of aspens caught my attention on a steep hillside above my camp. In the fading evening light, I raced up the hillside and photographed until the light was gone impressed by the perfection of the leaves and stillness of the air. Captured near Platoro, Colorado in 2020. South San Juan Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/blood_moon_2022/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20220515-07190980-full-moon-sharpened.jpg Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse Full lunar eclipse captured near the Santa Catalina Mountains on the night of May 15, 2022. Tucson, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aravaipa/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20211208-07190549_December_Golden-sharpened.jpg December Golden A beautiful creek cascades through an intimate canyon of stunning fall foliage in Central Arizona. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-art-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20210920-07190348-last-rock-wave-patterns-sharpened.jpg Ancient Secrets Amazing striations, colors and intimate sandstone patterns are found in secluded and hidden alcoves in the Paria Wilderness near the border of UT and AZ. North Coyote Buttes, Paria Wilderness, Arizona & Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/paria-rocks/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20210920-07190209-on-the-way-down.jpg The Lost One "Off-trail" exploits led to the discovery of this spectacular rock formation on the side of a steep butte in the Paria Wilderness on the AZ-UT border. Photo taken about an hour after sunrise in September 2021. North Coyote Buttes, Paria Wilderness, Arizona & Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hike_to_wave/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20210920-07190188-sunrise-wave-sharpened.jpg In the Beginning Sunrise in the Paria Wildnerness on a hike to see the Wave. Paria Wilderness, Arizona & Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/chosen/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20210919-07190170-gas-station-vertical-sharpened.jpg The Chosen Night Page AZ offers a myriad of photography exploits and destinations with jaw-dropping and secluded sandstone scenery. Page, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-whirlwind-adventure/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201025-07191963-sharpened-HC-MAGIC.jpg The Whirlwind Adventure Fun times rolling solo at Horton Creek on a blistery day in early November of 2020 capturing fall foliage. Within an hour of capturing this image, I watched my camera topple 10-feet over the ledge of a small cliff and smash into the shallow waters below. Miraculously, to this day it is still working despite being filled with water for over two hours! Many thanks to AZ Camera Works and Jesus ; ) Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/625/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20201004-07190820_Thompson-sharpened.jpg The First Morning A hazy and cloudless sunrise at the Angel Peak Badlands near Bloomfield, Colorado and Neegezi, New Mexico. Captured on the first morning of a 6-day adventure in early October 2020. Angel Peak, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/navajo-bridge-time-lapse/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20200404-07190772-colorado-time-lapse-sharpened.jpg Ancient Callings A midday time-lapse of the Colorado River captured from the Navajo Bridge in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area near Page, AZ. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/candyland-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20200402-07190516-candyland-2-sharpened.jpg Candyland Two A colorful canyon of red clay and rock formations near the AZ and UT state border. Paria Wilderness, Arizona & Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/battleship/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20200308-07199892_Battleship-sharpened.jpg Battleship Flowers You are looking at Battleship Mountain - one of the best and most challenging desert hikes in Central AZ. A beautiful display of brittlebush is on display in the foreground. This is a dangerous hike. I once foolishly fell backwards 10-feet off a cliff and fortunately landed into a 5-foot high bunch of weeds, which completely buffered my fall and I ended up with only a swollen elbow. Thank you Jesus. Superstition Mountain Wilderness, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sky-drama/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199993-Edit-2_final-storm-sharpened.jpg Sky Drama Drama in the skies on my favorite loop trail in the Superstition Mountains during a spectacular spring brittlebush bloom. Amazingly it didn't rain even a drop on this trip. Superstition Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sun_kissed/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07190930_sunstar-devils-garden-sharpened.jpg Sun-Kissed A dramatic sunburst through an iconic rock formation at the Devil's Garden in the Grand Staircase Escalate National Monument near Esclate, UT. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/candyland_az/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07190484_Candyland-flat-sharpened.jpg Candyland A colorful butte wondrously reflects last light while forming the head of a large, dynamic canyon. Captured at sunset in March of 2020 during the lockdowns. Paria Wilderness, Arizona & Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/utah_arizona_night/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07190423_fave_shot_Paria-flat-sharpened.jpg The Unseen Light A long-exposure shot captured the cloud movement and ambient light in this Northern AZ and UT high desert. Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sonic-temple/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07190165-gas-station-horizontal-sharpened.jpg Sonic Temple Crazy ambient light in a secluded sandstone location near Page, AZ. Photo named after The Cult's classic album. Page, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/desert-aura/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199686_soft-landing-2-flat---Copy.jpg Desert Aura A full moon sets over the Tularosa Basin as the golden morning sun lights up the dunes and peaks surrounding White Sands National Park. The park is located 13 miles outside of Alomogordo, NM. White Sands National Park, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/tree-abstract-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199432-twisting-veins---Copy.jpg Twisted Veins An abstract image of the branches a very large, dead ponderosa pine tree taken on a stormy day on a hike in the Organ Mountains. The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument was designated in 2016 by President Obama and is 10 miles outside of Las Cruces, NM. Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ponderosa-pine-abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199419_twisted-tree---Copy.jpg Gnarled An abstract image of the branches a very large, dead ponderosa pine tree taken on a stormy day on a hike in the Organ Mountains. The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument was designated in 2016 by President Obama and is 10 miles outside of Las Cruces, NM. Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/tree-abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199410_crazy---Copy.jpg Down An abstract image of the branches a very large, dead ponderosa pine tree taken on a stormy day on a hike in the Organ Mountains. The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument was designated in 2016 by President Obama and is 10 miles outside of Las Cruces, NM. Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cholla/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199754-Joshua-Tree-flat-finished-3---Copy.jpg Circular Sunrise I witnessed a spectacular sunrise on a beautiful winter morning from the massive cholla field in the middle of the park. Joshua Tree National Park is located near Indio, CA and is America's fastest growing (in visitors) national park. It has recently been plagued by vandalism. Please be respectful when you visit.    Joshua Tree National Park, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/desert-peaks/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199433_dark-towers-crop---Copy.jpg The Dark Towers A close-up of the highest peaks of the Organ Mountains during a stormy afternoon. The Organ Mountains are located 10 miles outside of Las Cruces, NM. Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/superstition-river/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199747-superstition-stream-finished-crop---Copy.jpg The Vanishing River A temporary river rages through a slot canyon in the backcountry of the Superstition Mountains after a series of winter storms blanketed the Phoenix, AZ metropolitan area. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/time-lapse-superstition/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199099-superstition-flood-crop---Copy.jpg Superstition Flood A flooded view of the north-western escarpment of the Superstition Mountains during a 60-second time-lapsed exposure on a day of clearing storms. This image was created near Apache Junction, AZ in the Lost Dutchman State Park. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cool-desert/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199638-poppies-2020-flat-crop---Copy.jpg Cool Desert A sublime overlook of Bartlett Lake on a cold winter's day. The poppies weren't blooming at this spot but the wonderful clouds resulted in an overnight storm that brought snow to the area. Bartlett lake is located 20 miles outside of Scottsdale, AZ. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/battleship-mountain/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199729-battleship-mtn---Copy.jpg Battleship Mountain A dramatic view of snow-capped Weaver's Needle as seen from Battleship Mountain the day after a massive winter snowstorm in the Superstition Mountains. These mountains are located near Apache Junction, AZ. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ruby-road/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199306-2_return-to-the-crossing-2-flat-crop---Copy.jpg Return to the Crossing A beautiful pink desert sunset as seen from Ruby Road in the Coronado National Forest outside of Nogales, AZ. Coronado National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/boyce-thompson/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199062-Boyce-Thompson-Storm-flat---Copy.jpg The Ravens Call Look closely for the group of ravens gathered atop the dramatic outcropping in the Sonoran Desert section of Boyce Thompson's Arboretum. I used a large prickly pear cactus to frame this shot, which was captured during a morning of clearing storms in the late summer. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum located along Highway US 60 outside of Superior, AZ. Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/narrows-image/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07190069-narrows-final-Edit---Copy.jpg Journey to Another World Ambient mid-day light reflects off a chasm of rock deep in the heart of Zion's Narrows known as Wall Street. I used a higher vantage to capture the Virgin River flowing downstream toward one of the most popular sections of the hike. Zion National Park is located outside of Springdale, UT.  Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bosque/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199972_bosque---Copy.jpg Wild Flights Snow geese, Sandhill cranes and ducks getting ready to take flight before dawn at the Bosque del Apache Wildlife Refuge. Bosque is located about 18.5 miles south of Socorro, NM. Bosque del Apache Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/full-moon-white-sands-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199613_full-moon-2019---Copy.jpg Lunar Shafts Full moon light shines through the backcountry dunes in White Sands National Park captured on a frigid late autumn evening. White Sands is located near the military town of Alomogordo, NM and part of the Tularosa Basin. White Sands National Park, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/white-sands-epic-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199585_White-Sands-Epic-Sunset-2019-flat---Copy.jpg White Sands Epic Sunset Blessed to experience an epic sunset while in the backcountry of White Sands National Park. The spectacular light radiates off the white dunes creating a surreal landscape. White Sands is located near the military town of Alomogordo, NM and part of the Tularosa Basin. White Sands National Park, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/white-sands-window/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199555_white-sands-sunset-1-2019---Copy.jpg Window of Transformation The beginning on an epic sunset while backpacking at White Sands National Park. For this image, I neutralized part of the color cast of the dunes to fit my personal experience. White Sands is located near the military town of Alomogordo, NM and part of the Tularosa Basin. White Sands National Park, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/three-amigos/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199519_three-amigos-white-sands-flat---Copy.jpg The Three Amigos Surreal light and painterly blue skies decorate the a trio of Yucca shrubs in the backcountry of White Sands National Park. White Sands is located near the military town of Alomogordo, NM and part of the Tularosa Basin. White Sands National Park, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/organ-long-exposure/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199464_Organ-Mtns-Long-Exposure---Copy.jpg The Highest Reaches I used several filters to create this 50-second exposure of clouds whipping through the highest reaches of the Organ Mountains on a morning where the weather was transitioning from rain to sun. The Organ Mountains are located 10 miles outside of Las Cruces, NM. Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/organ-mountains-overlook/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199393_Organ-Mountains-Overlook-flat---Copy.jpg Another Time, Another Place An autumn vantage from a saddle in the rugged backcountry of the Organ Mountains overlooking the Tularosa Basin. It's easy to imagine hiding out in the Gamble oaks and spying on your enemies during the American frontier. The Organ Mountains are located 10 miles outside of Las Cruces, NM. Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/organ-mountains-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199332_organ-mountains-1---Copy.jpg Desert Structures Colorful Gamble oaks decorate the rugged backcountry of the Organ Mountains in late afternoon light. Eight-thousand-foot Sugar Loaf peak dappled by an immense southwestern cloud completes the scene. The Organ Mountains are located 10 miles outside of Las Cruces, NM. Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/wall-street/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199945-narrows-1-cropped-flat---Copy.jpg Intersection of Grandeur The Virgin River as seen from one of the deepest and darkest sections of the Narrows known as Wall Street. This area photographs best in midday light in the middle of summer. The hike to this area takes approximately two hours (one-way). Zion National Park is located near Springdale, Utah. Zion National Park, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-watchman/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199858-Edit-watchman-2019-2---Copy.jpg Summer's Watchman This is an iconic view of the Watchman from the bridge across the Virgin River connecting Zion Canyon to the eastern section of the park. The Virgin River is a tributary of the Colorado River. The Watchman is arguably the most recognizable rock formation in the park and looms large above the town of Springdale, Utah. This image was captured in the middle of the summer. Zion National Park, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sonoran-desert/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199800-sonoran-desert-national-monument---Copy.jpg Striking Gold Sonoran Desert National Monument was created in 2001 and is located south of Goodyear and Buckeye and east of Gila Bend, Arizona. It is managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management as part of the National Landscape Conservation System. The monument, which is not well developed, features three distinct areas: The North Maricopa Mountains, South Maricopa Mountains and the Table Top Wildernesses. This image was captured in the North Maricopa Mountains during an 8-mile round trip spring hike. This was the most scenic section of the desert with abundant wildflowers (yellow poppies) and large saguaros. Sonoran Desert National Monument, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bartlett-poppies-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199593-poppies-1-color-correct-flat---Copy.jpg Spring Love The Bartlett Lake recreation area near Carefree, Arizona is a hot spot for spring wildflowers. The 2019 bloom of poppies was a memorable one. This image was captured on a chilly Sunday afternoon in early February. Believe it or not, it snowed later that night. Bartlett Lake is a reservoir that was formed by the damming of the Verde River. It is located 48 miles from downtown Phoenix. Tonto National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/barlett-poppies-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199565-poppy-field---Copy.jpg Iconic Arizona The Bartlett Lake recreation area near Carefree, Arizona is a hot spot for spring wildflowers. The 2019 bloom of poppies was a memorable one. This image was captured on a chilly Sunday afternoon in early February. Believe it or not, it snowed later that night. Bartlett Lake is a reservoir that was formed by the damming of the Verde River. It is located 48 miles from downtown Phoenix. Tonto National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/utah-bryce/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199846-Bryce-Light---Copy.jpg Storm Reckoning Stormy-midday light illuminates a wall of hoodoos along a high point of the Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon National Park. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cedar-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199047_Cedar-Breaks-1-flat---Copy.jpg Geometry Late afternoon light on illuminates the sandstone hoodoos near Spectra Point Overlook. Cedar Breaks is located near Brian Head in Southernwestern Utah. Cedar Breaks National Monument, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sunrise-cedar-breaks/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198993-HDR-cedar-sunrise-blend-flat---Copy.jpg Morning of Mystery An astonishing view of summer sunrise at Cedar Breaks captured near Spectra Point Overlook. On this morning there was a thin layer of clouds that created this vibrant spectrum of colors. Cedar Breaks is located near Brian Head in Southern Utah. Cedar Breaks National Monument, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/utah-sunburst/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198966-sun-burst-flat---Copy.jpg Celestial Alignment Part 2 This image of an amazing sunset along the rim of Cedar Breaks National Monument captured during a hike from Spectra Point Overlook. Earlier in the afternoon, a major monsoon soaked the area. The skies cleared while storms lingered to the southwest. Eventually, the sun ducked behind those storm clouds and reemerged a brilliant orange-pink. I quickly scrambled to find an appropriate ledge and this sunburst resulted. Cedar Breaks is located near Brian Head in southwestern Utah at an altitude of about 10,000 feet. Cedar Breaks National Monument, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cedar-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198822-Cedar-Breaks-first-morning---Copy.jpg Army of Hoodoos A telephoto image of the main amphitheater of hoodoos amid diffused early morning light from the Point Supreme Viewpoint near the Cedar Breaks visitor center. Cedar Breaks is located near Brian Head in southwestern Utah. Because of the park's high altitude, summer makes an ideal time for visiting. Cedar Breaks National Monument, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/salt-river-glow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199356---Dean-Glow---Copy.jpg The Glow Late afternoon light reflects off of the autumn colors of tamarisk trees on the Salt River near Mesa, AZ. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/salt-river-autumn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199297_Salt-River-2-Day-1---Copy.jpg Light Harbinger Mossy rocks provide a colorful element while photographing a sublime autumn afternoon along the Salt River near Mesa, AZ. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/salt-river-autumn-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199285-salt-reflections-1-flat---Copy.jpg Salt River Reflections Amazing reflections provide a colorful element while photographing a sublime autumn afternoon along the Salt River near Mesa, AZ. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/saguaros-snow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199252_saguaros-4peaks---Copy.jpg New Year's Snow A rare New Year's Eve storm brought snow to the high country of the Four Peaks Wilderness near Fountain Hills, AZ. My search for snow-covered saguaros brought me to this delightful stand displayed in beautiful conditions. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/boulders-morning-four-peaks/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199238_morning-snow-first-location-flat-crop---Copy.jpg Transitions Early morning light captured from the iconic boulders of the Four Peaks Wilderness looking northwest toward the snow-capped Mazatzal Mountains. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/desert-spoon-snow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199216_new-years-day-spoon-flat---Copy.jpg Snow Spoon A beautiful, mature desert spoon provides the perfect anchor for a early morning scene of a clearing snow storm in the foothills of the Four Peaks Wilderness. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/galiuro-sunset-autumn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199179-sunset-Aravaipa-flat---Copy.jpg A Day to Remember A Sonoran cactus garden featuring saguaros and prickly pear overlook Aravaipa Canyon captured during a splendid autumn sunset. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/oak-creek-autumn-2018-3/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07199066-2-subway-Jan---Copy.jpg Canyon of Color A peak autumn colors on display near the terminus of the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon (trail) near Sedona, AZ on a rainy afternoon. Coconino National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/oak-creek-autumn-subway-2018/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198993-subway-oak-creek-combo-flat-crop---Copy.jpg Oak Creek Subway The iconic subway section of the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon is a popular place to stop and relax. Most don't venture into the creek bed, which is the point of view for this autumn capture. This trail is located outside of Sedona, AZ. Coconino National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/oak-creek-autumn-2018/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198939-oak-Creek-3-downstream---Copy.jpg Call of the Canyon A unique perspective of the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon captured during peak fall colors. The trail is located near Sedona, AZ. Coconino National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/oak-creek-autumn-2018-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198937-Oak-Creek-reflection-shot-flat---Copy.jpg A Reflective Autumn Reflections of the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon captured during peak fall colors. The trail is located near Sedona, AZ. Coconino National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/storm-current/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198859-painted-desert-lighting-flat---Copy.jpg Storm Current A pleasant overnight backpacking trip into the painted desert area of the Petrified Forest turned perilous as a late-season, unexpected lightning storm moved into the area. The Petrified Forest National Park is located about 30 miles from Holbrook, AZ near the New Mexico border. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/limon-beach/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198793-last-shot---Copy.jpg Lost Waves in Hidden Sand A time lapse photo captures a huge chunk of driftwood being swallowed by a furious surf. The time lapse was used to balance light and give the image an abstract feel. This unnamed beach is located between the port city of Limon and the resort town of Puerto Viejo in SE Costa Rica along the Caribbean Sea. Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/chino-beach/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198774-massive-sunset-final-4---Copy.jpg Chino Beach Fireworks An amazing sunset capped off a spectacular day in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. Chino Beach is located downtown and on this evening was the perfect place to capture sunset. Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/long-exposure-pier/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198739-pier---Copy.jpg When Time Moves Slowly A time lapse photo of an old pier in the central portion of the beach hike at Cahuita National Park. This park is located in SE Costa Rica near the resort town of Puerto Viejo. Cahuita National Park, Costa Rica https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/tropical-paradise/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198713-cahuita-np---Copy.jpg Reef Hunting Exploring the coastal coral reefs at Cahuita NP is an exciting way to spend an afternoon. Surrounded by palm trees, coconuts, hermit crabs, and the Caribbean's sparkling turquoise waters this place is sure to capture your imagination. Cahuita National Park is located in SE Costa Rica near the resort town of Puerto Viejo. Cahuita National Park, Costa Rica https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/song-of-the-seas/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198666-Rock-sunset---Copy.jpg Song of the Seas The stoic profile of a sea stack contrasts with the fading light of dusk amid a turbulent Caribbean surf and colorful evening light. This shot was captured on a summer evening at the Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge near Puerto Viejo. Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge, Costa Rica https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sea-explosion/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198640-big-waves---Copy.jpg When Elements Collide A lone sandstone formation decorates the beach near a rocky platform amid exploding Caribbean surf and dramatic clouds. This was captured at sunset on a beautiful summer evening at the Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge in Southeastern Costa Rica. Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge, Costa Rica https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-perfect-spot/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198617-Edit-The-Perfect-Spot---Copy.jpg The Perfect Spot Big rocks and choppy surf dominate the scenery at a prominent viewpoint in the Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge. The wildlife refuge is located near the resort town of Puerto Viejo in SE Costa Rica. Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge, Costa Rica https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/caribbean-dream/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198594-playa-negra-sunset-2---Copy.jpg Caribbean Dreams A sandstone curiosity is circled by swirling surf at sunset on a beautiful summer evening at the Playa Negra. This beach is located between Cahuita National Park and the Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge in Southeastern Costa Rica near the resort town of Puerto Viejo. Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bisti-4/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197859_sunset-Bisti-Highway---Copy.jpg Light Wanderer Dappled storm light highlights the the colorful and unique palettes of New Mexico's famous San Juan badlands. Bisti Badlands https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/san-juan-waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198058-waterspout-fall.jpg Alpine Paradise I was perched upon a large boulder in the middle of the creek above a fall to give you this view of a picturesque watering hole. The San Juan Mountains have a number of spectacular unnamed and unmarked waterfalls perfect for the intrepid explorer. This one is located in the San Juan Mountains near Silverton, Colorado. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/co-mineral-waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/primary-waterfall-colorado---Copy.jpg The Perfect Place A classic view of a stunning waterfall. The San Juan Mountains have a number of spectacular unnamed and unmarked waterfalls perfect for the intrepid explorer. This one is located in the San Juan Mountains near Silverton, Colorado. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/classic-nm/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198579-last-shot-crop---Copy.jpg Native Lands Incredibly low monsoon clouds help showcase the arid high desert badlands with late afternoon storm light in northern New Mexico near Farmington and Shiprock. Bisti Wilderness, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bisti-2-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198523-Sacred-Meeting.jpg The Sacred Meeting The Bisti Badlands are located in northern New Mexico near Shiprock and Farmington. These vast badlands are a photographer's paradise. Bisti Wilderness, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bisti-3/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198511-alien-rock---Copy.jpg Reign Control The Bisti Badlands are located in northern New Mexico near Shiprock and Farmington. These vast badlands are a photographer's paradise. Bisti Wilderness, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/angel-peak/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198452-Angel-Peak---Copy.jpg Soul Purpose Sunset light on a stormy summer evening. Angel Peak scenic area is located in northern New Mexico near Shiprock and Farmington. These vast badlands are a photographer's paradise. Angel Peak Scenic Area, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/waterfall-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198361best-fall-flat---Copy.jpg Beyond Beauty A stunning waterfall in a hidden gorge near Ouray, Colorado captured on a stormy, summer evening. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/alpenglow-sunrise-co/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198197-sunrise-bk-final-version-crop---Copy.jpg The Color Window Alpenglow around sunrise on a stormy summer morning at Bullion King Lake in Porphyry Basin near the Red Mountain. The wildflower display includes: sneezeweed, indian paintbrush, and bistort. Details about this location are listed in my book. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bullion-king-lake-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07198141-Bullion-King-First-Night-Storm-Blend-2---Copy.jpg Storm Appeal A wicked summer evening storm rolls in above Porphyry Basin at 12,500 feet near the Red Mountain. It was already raining during this long-exposure captured shortly before nightfall. The wildflower display includes: sneezeweed, indian paintbrush, and bistort. Details about this location are listed in my book. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/co-waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197924-waterfall-2---Copy.jpg Secluded Rejuvenation A tricky composition of a stunning waterfall. This shot was captured in the spray zone and I had to keep wiping my camera between every shot. The San Juan Mountains have a number of spectacular unnamed and unmarked waterfalls perfect for the intrepid explorer. This one is located in the San Juan Mountains near Silverton, Colorado. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/siverton-tarn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197862-HDR-Mineral-Creek-Tarn-clone-stamp-2---Copy.jpg Red Mountain Heaven An unnamed red peak reflects perfectly in a tarn during the early morning near Ice Lake Basin Trail (Silverton, Colorado). San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hikeaz/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197353-2-Fred-Picketpost---Copy.jpg Celebrating the Day A solitary hiker admires the beauty of a large saguaro cactus while hiking near Picketpost Mountain. The trail to Picketpost is located beside the Boyce Thompson Arboretum near Superior, AZ. Superstition Mountain Wilderness, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/kitchencreekspring/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197492--Kitchen-Creek-2018-flat---Copy.jpg Flowing Hard Kitchen Creek was flowing hard after heavy spring rains. Can you spot the small tributary in the scene? Ricketts Glen State Park is the crown jewel of the PA state park system. It is located in the endless mountains in Northern Pennsylvania. Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/loyalstockcascade/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197444-loyalsock-waterfall-finished---Copy.jpg Cascading Splendor A cascading trio of small waterfalls makes an idyllic picnic spot in the endless mountains found in Northern PA. Loyalsock State Forest, Pennsylvania https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/loyalsock_waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197428-2-Unnamed-Fall-Loyalsock---Copy.jpg Colossal Water An unnamed waterfall rushes through a small gorge in PA's endless mountains. Loyalsock State Forest, Pennsylvania https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/angel_falls1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197405-Angel-Falls-Top---Copy.jpg A Glimpse into Heaven A rare view into the heart of 80-foot Angel Falls after heavy spring rains . Angel Falls located in the "endless mountains" is one of the largest waterfalls in northern PA. Loyalsock State Forest, Pennsylvania https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/fiery-sunrise/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Sunrise-painted-desert-flat---Copy.jpg Primordial Firewood A stormy sunrise produced fiery color over the black forest and painted desert areas of the Petrified Forest National Park near Holbrook, AZ. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/grand-canyon-rainbow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_8770-Grand-Canyon-Snow-Rainbow.jpg Beauty of the Storm A rare glimpse of a rainbow during a late winter snowstorm in the Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/storm-painted-desert/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197723-Edit-the-long-wood---Copy.jpg The Long Wood Storm clouds beckon over the black forest in the painted desert area of the Petrified Forest National Park. The park is near Holbrook, Arizona. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/petrified-wood/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197718-Petrified-Last---Copy.jpg Day of the Sky A plethora of petrified wood amid billowing vistas of the painted desert near Holbrook, Arizona. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/amazing-light/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197627-rock-crawl---Copy-2.jpg The Wanderers Amazing morning storm light showcases a small stand of mushroom rocks in the backcountry of the painted desert. I discovered this scene of badlands while exploring the black forest area of the park. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/solitary-awakening/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197610-best-morning-light-painted-desert---Copy.jpg Solitary Awakening Amazing morning storm light showcases a small stand of mushroom rocks in the backcountry of the painted desert. I discovered this scene of badlands while exploring the black forest area of the park. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lunar-fortress/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197572-moon-fortress-flat-2---Copy.jpg Lunar Fortress The full moon appears from behind a thick veil of clouds above the painted desert in the black forest area of Petrified Forest National Park. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/blue-hour-painted-desert/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197546-hoodoos-sunset-painted-desert-flat---Copy.jpg Extraterrestrial Flapjacks Blue hour vistas of the painted desert from a rocky perch in the Petrified Forest. This national park is located near Holbrook, Arizona. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/superstition-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Superstition-Sunset---Copy.jpg Gift from Above I captured this shot of a spectacular, yet fading sunset framed with chollas after hiking to the Flatiron Summit along the Siphon Draw Trail in Lost Dutchmen State Park near Apache Junction, Arizona. The summit can be seen in the background of this picture right below the purple sky. It is 5057 feet and located in the Superstition Mountain Wilderness. The overall elevation gain of the hike is 2781 feet and is very difficult, especially on the knees! Lost Dutchmen State Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/organ-pipe-storm/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197347-HDR-Backlit-Saguaros-OP---Copy.jpg The Breeding Ground A plethora of saguaros radiate in mid morning storm light in the backcountry of Organ Pipe Cactus NM. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is a UNESCO biosphere reserve located in extreme southern Arizona that shares a border with the Mexican state of Sonora. The closest towns to the park are Ajo and Lukeville. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/salt-river/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197295-HDR-Salt-River-Brook-Finished---Copy.jpg Colors of the New Year Fading autumn color along the banks of the Salt River near Mesa, Arizona. This overlook is part of the Tonto National Forest. The Tonto National Forest is the largest forest in Arizona and stretches from Apache Junction (west) to Globe (east) and Payson (north). Superstition Mountains, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/kitchen-creek-3/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07196967-Ricketts-2-flat---Copy.jpg Kitchen Creek Kitchen Creek flows through Ricketts Glen State Park, which features two gorges (Glen Leigh and Ganoga Glen) that host nearly three dozen waterfalls. Although the park has 23 miles of hiking trails, a 7.3 mile loop hike covers most of the water scenery. Ricketts Glen is located in northeastern Pennsylvania about 30 miles from Wilkes Barre.  Ricketts Glen State Park, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rickets-glen-current/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197045-Glen-4thShot-New.jpg Currency An incredible section of cascades in Glen Leigh Gorge in Ricketts Glen State Park. This well-known park features 23 miles of hiking trails and dozens of waterfalls in northeastern Pennsylvania near Scranton. Visiting the park in October during peak autumn colors is highly recommended. Ricketts Glen State Park, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ricketts-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07197009-Edit-Rickets-1-flat---Copy.jpg Where the Falls Course A tricky capture of a series of cascades along the Falls Trail in Ricketts Glen State Park. This image involved some cold water wading to get the proper perspective. Ricketts Glen is near Scranton, Pennsylvania and features 22 named waterfalls and host of unnamed ones as well. It's Pennsylvania's most famous state park and contains 23 miles of hiking trails. Ricketts Glen State Park, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/swirl_eight/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07196993-Rickets-Swirl---Copy-Sat.jpg Swirl Eight One of the many waterfalls along Kitchen Creek in Ganoga Glen. Ricketts Glen State Park is Pennsylvania's most famous park. A long shutter speed was used to achieve the effect of swirling autumn leaves. This is a limited edition print of 10. Ricketts Glen State Park, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ricketts-5/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Ricketts-5-flat-crop---Copy.jpg Lucid Flow Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the most scenic areas in Pennsylvania. This large park is comprised of 13,050 acres in Luzerne, Sullivan, and Columbia counties. Ricketts Glen harbors the Glens Natural Area -- a National Natural Landmark. Hike the Falls Trail System to explore the glens, which boasts a series of wild, free-flowing waterfalls, each cascading through rock-strewn clefts in this ancient hillside. The 94-foot Ganoga Falls is the highest of 22 named waterfalls. Old growth timber and diverse wildlife add to the beauty. Ricketts Glen State Park, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/keyhole/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07191968-Edit---Copy-Keyhole.jpg The Keyhole An amazing rock formation known as "the keyhole" on a hike to Quartz Lake near Pagosa Springs, CO. South San Juan Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/colorado_hike_pagosa/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07191903-Rock-Crack-Quartz-Hike---Copy.jpg Life's Direction An amazing mountain hike through a mysterious boulder field overlooking a dramatic valley awaits in the South San Juans near Pagosa Springs, CO.  South San Juan Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/526/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A1122-Edit-Mesmerizing-Botantical.jpg Spellbound This beautiful cactus called Euphorbia echinus is only found in Southern Morocco.   Desert Botanical Gardens, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/525/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/large/022A1122-Edit-Mesmerizing-Botantical-Gardens-flat-2---Copy.j Desert Botanical Gardens, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/agave_abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A1171-Edit-agave-2017-botanical-garden---Copy.jpg Desert Perspective The agave is an outstanding specimen of flora for macro abstracts in the Sonoran Desert. The Desert Botanical Gardens are located in East Phoenix between Scottsdale and Tempe. Phoenix Desert Botanical Gardens, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cacti_macro/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A1111-Alients-BG---Copy.jpg Cell Life A closeup view of the Engelmann's Hedgehog cactus at the Desert Botanical Gardens. The Desert Botanical Gardens is located in East Phoenix near Tempe and Scottsdale, Arizona. These cacti are found in the Southwest US as well as Northwestern Mexico. Phoenix Desert Botanical Gardens, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sunset_hike_hawaii/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A0667-Sunset-hike-waves---Copy.jpg Sea Strata I enjoyed timing the sunset waves splashing over tide pools in this intimate cove near Lihue, Hawaii. I discovered this scene during a pleasant hike along the coast.  Kauai https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/kapaa_waves/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A0804-Kauai-Tidal-Coast-Scene---Copy.jpg Island Impact A rocky jetty bears the full force of the ocean waves near the coastal city of Kapaa, Hawaii.  Kauai https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/waimea_waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A0432-waima-waterfall---Copy.jpg GlistenFall A mesmerizing 800-foot waterfall is the one of the biggest attractions on the Hawaiian island of Kauai.  Waimea Canyon State Park, Hawaii https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bandalier_snow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A1180-Bandalier-First-Shot---Copy.jpg Spring's Kiss The last snowstorm of the season occurred on April 30 in New Mexico. This image was captured about 4 hours later while the weather cleared. I found a beautiful blooming agave near the road with a spectacular view of the mountains. A desert dressed in snow is one of the most majestic scenes in nature. Bandalier National Monument is located near Los Alamos, NM.  Bandalier National Monument , NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/desolation_backpacking/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Untitled1Desolotion-Top-Crop-flat---Copy.jpg Segue of Spectacle Backpacking in the central Desolation Wilderness near the Bayview Trailhead. This photo was captured off-trail near Fontanellis and Velma Lakes. The Desolation Wilderness is part of the Sierra Nevada Mountains located near Lake Tahoe, CA.  Desolation Wilderness, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/blue_monsoon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07191391-canyon-de-chelly-sunset---Copy.jpg Light Beacon Sublime sunset light in Canyon De Chelly National Monument amid dark blue monsoonal skies.  Canyon De Chelly National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rainbow_canyon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07191375-HDR-CDC-Rainbow---Copy.jpg Celestial Beckoning I was fortunate to take this moment in alone at Spider Rock, Canyon De Chelly's most iconic viewpoint. The rainbow lasted several minutes and it was raining hard during capture, which was an hour before sunset. Canyon De Chelly is located near the Navajo town of Chinle in northern AZ. Canyon De Chelly National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/canyon_sunrise/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07191401-Edit---Copy-Canyon-de-Chelly-Morning.jpg Sweeping Sunrise A mesmerizing blue hour dawn just minutes before sunrise in Canyon De Chelly NM near Chinle, AZ. Canyon De Chelly National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cactus_worlds/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A1133-macro-flowers-botanical-garden---Copy.jpg Cactus Worlds The Mother of Hundreds cactus is found in Central Mexico. I photographed this specimen at Phoenix's Desert Botanical Gardens. There you'll find interesting symmetry in many types of desert flora and springtime brings colorful blossoms.  Phoenix Desert Botanical Gardens, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/purple_prickly_pear/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A1152-Purple-Flower---Copy.jpg Easter in September A Sonoran desert classic. A purple prickly pear cactus in full bloom.  Phoenix Desert Botanical Gardens, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bandalier/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A1203-Bandalier-Sunrise-flat---Copy.jpg Bandalier Blue Hour A sublime snowy morning near the entrance to Bandalier National Monument after a spring snowstorm in late April. Bandalier NM is located near Los Alamos, New Mexico.  Bandalier National Monument , NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/tent_rocks_triad/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A1265-tent-rocks-final-shot-done---Copy.jpg Tent Rocks Triad Tent Rocks (NM) is a short drive from both Santa Fe and Albuquerque. This image was captured on a sunset hike.  Tents Rocks National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/morning_rush/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A0726-Kaui-Main-Blend-Both-Flat---Copy.jpg Morning Rush A mostly inaccessible stretch of sandstone shoreline made for an appealing sunrise near Poipu Beach, Hawaii. Kauai https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/tidal_patterns/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A0601-Edit-KAUI-flat---Copy.jpg Flow Patterns Incoming and outgoing tidal patterns of the Pacific Ocean intersect at a remote section of shoreline near Poipu Beach, Hawaii.  Kauai https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/upper_frijoles/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A1195-Edit-Bandalier-flat---Copy.jpg The Quiet Spring We enjoyed unusual solitude on our 3-mile hike to 90-foot Upper Frijoles Falls in late April. This waterfall is located near the visitor center and flows into the Rio Grande River. Bandalier National Monument, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/columbinedazzling/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07196563-Edit-1.jpg A Journey's Prize Dazzling conditions just after sunrise at Columbine Lake made for a spectacular morning of photography and exploration. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/flowerscliffqtz/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Flowers-quartz.jpg Lost Vision Staggering wildflowers adorn the side of a unique ridgeline deep within the San Juan National Forest near Pagosa Springs. South San Juan Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mainfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A0440-Main-Fall-Flat-NEW---Copy.jpg Special Flow Famed Wailua Falls is a 83-foot waterfall located near Lihue that feeds into the Wailua River. Kauai https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lastwaterfallkauai/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A0757-Last-Fall-flat---Copy.jpg Dignified Passion Opaeka'a Falls is located near the Wailua River State Park in central Kauai. Opeakaa Falls is part of the north branch of the Wailua River, the 151-foot falls span 40 feet and are easily observed at the Opeakaa Falls overlook off of Kuamoo Road. Kauai, Hawaii https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/503/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Picketpost-Mtn-Flat-website.jpg Picketpost Grandeur Blue hour glow amid saguaro and rock formations near Boyce Arboretum State Park. This mountain is located near the  town of Superior, Arizona.  Tonto National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bluehourcliffs/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A0682-Edit-Cliff-Blue-Hour-flat.jpg Deep Sleep Blue Hour brings out the ocean's subtle colors as seen from sandstone cliffs on the south side of the island. Kauai https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/spider_thundershower/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07191351-Canyon-De-Chelly-First-Shot---Copy.jpg And Justice For All Dramatic afternoon thunderstorms illuminate Spider Rock in a remote corner of the park. Canyon De Chelley is located near Chinle, AZ on the Navajo Indian Reservation. Canyon De Chelly National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/polihale/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A0405-Pohale-Beach-flat-large.jpg Tide Lines Tide lines show off the surf and sunrise near the northern end of Polihale  State Park. This beach is a 75-minute drive from the capital city of Lihue. Polihale Beach State Park, Kauai https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/nosunsetpics/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/022A1257-tent-rocks---Copy.jpg The Illuminati Tent Rocks National Monument closes before sunset and the rangers will not let visitors stay in the park for photography without a special, prearranged agreement. The park is conveniently located near both Santa Fe and Albuquerque, NM.  Tents Rocks National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hlmicon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/HLM-Icon.jpg Cloud Wars An iconic view from the southern tip of the second Highland Mary Lake in the Weminuche Wilderness on a stormy summer day. Highland Mary Lakes is located near the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and is accessible from various routes near South Fork, Creede, Durango, and Silverton. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cascadecolorado/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Top-of-Cunnigham--Copy.jpg Cascading Serenity An impressive cascade along the Highland Mary Lakes Trail roars during a rainy summer's morning. This waterfall hike is located near Silverton, Colorado in the San Juan National Forest. Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/summers_dawn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07196534---sunrise-Columbine-Lake-2.jpg Summer's Dawn Colorful alpenglow reflects off of teal blue water during a summer's dawn at Columbine Lake. This hiking trail is located near Silverton, Colorado. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/betterweather/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07195900-Fuller-1-FLAT---Copy.jpg Weather Transitions Shot named after the erratic weather patterns near Fuller Lake. It hailed four times over six hours. This hike is located near Silverton, Colorado in the San Juan National Forest. Ice Lake Basin, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cunnighamgulchwaterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07196270-Crossfall-Flat-Edit-NEW---Copy.jpg Cross Fade This waterfall is named after the pattern of the water above the rock. Cunningham Gulch was flowing high in August of 2017. This hiking trail is found near Silverton, Colorado. Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/thelorax/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07196047-Edit-The-Lorax-2---Copy-NEW.jpg The Lorax Reminds me of a scene from the book I read as a child (I never saw the movie). Dark monsoonal skies make the eerie peaks near Fuller Lake come alive amid elephant flowers and yellow paintbrush. Ice Lake Basin, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/fuller-paintbrush/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07195867-the-horrible-blend-flat---Copy.jpg A Paintbrush Afternoon Spectacular magenta paintbrush adorn an alpine lake bank in the San Juan National Forest near Silverton, Colorado. Ice Lake Basin, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/dyar_tribute/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07195830-Dyar-Ice-Lake-Blend-FLAT---Copy.jpg Dyar Tribute A closeup version of flaming magenta indian paintbrush caught my attention while exploring on a hike near Silverton, Colorado. This image is named after Ryan Dyar, a popular landscape photographer from the Pacific Northwest who frequently employs a near - far style. Ice Lakes Basin, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/quartz_evening/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07191731-HDR-above-quartz-flat---Copy-2.jpg High Life An evening portrait of Quartz Lake in the San Juan National Forest south of Pagosa Springs, Colorado. South San Juan Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/snowtunnel/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07191696-Ice-Tunnel-Done.jpg Tunnel Vision I  I fulfilled a vision for this snow tunnel shot while hiking and backpacking at Quartz Lake in the San Juan Mountains near Pagosa Springs. The trail is located near the New Mexico - Colorado state line. South San Juan Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/summer_sunburst/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07191654-Aspen-Sunstar-flat---Copy.jpg Guiding Light An intimate grove of aspens shelters a small, grassy meadow harboring a wildflower cornocopia of sneezeweed and white daisies. This sunburst was shot on a summer morning while exploring the San Juan Mountains near Pagosa Springs, Colorado.  South San Juan Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mirrolakesunrise/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/07191520-Dollar-Sunrise-Align.jpg Reflected Wonder Morning reflections at the incredible Mirror Lake nestled on a cliff in a rugged portion of the San Juans Mountains near Bayfield.  Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/creek-of-wonder/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9219-Edit-The-Creek-Recovered-1---Copy.jpg Creek of Wonder An incredible creek cuts through lush foliage deep in the heart of the South San Juan Wilderness. Learn more about this amazing spot in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking and Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. South San Juan Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/storm-at-blue-lakes/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/stream-storm-blue-lake-flat---Copy.jpg Before the Storm Dramatic storm clouds just minutes before a serious storm caused flash flooding at Blue Lakes Basin near Ridgway Colorado in the San Juan Mountains. Mount Sneffels Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/white-sands-epic-sunrise-4/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4810-soft-one-flat---Copy.jpg The Grand Finale The final image of a series of captures as I wandered the backcountry of White Sands National Monument during fantastical sunrise and full moonset. These sand dunes are located outside of Las Cruces, New Mexico. White Sands National Monument, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/desert-solitaire/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4824-Edit-moonset-white-sands---Copy.jpg Desert Solitaire Traveling deep into the backcountry I was fortunate to capture the full moon setting as the first rays of light hit the dunes in front of me. The area is in the mountain-ringed Tularosa Basin and comprises the southern part of a 275 square miles field of white sand dunes composed of gypsum crystals. It is the largest gypsum dune field in the world. White Sands National Monument, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/white-sands-epic-sunrise-3/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4809-wide-angle-white-sands-sunrise---Copy.jpg Adrift in a Dream This image features peak colors of a fantastic sunrise during a full moon set in the backcountry of White Sands National Monument outside of Las Cruces New Mexico. The white sand reflects an amalgamation of the colors of the sky. White Sands National Monument, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/white-sands-epic-sunrise-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4805-Edit-dark-dunes-sunrise-flat-FULL-2---Copy.jpg Light Beacons You are looking at a portion of an epic sunrise that produced magnificent colors and traveled across the sky lasting for quite some time. This image was captured during a full moon, which produces exceptional lighting quality. These sand dunes are located outside of Las Cruces, New Mexico. White Sands National Monument, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/white-sands-epic-sunrise-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4799-Edit---Copy-Dune-Epic-Sunrise-Revisit.jpg Dunes of Fantasy You are looking at the nascent stages of an epic sunrise that produced magnificent colors and traveled across the sky lasting for quite some time. This image was captured during a full moon, which produces exceptional lighting quality. These sand dunes are located outside of Las Cruces, New Mexico. White Sands National Monument, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/white-sands-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4766-white-sands---Copy.jpg Time Flight A long exposure of an eerie yet colorful sunset as seen in the backcountry of White Sands National Monument. These sand dunes are located outside of Las Cruces, New Mexico. White Sands National Monument, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/texas-sunset-reflections/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_5352-What-Dreams-May-Come-FLAT---Copy.jpg What Dreams May Come A dried lake bed became a sea of reflections during a surreal sunset just outside of Guadalupe Mountains National Park (West Texas) in late autumn after a series of rains. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/agave/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_5071-agave-new---Copy.jpg Soaked in Rain I stumbled upon this picture-perfect specimen of an agave while hiking along El Capitan trail. On my return route, the skies open up and in started pouring rain. Carrying an umbrella I spent about 15 minutes photographing abstracts of this gorgeous specimen. The Guadalupe Mountains are located in West Texas. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/texas-inversion/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_5248-Edit-2-mtn-in-disguise-flat---Copy.jpg Mountain in Disguise A rare inversion covered most of the profile of the Guadalupe Mountains (West Texas) western escarpment in fog during a bright and sunny blue bird day. Captured during a mid-morning autumn visit. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sunset-guadalupe/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_5167-thors-fortress-flat---Copy.jpg Thor's Fortress I classically framed this composition with massive boulders during an incredibly dramatic autumn sunset just outside of the Guadalupe Mountains in West Texas. The sky turned orange and the mountains glowed yellow with whisps of clouds. This light lasted for maybe 5 minutes. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/madrone-autumn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_5145-Texas-Madrone---Copy.jpg The Madrone Alliance The fascinating Texas madrone is abundantly found in Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas. This specimen was captured during peak autumn colors along the Smith Spring Trail. The madrone tree doesn't shed its leaves in the winter and features berries in the fall and flowers in the spring. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/devils-hall-colors/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_5008-red-forest-flat---Copy.jpg Red Forest A beautiful display of autumn can be found while hiking along the Devil's Hall Trail in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas. This image features a vivid display of fall colors including pink, orange, yellow and neon green. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sunrise-guadalupe/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4880-jigsaw-sunrise-flat---Copy.jpg The Burning Desert I captured this vivid fiery sunrise not far from the Pine Springs Campground. A large prickly pear cactus turned bright red as the sun rose above the horizon on a stormy morning. The whole mountain profile turned a crimson red for several minutes. The Guadalupe Mountains are located in West Texas and feature the state's highest peak. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/guadalupe-mtns-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4854-nightfall-volume-1-2---Copy.jpg Life Force Flowering brittlebush and boulders frame the foreground during a colorful autumn sunset near Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/el-capitan/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4842-agave-el-captain-flat---Copy2.jpg Star of the Mountains At 8,064 feet El Capitan is the 8th highest peak in Texas and the southern escarpment of the Guadalupe Mountains. Shown here in the late afternoon framed by an agave. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/alpine-view-sloan/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0007-initial-blend-long-american-basin-FULL-.jpg Heart of the Mountains Old-man-of-the-mountain commonly referred to as an alpine sunflower grace the higher reaches of American Basin en route to 14,058 foot Handies Peak. Sloan Lake and deep western views of the San Juan Mountains are also visible below. Gunnison National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rough-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/rough-creek-IMG_8984---Copy.jpg Summer's Playtime Remote Rough Creek Falls is located in the heart of the South San Juan Wilderness. The falls are found in a sandstone ravine, which gives it a uniquely southwestern look. This waterfall is located in South Central Colorado. Rio Grande National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/flowers-above-sloan/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0027-3rd-shot-above-Sloan-flat---Copy.jpg The Calling I used colorful paintbrush and asters to fill the foreground of this perch just above Sloan Lake in American Basin. This area is a hotspot for summer wildflowers and is located just beneath Cinnamon Pass between the towns of Silverton and Lake City. Learn more about this exciting spot in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. Gunnison National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lilypond/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9671-Lily-Pond-1---Copy.jpg Lily's on the Clouds The lily pond is a peaceful and photogenic drive-up location in the San Juan Mountains near the fly-fishing village of Platoro. Learn more about this place in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. Rio Grande National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/tree_abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9614-Edit---stormlit-trees-full-layers.jpg Light Needles Storm light subtly illuminates a mountainside of conifers in varying stages of health allowing for the creation of a colorful abstract. I captured this image in the South San Juan Wilderness near the remote fly-fishing village of Platoro. Rio Grande National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/san-juan-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9575-creek-bushwhack---Copy.jpg In the Nest of Water A tricky bushwack through deep, wet foliage was required to make this image of an unnamed creek in the South San Juan Wilderness. This wilderness is located in South Central Colorado. Rio Grande National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/san-juan-creek-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9564-1-Best-Creek-flat---Copy.jpg Canvas of the Creek Prolific foliage decorates a picturesque creek in the South San Juan Wilderness located in South Central Colorado. Rio Grande National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/conejos-san-juan/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9375-HDR-sunset-glare-tobacco-flat---Copy.jpg Dreaming of Solitude The last rays of sunlight from a distant horizon grace the waters of Tobacco Lake as an overnight summer storm settles in. This lake is located at 12,400 feet and is in the South San Juan Wilderness located in South Central Colorado. This lake lies just beneath Conejos Peak, the highest point in the wilderness. Read more about this beautiful spot in my ebook. Rio Grande National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aspen-autumn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4680-Edit---Copy.jpg Colorful Colorado Diffused afternoon light on a beautiful day accentuates the colors of green, blue and gold in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness located outside of Aspen, CO. White River National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aspen-gold/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4496-Edit-golden-aspens-mom---Copy.jpg The Gold Standard A picturesque grove of golden aspen trees shines in late afternoon, autumn storm light. Captured after a fresh rainfall on Castle Creek Road outside of Aspen, Colorado. White River National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/crater-lake-aspen/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4461-crater-lake-aspen-flat---Copy.jpg A Time of Transition You are looking at an autumn scene at Crater Lake in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness near Aspen Colorado. It is approximately a 2 mile, one-way hike to this fall color hot spot. White River National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aspen-gorge/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4389-gorge-aspen---Copy.jpg The Whispering Gorge Located just outside of the mountain town of Aspen, CO is a quaint, yet stunning gorge found along highway 82 near Independence Pass. This picture was captured in the fall on a stormy day. The overcast light accentuates the rock's southwestern colors. White River National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/navajo-storm/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0990-navajo-initial-blend---Copy.jpg Journey's Exclamation Navajo Lake is a popular backcountry destination for hikers and rock climbers located in the Lizard Head Wilderness outside of Telluride. Learn more about this special location in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sloan-lake-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0296-Edit-1-sloan-flowers-2-flat---Copy.jpg A New Offering 2016 marked a fine year for yellow paintbrush in the San Juan Mountains. Pictured here is Sloan Lake in American Basin located just beneath Cinnamon Pass between the towns of Silverton and Lake City Colorado. Read about photography and hiking at this location in my ebook. Gunnison National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ebook/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Book-Cover1---Copy.jpg https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lower_blue_vertical/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Lower-Blue-Stream-2-flat---Copy.jpg Rush of Beauty Lower Blue Lake during peak wildflower season as seen from a tributary on a partly cloudy day. Find this lake near the town of Ridgway in the Mount Sneffels Wilderness in Southwestern Colorado. Learn more in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/crater-ravine/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_7949----Above-Ravine.jpg Above the Ravine A spectacular ravine near Crater Lake in the South San Juan Wilderness near South Fork. Learn more about this beautiful location in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/crater-blue-hour/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_7936-Crater-San-Juan-Original-Blend---Copy.jpg Twilight's Rest Blue hour at Crater Lake in the South San Juan Wilderness near South Fork. Learn more about this beautiful location in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/crater-golden-light/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_7896-HDR-Crater-late-afternoon---Copy.jpg Majestic Imposition Late afternoon golden light at Crater Lake in the South San Juan Wilderness near South Fork. Learn more about this exciting spot in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cataract-day/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_7686-Cataract-3-flat---Copy.jpg Day of Favor A beautiful August day at Cataract Lake near the Continental Divide and Lake City. Learn more about this unique location in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. Gunnison National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hope_meadow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4190-Edit-hope-flat---Copy.jpg Nature's Celebration Hope Lake is a popular hiking destination near Telluride. Read about this hike and the photographic possibilities in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking and Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/woods-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_3624-Woods-Lake-Full-Layers-B-Flat---Copy.jpg Calming Presence Woods Lake on a hazy, placid afternoon in mid-August. Read more about this special location near Telluride and the Lizard Head Wilderness in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bullion-king-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_3506-Bullion-King-Lake-flat---Copy.jpg The King's Eye Early morning light at Porphyry Basin above Bullion King Lake near Ouray, Colorado. Learn all about hiking and photography at this special place in my ebook. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/crater-lake-weminuche/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_3483-Crater-Lake-flat---Copy3.jpg Crimson Reflections Sunrise alpenglow from the marshy banks of Crater Lake in the Weminuche Wilderness. Find more information for this location in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/crater-lake-weminuche_1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_3447-HDR-Crater-Lake-night-Full---Copy.jpg Peaceful Rest Enjoying a quiet evening near my campsite at Crater Lake in the Weminuche Wilderness. Find more information for this location in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hlm-waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_3408-HLM-waterfall---Copy.jpg Welcome to the Wilderness A quaint waterfall near "The Forks" on the Highland Mary Lake Trail. Highland Mary Lakes is part of the Weminuche Wilderness and is located near Silverton. Read more about this hike and how to photograph this location in my ebook. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/island_lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_3153-Island-Lake-Outlet-finished---Copy.jpg Glow of the Wild Impressive light accentuates the amazing color of Island Lake. Learn more about this exciting spot in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/weminuche_sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_2980-pigeon-turret-finished---Copy1.jpg An Evening to Remember Sunset on Pigeon and Turret Peaks in the Weminuche Wilderness backcountry near Durango, Colorado. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lewis-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_2554-Lewis-Lake-Large-Flat---Copy.jpg Cirque of Solitude Afternoon light at Lewis Lake above Bridal Veil Basin near Telluride. Learn more about this exciting spot in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/michaelgreene_book_page61/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_2459-Kiss-of-the-Columbine-flat---Copy-Recovered.jpg Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/middle-blue-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_2158-Middle-Blue-Finished---Copy-book.jpg Tears of Warmth Sunset above Middle Blue Lake in the Mount Sneffels Wilderness near Ridgway. Learn more in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/spectacular-sunrise/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_1728-Edit-Velocity-sunrise-light-flat---Copy.jpg Alpine Fireworks An amazing sunrise over an unnamed lake near Silverton, Colorado. Learn more about this location in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking and Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hematite-3/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_1710-Edit-Hematite-Cover---Copy.jpg Basin Decorations Overlooking Hematite Lake from a treacherous perch. This lake is reached via a difficult hike outside the mountain town of Silverton. Read about the details in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/clear-lake-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_1518-Clear-Lake-evening-sunset.jpg Clarity Evening light across Clear Lake, an iconic photo location of the San Juan Mountains. Read about photography tips at this spot in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking and Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/velocity-emblem/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_3544-Velocity-Emblem---Copy.jpg Velocity Emblem A colorful, abstract image of an unnamed lake near Silverton. Learn more about this secret spot in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking and Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hematite_hike/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_3357-hematite-hike-trees2---Copy.jpg Light Descension Dramatic views abound on the hike to Hematite Lake near Silverton. Learn more about this spectacular location in my ebook, Capturing Colorado Hiking & Photographing Lakes of the San Juan Mountains. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/palouse/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_5120-as-Palousse-flat.jpg Room with a View Golden light caresses the rolling green landscape of the Palouse in Eastern Washington. Captured in late spring.  Kamiak Butte County Park, WA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sunshine_alley/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Greene_CO_Aspen-Sunburst.jpg Sunshine Alley Sunshine bursts through a remote stand of aspens in the San Juan National Forest. This scene was captured in late autumn on Middle Mountain Road near the boundaries of the Weminuche Wilderness outside of Bayfield, CO. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lassen-painted/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_1224-as-pained-desert-2-flat.jpg The Awesome Creation A bird's eye view of the incredible painted desert in the northern reaches of Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northern California. Lassen Volcanic National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/triple-falls/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0396--triple-falls-flat.jpg Triple Falls You are looking a beautiful Terrace Falls in McDowell Creek County Park. This waterfall can be found in an isolated part of western Oregon near Eugene. McDowell Creek County Park, OR https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/horton-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Greene_AZ_Horton-Cascades-2015.jpg Cascades of Color A smorgasbord of color during a blustery autumn day at Horton Creek outside of the Central Arizona mountain town of Payson on the Mogollon Rim. Tonto National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/yaki/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_8727-thanksgiving-Canyon--flat-2-copy.jpg The Light of Hope Afternoon storm light casts wicked contrast in a section of the South Rim near Yaki and Mather Points in the Grand National Park in Northern Arizona in late autumn. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mohave/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_8718-Grand-Canyon-Done-copy.jpg Dappled Storm Light Mohave Point An incoming storm creates beautiful dappled light at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in late autumn. This was captured at Mohave Point. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ruby-road-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4229-blend-flat-2-copy.jpg International Boundary Monsoon light at sunset reflecting on a striking rock monument as seen from Ruby Road near Nogales, Arizona and the international border. Coronado National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/tonto-autumn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/D_5401_Greene-copy.jpg Mixture of the Seasons A smorgasbord of color during a blustery autumn day at Horton Creek outside of the Central Arizona mountain town of Payson on the Mogollon Rim. Tonto National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/phoenix-mountains/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Phx-Mt-Sunset-1006-copy.jpg Phoenix Birthday Sunset Incredible storm light illuminates the sky a bright orange red at sunset in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve in Central Phoenix near the Biltmore. This image was from a birthday hike at the 32nd Street trailhead. The Phoenix Mountains are the most popular hiking destination in Arizona. I used a trio of barrel cacti to anchor the foreground for this composition. Phoenix Mountain Preserve, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ruby-road-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/D_4237_Greene-1-copy.jpg Border Patrol Monsoon light at sunset reflecting on a striking rock monument as seen from Ruby Road near Nogales, Arizona and the international border. Coronado National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/shasta-waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0776-2-McCloud-Blend-Base-FLAT-CROP.jpg Fountains of the Forest Middle McCloud Falls is certainly one of the most photogenic waterfalls in Northern California. This was captured during peak spring run off in the midst of a prolonged drought. Shasta-Trinity National Forest, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mccloud-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0781-McCloud-Creek-2-FLAT-copy.jpg Forged By Water A precarious position above Upper McCloud Falls in Northern California allowed me to capture this unusual waterfall world of flumes, chasms, and potholes. Shasta-Trinity National Forest, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/colorado-rainbow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4323-rainbow-breckenridge-flat-copy.jpg End of the Rainbow A dramatic scene of weather and light unfolded near the summit of Boreas Pass on my autumn visit to the mountains near Breckenridge, Colorado. This rainbow was close enough to reach out and touch it. The display lasted about 5 minutes. White River National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/striking-gold/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4341-aspen-flat-copy-Recovered.jpg Striking Gold Mid morning transitions from rain and clouds to sun in the Elk Mountains outside of Silverthorne, Colorado. Captured in the heart of autumn, the dappled light paints a glorious image of red and gold juxtaposed with deep blue skies. White River National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ashcroft-autumn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4554-HDR-ghost-town-aspen-flat-copy.jpg Rustic Renewal This is a rustic building from Ashcroft, one of the most well preserved ghost towns in Colorado. Located outside of Aspen, this image was captured during late afternoon storm light during peak autumn colors. White River National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/maroon-bells-autumn-morning/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4603-HDR-Bells-Morning-flat-copy-Recovered.jpg Autumn's Orchestra The mountains rejoice on a delightful autumn morning in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness. This colorful image features the warm purple tones of the peaks, a dazzling array of gold from aspens, red berries, bronze ground cover, green conifers, and blue bird skies. Aspen, Colorado dressed in its finest colors. White River National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/andrews-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_3120-Andrews-Lake-copy.jpg Subalpine Storm Palette A quiet, sombre sunset reflects splendid light on Andrew's Lake near Molass Pass as storms through the nearby Weminuche Wilderness in southwestern Colorado. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/chelley/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_2719-as-Smart-Object-1-Canyon-de-Chelley-Flat-copy.jpg The Sky Punisher Threatening skies greeted me during my first trip to Canyon de Chelly. Arizona's most famous national monument is located near the town of Chinle, which is part of the Navajo Indian Reservation. Canyon De Chelley National Monument, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/maroon_bells/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9173-Bells-initial-flat.jpg Rock the Bells Seven inches of overnight snowfall made my first visit to Maroon Bells uniquely special. While spectacular anytime of the year, these 14ers look extra amazing with a fresh coat of snow and golden aspens in the foreground. White River National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/telluride-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_2459-Kiss-of-the-Columbine-flat-copy.jpg Kiss of the Columbine A unique array of Columbine wildflowers captured my attention while hiking in the San Juan Mountains outside of Telluride on a beautiful summer day. Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/henderson_lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Henderson-Lake-IMG_3115-flat-copy.jpg Storm on Henderson Henderson Lake is a relatively obscure, yet picturesque lake located on Missionary Ridge outside of Durango, Colorado. Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lewis_lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_2520-as-Lewis-2-FLAT-copy.jpg Crown of Light At 12, 700 ft the Lewis Lake Basin located near the top of Orphir Pass is one of the higher alpine lakes in the San Juan Mountains. Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/gold_king/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_4058-Recovered-copy.jpg Solid Gold Gold King Basin is an easily accessible location for photography near Telluride, Colorado on the road to Alta Lakes in the San Juan Mountains. Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lime_mesa/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_2854-Overlook-Point-Flat-copy.jpg Overlook Point This is a view of Ruby Lake located deep within the Weminuche Wilderness - Colorado's largest wilderness area. The deep views are of Pigeon (13, 978 ft) and Turret (13, 8761 ft) Peaks on a beautiful, stormy summer afternoon. Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/navajo/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_3799-flat-finished-Navajo-2-copy.jpg The Mirror's Prism Navajo Lake is a popular backcountry destination for hikers and rock climbers located in the Lizard Head Wilderness outside of Telluride, Colorado and is part of the San Juan Mountains. Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mystic/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/untitled-4160-Mystic-Layers-FLAT-rotation-crop-copy.jpg Mystic Mystery Mystic Falls is a secluded, pristine waterfall located near the small mountain town of Orphir on the Colorado 145 outside of Telluride in the San Juan Mountains. Orphir, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lassen-barn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Barn-IMG_1022-flat-5.jpg Weight of the World I was fascinated by this old barn on a recent trip to CA. It was raining hard when I captured this image. I was holding my own umbrella. It was a combination of 2 exposures manually blended for dynamic range. This was about the best angle I could find.  Lassen National Forest, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/burney-falls/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0841-burney-detail.jpg Spring of Overflow Intimate detail of the massive amount of water and lush vegetation that comprises the cliffs surrounding Burney Falls, in Northern CA. The water comes from underground springs above and at the falls, which are 129 feet high, and provides an almost constant flow rate of 379 million litres per day. The falls were called "the Eighth Wonder of the World" by President Theodore Roosevelt and were declared a National Natural Landmark in December 1954. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/photo-6/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_dunes-flowers_0369-flat-3-crop-1.jpg The Gathering Storm I found this pocket of sunflowers while exploring the front portion of the Great Sand Dunes during the summer monsoon season. I shot this scene for probably an hour as the sky and light on the dunes were constantly changing. Got a vicious sunburn too! The rain finally came about 4 hours later. The peak dune in the background is the tallest in the United States. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/silver-falls/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0318-creek-silver-falls-flat-crop1.jpg Silver Falls Seclusion The lower than average seasonal water levels of Silver Creek opened up this scene to me while exploring the miles of hiking trails in Silver Falls SP, OR. The background was a brilliant yellow-green at the peak of spring color. Silver Falls State Park, Oregon https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sand-ripples/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/sand-ripples-flat-2.jpg Ripples of Time I used a telephoto lens to compress the sand patterns of the front dunes in Great Sand Dunes NP while exploring during summer monsoon season. These Dunes are the tallest in the US. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/crater-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0564-as-Crater-Lake-flat-copy1.jpg A Hope For Tomorrow I only had one sunset and one view point to photograph during my first visit to his secluded national park in the southern OR. Crater Lake is truly an amazing wonder. There are no rivers flowing into or out of the lake; the evaporation is compensated for by rain and snowfall at a rate such that the total amount of water is replaced every 250 years. At 1,943 feet the lake is the deepest in the United States, and the seventh or ninth deepest in the world, depending on whether average or maximum depth is measured. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sand-dunes-sunrise/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_1410-pastel-dawn.jpg Pastel Dawn A stormy sunrise atop the Kelso Dunes in the Southeastern portion of the Mohave National Preserve in California. These sand dunes, the tallest in the state, are located near the Nevada and Arizona borders. Mohave Desert National Preserve, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rainbow-painted-desert/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_1453-DONE-crop-copy.jpg Morning of Passion I was fortunate to witness the best light of a rare June storm front over the Little Painted Desert County Park near Winslow, AZ. One of my favorite places in the state to explore and take pictures. The rainbow didn't last long... Little Painted Desert County Park, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bisti-storm/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_storm-bisti-flat-combo-copy.jpg Run Over By A Storm This one was a little close for comfort in the high desert of NM. My Northface tent was literally turned upside down as I scrambled in for cover when it started pouring rain. I scurried out in my socks after it was safe enough to clear, which was right at sunset. I could literally reach up and touch the clouds...Quite a backpacking experience. The immense power of this micro storm as it passed was eye opening experience. Bisti Wilderness, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hoodoos-6/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9467-Hoodoos-.jpg Edge of the Pit Morning light shines deep into the heart of hoodoo country in Bryce Canyon National Park located in Garfield County, UT. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hoodoos-5/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9458-Hoodoos-2.jpg Trees Meet Earth Morning light illuminates the rolling countryside of hoodoos and trees in Bryce Canyon National Park, UT. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hoodoos-4/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9399-hoodoo-4.jpg Into the Fire The first rays of light ignite the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park in Garfield County, UT. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bryce-tree/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9215-Tree-blend-flat.jpg Celebration of Life A weather tested pine tree thrives at the edge of Bryce Canyon and is adorned by dramatic clouds in Garfield County, UT. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bryce-sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9245-storm-over-Bryce.jpg Sky Resistance A massive carpet of clouds decorates the edge of Bryce Canyon National Park, UT at sunset. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hoodoos-3/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9726_hoodoos-6-flat-crop.jpg The Divine Council A dignified array of hoodoos captured in late afternoon light on a hike in Bryce Canyon amidst dramatic blue skies in Garfield County, UT. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/snow-storm-grand-canyon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_8813-as-agave-wide-flat.jpg Agave Snow Light A rare glimpse into the canyon as storm clouds briefly parted during a several days of snow at the Grand Canyon. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sunrise-snow-grand-canyon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_8874-sunrise-blend-layers-3.jpg Heaven's Wonderland Sunshine and lingering clouds accentuated the splendid scenery during sunrise at Grand Canyon NP after a winter snowstorm. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/grand-canyon-snow-morning/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_8892-as-Canyon-HDR.jpg Castles Made of Snow Sunrise yields golden light as an overnight winter's storm lingers over the North Rim of the Grand Canyon in Northern Arizona. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/snow-cliff/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_8986-Canyon-Snow-Cliff.jpg The Snow Cliff Mid afternoon scenery is decorated in snow after a storm at the Grand Canyon in Northern Arizona. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/fight-for-light/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9027-Grandview-Clouds.jpg Fight for Light Storm clouds move swiftly through the canyon near Grandview Point as the the sun shines brightly from above making for extreme contrasts in light and color. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/mountain-color-and-frost_5076-flat.jpg Clash of the Elements Vibrant fall foliage, sunshine, blue skies, and frozen conifers form an abstract image that is unmistakably Colorado. White River National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/owl-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Owl-Creek_4757.jpg Stacked Towering cliffs hoover above a glowing grove of aspens during peak fall foliage in the Uncompahgre National Forest in SW CO near Owl Creek Pass. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mather-point/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_9113-as-Smart-Object-1.jpg Red Kingdom Blue hour at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, AZ after a clearing winter snow storm. Captured near Mather Point. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cataract-lake-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_7782-lake-overview-flat.jpg The Sky Rider A high vantage point above Cataract Lake, a prime backcountry destination in the San Juan Mountains. The trailhead for this lake is located near the alpine town of Lake City, CO. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/san-juan-alpen-glow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/lake-sunset_3556-new-Mod.jpg The Grand Finale A unnamed tarn accentuates the beauty of a dramatic sunset during the final moments of evening light in the San Juan Mountains. This area is located near the alpine town of Silverton, CO. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/photo-5/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/horizontaltotempolebw.jpg The Waiting Game After nearly five days of continuous rain, the skies finally parted allowing for this colorful capture of the sand dunes surrounding the Yei-Bi-Chei Rocks & Totem Pole formation in the Monument Valley Tribal Park. The park is located on the Arizona-Utah border near Kayenta, AZ. Monument Valley Tribal Park, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hoodoos-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/hoodos-bryce-2015.jpg Kingdom Glow Morning glow around the massive hoodoos in the Bryce Amphitheater near Inspiration Point located outside Bryce Canyon City in southern Utah. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-color/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Greene_CO_3864-fun-with-colors.jpg Pastel Flow An incredible display of autumn color the morning after a light snow in the mountains outside of Crested Butte, Colorado. Gunnison National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/porphyry-basin/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Greene_CO_3361-Bullion-King.jpg Wicked Skies, Wonderful Flowers High altitude weather threatens the indian paintbrush below Bullion King Lake, which is part of the Porphyry Basin in SE Colorado. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-leaves-jones-gap/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Jones-Gap-Rock-Run-2.jpg Diagonal Recourse The Middle Saluda River is the states oldest designated national scenic river. This image was captured during peak autumn colors. Jones Gap State Park is located in northern Greenville County, near Marietta, SC. The 3,964-acre park, along with the adjoining Caesars Head State Park, are part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness. Jones Gap State Park, South Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/fall-leaves-sc/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Jones-Gap-Fall-Leaves.jpg Society of the Disengaged A variety of fallen leaves decorate the forest floor on the upper reaches of Jones Gap Trail near it's border with Caesars Head State Park, which together comprise the Mountain Bridge Wilderness in western SC near Marietta. I had fun looking for autumn scenes like this, which was not arranged or manipulated in any way. Jones Gap State Park, South Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-smokies/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Big-Creek-Downstream-Flow.jpg Dropping Into Color The massive boulders of Big Creek are decorated with autumn leaves amidst a backdrop of fall colors. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/galiuro-mountains-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Z-smooth.jpg The Water's Code Prolific autumn colors (at least for Arizona) decorate the water's edge in the Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness. This wilderness is part of the Coronado National Forest in Southeastern AZ. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/coronado-forest/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/A-Special-Place.jpg A Burning Heart Autumn colors grace a massive sycamore tree buried deep in a hidden and relatively unknown slot canyon in the Aravaipa Wilderness. This wilderness is part of the Coronado National Forest in Southeastern AZ. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/fog-and-barn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/foggy-barn.jpg The Quiet Life This barn and field image was captured during a quiet, foggy, summer Sunday morning outside of the rustic mountain town of Crede, CO.  Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/great-smoky-mountains-fave/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/the-never-ending-journey.jpg The Never Ending Journey Probably my favorite image from my autumn trip to the Great Smoky Mountains captured near the NC - TN border. The Smoky Mountains are part of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachian Mountain chain. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rapid-detail-smoky-mountains/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/smoky-close-up.jpg Rapid Dichotomy I was attracted to this autumn scene of rapids located on the Big Creek Trail near the TN-NC border in Great Smoky Mountains, NP. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bryson-city/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/bryson-city-bridge.jpg Bridge Over Rowland I captured this autumn view from a bridge while crossing Rowland Creek trail in the mid morning. The trail is located near Bryson City, NC. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/jones-gap/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/sideview-slick-rock-jones-gap.jpg The Playful Forest Jones Gap State Park is located in northern Greenville County, near Marietta, SC. The 3,964-acre (1,604 ha) park, which includes the headwaters of the Middle Saluda River, is, with Caesars Head State Park, administered by the state Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism as part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness. This image of a large slick rock cascade was captured during peak autumn colors. Jones Gap State Park, South Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-beauty-of-decline/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/past-peak-creek-smokies1.jpg The Beauty of Decline The fading colors of autumn on Bradley Fork are on display here at nightfall near the Smokemont Campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park outside of Cherokee, NC. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mountain-bridge-waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/jones-gap-waterfall.jpg Welcome to the Jungle You are looking at a an unnamed waterfall on the Jones Gap Trail in Jones Gap State Park. This park is home to the state's oldest designated national scenic river - the Middle Saluda and is located near Marietta, SC in the western portion of the state. Together with its neighbor Caesars Head State Park this area is called the Mountain Bridge Wilderness. Jones Gap State Park, South Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-creek-nc/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/double-stack-1.jpg Fluency Patters I had to get my feet wet for this particular autumn image and the water was ice cold. You are looking at Rowland Creek located near the charming town of Bryson City, NC. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-creek-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/creek-flow-bryson-city1.jpg Graceful Waters An iconic autumn image of a soothing and scenic section of Rowland Creek. This area is located outside of Bryson City, NC and along the Road to Nowhere in the southern terminus of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/bryson-city-spout.jpg Autumn Spout An autumn image of a particularly narrow and scenic portion of Rowland Creek located outside of Bryson City, NC and along the Road to Nowhere in the southern terminus of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/big-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Big-Creek-Boulder-CU_5930.jpg Circular Motion A delightful autumn scene of colorful foliage, massive boulders and raging rapids near the TN-NC border in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachian Mountain Chain. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/watson-lake-aspen/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/watson-lake-tree.jpg Hidden Aspen, Granite Dells I noticed this solitary aspen tree nestled amongst the granite dells while waiting to photograph sunset over Watson Lake during the autumn season. Prescott, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/agua-fria-nm-rabbitbrush/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Twin-Peaks-Agua-Fria.jpg Rabbitbrush Autumn Prolific, blooming rabbitbrush dominate an otherwise barren landscape with dark, ominous skies completing this desert picture. Agua Fria National Monument, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/tonto-national-forest-view/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/the-forgotten-sojourn.jpg The Forgotten Sojourn A variety of cacti including the prickly pear cactus lead the viewers' eye into the foreboding horizon of a remote portion of Tonto National Forest in Central Arizona. Dramatic skies and light complete this desert picture. Agua Fria National Monument, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/moonrise-over-pelonchillo/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/moonrise-over-pelonchillo.jpg Moonrise Over Pelonchillo Century plants dot the horizon as a full moon rises over the Pelonchillo Mountains and the San Simon Valley in far southeastern Arizona. The Pelonchillo Mountains are some of the most remote mountains in Arizona and straddle the New Mexico border. This vantage was captured from the foothills of the Chiricahua Mountains near the small village of Portal. Coronado National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/north-rim-grand-canyon-storm/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Grand-Canyon-Clearing-Storm.jpg Inversion of the Tempest You are looking at a 25 second exposure of a clearing storm at Point Imperial from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, AZ. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/flagstaff-aspen-autumn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/flagstaff-through-the-trees.jpg Through the Trees Dramatic, golden foliage of aspen trees form a tight canopy in the high mountains of Lockett Meadow near Flagstaff, Arizona. This image was captured in early October during the peak of autumn colors. Kachina Peaks Wilderness, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/agua-fria-rocks/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/agua-fria-rocks-moonrise-november.jpg Prehistoric Acumen A jumble of boulders in the rolling grasslands of Agua Fria National Monument is dressed in the warm glow of a fading sunset as a full moon beckons in the background. Agua Fria NM is located between the towns of Black Canyon City and Prescott and borders the Tonto National Forest in Central Arizona. Agua Fria National Monument, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/gunnison-autumn-view/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/ohio-creek-pass.jpg Still Life A dramatic late morning view of the incredible fall colors of the Gunnison National Forest as storm clouds quickly moved into the area located near Crested Butte, CO. Gunnison National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/kebler-autumn-rain/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Kebler-Ponds.jpg Kebler Autumn Rain A rainy afternoon view of the wetlands and forest surrounding Kebler Pass Road near the mountain town of Crested Butte, CO. Gunnison National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aspen-stand-color/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/color-barriers.jpg Color Barriers One of the many intimate views of lovely stands of red and golden aspen on Ohio Creek Road located between Gunnison and Crested Butte, CO. Gunnison National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aspen-peak-color/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/aspen-peak-Ohio.jpg Flavor of the Month Probably the best display of golden aspen color that I witnessed during my 2014 autumn visit captured in the heart of the Gunnison National Forest near Ohio Pass. Gunnison National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-drive/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/autumn-drive-2.jpg Autumn Escape The blue skies you are looking at didn't last long as storms swirled in the area. This late afternoon shot was captured on Cimarron Road looking into the Uncompahgre National Forest. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rainbow-over-gunnison/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/rainbow-over-Gunnison.jpg Rainbow Over Gunnison The rainbow in this image lasted longer than any I have ever seen. Lasting on and off for 2 hours it was easy to capture shots while traveling from Silverton to Gunnsion, CO. This image was captured on the northern edge of Owl Creek Pass looking into Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/animas-river-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/silverton-river.jpg The Silver River Dynamic eye level foliage decorate the banks of the mighty Animas River outside of Silverton, CO. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/animas-river/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/silverton-river-profile.jpg Silent Pellucidity An autumn afternoon image of the crystal clear Animas River flowing downstream outside of the mountain town of Silverton, CO. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/flagstaff-aspens/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/the-light-chamber.jpg The Light Chamber Some of the tallest and thickest aspen I've seen captured near Flagstaff, AZ in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness, which is part of the Coconino National Forest. Kachina Peaks Wilderness, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hematite/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/sky-high.jpg Sky High I was surprised to see snow on this morning as the day before was so lovey and hot! This is one of my favorite areas of the San Juans near Silverton, CO called Hematite Basin. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mountain-detail/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Silverton-Hillside-detail.jpg Autumn Ornamentation Hints of color in the mountain grasses near Silverton, CO mixed with pockets of gold allowed for some creative autumn photography. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/red-mountain/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/red-mountain.jpg Red Mountain Peak fall colors captured on a stormy day on Red Mountain Pass. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/red-yellow-green/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/red-green-yellow.jpg Irie Massive aspen stands of red, green, and yellow foliage were sprinkled with white in the morning following a storm near Crested Butte, CO. Gunnison National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/prickly-pear-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/prickly-pear-layers.jpg Twisted Visitor Amazingly detailed skies complimented the stark desert scenery of a prickly pear cactursat Agua Fria National Monument. This image was captured during an early October visit to this relatively unknown park located in central AZ. Agua Fria National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lost-lake-foliage/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/lost-lake-foliage.jpg Reflections of the Storm Waiting in the parking lot of Lost Lake the views cleared and the snow briefly stopped around the time I grabbed this shot. This lake is located about 25 miles away from the mountain town of Crested Butte on Kebler Pass Road. Gunnison National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/forest-assembly/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Forest-meeting.jpg Forest Assembly This interesting autumn scene reminded me of a meeting. It was the last capture of the evening in late September on Kebler Pass Road as another significant snowstorm moved into this area of mountains near Crested Butte, CO. Gunnison National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mountain-mist-colors/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/fog-ridgeline-layers-silverton.jpg The Rising I was fortunate to capture peak fall colors with mist rising from the mountains during my 2014 autumn visit to Silverton, CO. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/fog-in-the-valley/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/fog-in-the-valley.jpg Uncovering the Way I was reminded of Yosemite National Park when photographing this autumn scene of ridge lines draped in the fog with golden trees near Silverton, CO. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ferns-aspens/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/ferns-under-aspens.jpg Aspen Canopy, Fern Carpet A magnificent display of fern color accentuates the lovely patterns of a golden aspen forest near Ohio Creek Road outside of Gunnison, CO. Gunnison National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/uncompahgre/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/deer-and-home.jpg Unexpected Company I was not expecting a pair of deer to wander into shot as I was in love the looks of this old barn. The sky was also stunningly beautiful on this night. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/blue-desert/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/blue-desert.jpg Blue Desert Cryptic storm clouds provided a dynamic background to photograph the stately rock formations and colorful desert scenery at Agua Fria National Monument, AZ. Agua Fria National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/barn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/barn.jpg Salt of the Earth A rustic barn nestled peacefully amidst beautiful fall foliage is decorated by late afternoon storm light. Gunnison, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cataract-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/cataract-finished.jpg Wonderfully Amazed An amazing scene of aster, paintbrush, bear grass, and sneezeweed frame the foreground around Cataract Lake - bathed in the dappled light of picture perfect late afternoon clouds. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/painted-desert/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/painted-desert.jpg Eye of the Monsoon A long exposure adds to the intrigue of a distant storm captured from a remote perch in the painted desert near Winslow, AZ. Painted Desert, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/grand-canyon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/elegant-canyon.jpg Elegant Canyon This image was captured at sunset near Cape Royal on a clear and hazy summer evening. A nearby fire added blue, smokey hues to the background. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/san-juan-basin-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/after-the-rain.jpg Soaked You can see the rain in the picture, but for some reason I didn't see it coming. I guess that I was too busy looking at the mesmerizing skies on the right hand portion of the scene. Twenty minutes after this shot I was nearly covered in wet clay. San Juan Basin, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/san-juan-basin/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/5-year-image.jpg Forbidden Lands Captured in my bare socks after bearing the brunt of a fierce micro storm - this was the remnants of a colorful sunset on a day when clear weather was predicted in NM. San Juan Basin, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sunset-tarn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/sunset-tarn.jpg Color Burst A high altitude tarn reflects the pink colors of sunset after a day of heavy, summer storms near Porphyry Basin. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/decorated-forest/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/slumgollion-forest.jpg The Adorning Carpet A festive scene of summer wildflowers decorate the forest near Slumgollion Pass. Captured while driving from Crede to Lake City, CO. Gunnison National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sky-watchers/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/skywatchers.jpg Sky Watchers I felt like I was watching an ancient ritual as I wondering around the San Juan Basin on a stormy afternoon. San Juan Basin, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/single-sunflower-dunes/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/single-sunflower.jpg Solitary Confinement A solitary sunflower stands in stark contrast to the ferocious skies in Great Sand Dunes National Park as a summer monsoon storm approaches. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rainbow-desert/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/rainbow-desert-1.jpg The Light Chamber The best thing about this particular rainbow is that it appeared before the rain and lasted for several minutes - allowing me to capture this scene with relative ease. I did get soaked later on in the desert. San Juan Basin, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/out-there/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/out-there.jpg Valley of the Skull Dramatic skies compliment eroded sandstone on a stormy morning deep within the high desert of the San Juan Basin. San Juan Basin, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/medano-creek-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/medano-creek-long-exposure.jpg When Earth Meets Sky A summer storm forms over the Sangre De Cristo Mountains in Great Sand Dunes NP, CO. Captured using a long exposure from a remote location in Medano Creek. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/old-rail/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_7389_0481-Old-Rail-flat-crop.jpg Old Rail A railroad bridge over the Rio Grande River captured during an inversion outside of Crede one summer morning. Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/home/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/home.jpg Sublime Homestead A mesmerizing display of light illuminates an old homestead near Great Sand Dunes National Park, CO. This light quality lasted less then one minute. Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/misty-morning/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/fog-trees-Silverton.jpg Misty Morning Mountains Low lying fog dances through the aspen lined forests of the San Juan Mountains near Silverton, CO. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/photo-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/bisti-first-night-2.jpg Night Watchers Blue hour in the De Zan Nin Wilderness captured from a perch in a hoodoo filled basin with deep views of the colorful sky. New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lancaster1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Gorge-into-the-Light.jpg Into the Light Looking downstream through Pequea Gorge just outside of Lancaster on a peaceful, beautiful spring morning. Pequea Creek Natural Area, Pennsylvania https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/centralpabeauty/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/best-shot-pa-may-2014.jpg The Splendid Local This image shows the most scenic section of Pequea Creek nestled in a rugged, remote and deep gorge just outside of Lancaster PA. Pequea Creek Natural Area, Pennsylvania https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/pastategamelands/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/stategamelands.jpg Untitled A major waterfall flows strongly during the spring in the Pennsylvania State Gamelands 13. Pennsylvania State Gamelands https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/wahclella/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Waclella.jpg Neverland Wahclella Falls is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge and for good reason. This image was captured in early May during the peak of spring greens. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-wicked/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/the-wicked.jpg The Wicked Cryptic looking icicles formations near Wolf Creek Pass in Southwestern Colorado.  Rio Grande National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/painted-desert-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/county-park-1.jpg One Fine Day A beautiful display of clouds accentuated the colors of the painted landscape in a remote area of the Hopi Indian Reservation in Northeastern AZ. Painted Desert County Park, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/great-sand-dunes/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/star-view.jpg View From On High A late afternoon view from one of the highest dunes in the park. This picture was captured after a rigorous hike up. Incidentally, I had planned on spending the night in this area, but aborted my plans due to the extremely high winds. This was also the reason why I didn't change lenses and take more pictures of just the dunes. This image shows the best light of the afternoon on that CO day. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-art/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/rock-art.jpg Ancient Writings Incredible, abstract details and colorful lichen decorate the walls of the San Juan Mountains while bathed in beautiful afternoon light. The incredible detail of this image is not readily apparent through web viewing although this image would make a gorgeous fine art print. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/medano-creek-abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/mud-bubble.jpg A Picture of What is Yet to Come A very difficult exposure and one that is surely to never be replicated due to the rapidly changing conditions in which this abstract image was captured. The embryonic appearance of sand, foam and water here is actually the beginning stages of the annual spring flow of Medano Creek in Great Sand Dunes National Park, CO. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/icicles-abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/ice-wings.jpg Ice Wings An incredible formation of icicles captured during mid morning light. Can you guess the perspective of this abstract or how the camera was pointed for this shot? San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ice-abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/ice-candle.jpg Ice Candle Some of the best detail and color of ice that I noticed during my early spring trip to the San Juan Mountains near Lake City, CO. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ice-arch/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/ice-arch.jpg From Beyond the Blue A difficult perspective of a wonderful abstract view through an ice like arch on a gorgeous blue bird day near Lake City, CO. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/medano-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/grandview-night.jpg A Shallow Chill The nascent stages of Medano Creek (framed by the Sangre De Cristo Mountains) captured here in early spring at sunset on crisp, cold evening. Within an hour after this image, the waters shown here were almost completely frozen! Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rio-grande-river/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/flowing-grace.jpg Flowing Grace An icy image of the Rio Grande River captured near its headwaters outside of Crede, CO. Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/organ-pipe-3/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/stack-2.jpg Internal Essence Rare light captured from a prolific garden of flowering brittle bush near the Ajo Mountains in Southern AZ. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/saguaro/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/saguaros-new.jpg The Illuminated Ones Dappled side light dresses a stately stand of saguaro cacti in southern AZ on a stormy morning. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/organ-pipe-az-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/jurassic-park.jpg Jurassic Park A spot-lit view of the Ajo Mountains reveals an otherworldy scene of organ pipe cacti. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/organ-pipe-az/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/illuminated1.jpg Power of the Light Ominous storm clouds compliment a flower foreground of brittle bush and cholla cacti in Southern AZ. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/organ-pipe-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/freedom-2.jpg Freedom Gorgeous storm clouds drape Tillotson Peak (3374 ft.) on a beautiful spring afternoon near the border of AZ and Mexico. Flowering Brittle bush frame the foreground. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/organ-pipe-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/empire-2.jpg Empire Last light shines across the Sonoran Desert and on the Diaz Spire (3892 ft.) in the Ajo Mountains near the AZ-Mexico border. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/organ-pipe/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/cloudy-day.jpg Garden of the Blessing Deep views into Mexico are afforded in parts of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in Southern AZ. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/kitchen-creek-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/ricketts-river-2.jpg A Contemplative Cleansing A winter view of Kitchen Creek in the late afternoon during a stormy day. You may notice a small amount of dappled sunlight in the background of this image. This park is located in Northeastern PA near the city of Williamsport. Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/elakala-winter/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/overflow4.jpg Overflow A cold, shady, winter afternoon near Davis, WV at Elakala Falls captured after a fresh snowfall. This was the scene after about 72 hours of sub-freezing temperatures, which were precluded by 60 degree weather. The result: a peaceful mix of water, ice, and snow. Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ozone-falls/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/into-the-teeth2.jpg Into the Teeth You are looking at the 60 foot waterfall called Ozone Falls captured on Christmas Eve 2013 during a day of snow and sun. Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/elakala-winter-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/dreaming-of-winter.jpg Dreaming of Winter Downstream from Elakala Fall #2 - this is the top of waterfall #3. It required quite a bit of bushwhacking and a winter stream crossing to get to this spot. The area has been ravaged by damage caused by Superstorm Sandy. This scene, however, remained photogenic and I was fortunate to capture it while it was snowing. Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virgini https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/waters-meet/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/watersmeet2.jpg Water's Meet A early winter scene from the most famous stopping point in Ricketts Glen State Park - an area called "Water's Meet." Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-veil/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Rock-Wall-Sycamore.jpg Veil of Stone I was immediately captivated by the exquisite beauty of the rock walls in Aravaipa Canyon. Dramatic golden foliage showcases the beauty. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/galiuro-mountains/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/untitled.jpg The Exquisite Passage Boulders and golden foliage compliment the low rising, pink canyon walls in this autumn scene from Aravaipa Canyon. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-golden-omen/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/the-golden-omen.jpg The Golden Omen A stately and splendid cottonwood tree beckons the intrepid traveler in one of the deepest portions of Aravaipa Canyon. For me, this was a sign of better foliage to come as I hiked eastward during my second autumn exploration of the season. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/season-of-change-az/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Season-of-Change.jpg Season of Change The early stages of fall come late to the western portion of Aravaipa Canyon located in Central Arizona near Seligman. Galiuro Mountains, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/precious-place/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/flowing-stream.jpg A Precious Place This delicate, gentle section of canyon was the perfect place for an early autumn, afternoon picnic. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/fade-to-black/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/fade-to-black.jpg Fade to Black I was drawn to this boggy hole delicately covered by a smattering of decaying leaves in various stages. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-witness/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/The-Witness.jpg The Witness Prolific autumn foliage and a picturesque sunset compliment the deep canyon wilderness of Aravaipa Creek. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sounds-of-silence/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Sounds-of-Silence.jpg Sounds of Silence The repeating patterns of Cottonwood trees make this section of creek especially delightful. I distinctly remember enjoying the silence and solitude of my late afternoon time in this part of the canyon. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/after-the-rain/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/After-the-Rain-2.jpg After the Rain The sun breaks through the early morning clouds casting light on the canyon walls and colorful foliage after a night of heavy rains deep in the heart of Aravaipa Canyon. Just out of the frame of this image was my soaking wet campsite. Galiuro Mountains, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/preeminent-reaches/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/the-highest-reaches.jpg Preeminent Reaches A panoramic view of the uppermost reaches of the distinguished peaks outside of Ouray, CO during a beautiful autumn morning. Due to the large size of this file the resolution and detail has been compresssed for easy web viewing, but this can image can be printed extremely large with extensive detail at: 12 x 38, 18 x 57 or 24 x 76. Please contact me for pricing information. Uncompahgre National Forest, Coloardo https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/dallas-divide-2013/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Dallas-Divide.jpg The Great Divide There are only a few places in the US where I can tolerate rubbing elbows with hordes of other photographers. This happens to be one of them. I wasn't planning a visit to this location, but conditions were so prime I couldn't resist. Autumn at the Dallas Divide is one of the most iconic scenes in Colorado - a state famous for its mountains and landscapes. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/spirit-of-the-season/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Spirit-of-the-Season.jpg Spirit of the Season There is a type of joy evident in scenes like this. The vibrant color of aspen leaves decorate the scene like the confetti in a party. The spirit of the autumn season for me is a celebration of God's awesome majesty and imagination. Note: This image's resolution has been compressed for faster web viewing, but can be printed very large with excellent detail.   San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/window-into-the-soul/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Window-into-the-Soul-2.jpg Window into the Soul This was the first succesful image I made on my autumn trip to Colorado in early October of 2013. It was captured near Red Mountain Pass just before the direct light of the morning graced the back of the aspen forest in this scene. I was attracted to the deep views made possible by the yellow curtain of leaves that seemingly opened showcasing the depth of this area. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/waiting-for-winter/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Waiting-for-Winter-2.jpg Waiting for Winter A particularly aesthetic group of aspens showing off during autumn's last days before the long, cold winter. This image's resolution has been compressed for faster web viewing, but can be printed very large with excellent detail. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/black-and-white-aspen/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/The-Silver-Leaf.jpg Full of October An eloquent aspen refuses to shed its leaves as the month of October progresses. A black and white interpretation helps to showcase its body. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aspen-trunks-2013/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/The-precipitous-place-2.jpg The Precipitous Place A spontaneous morning trip up the side of a steep mountain lead me to this beautiful micro scene of aspen trunks nestled in the hillside. This area was so steep I had a hard time even finding a place to put down my gear bag. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aspen-v/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/The-Little.jpg V A small, hidden valley is accentuated by color and pattern as fall begins to show its color while light reaches the aspen trees. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-harvest/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/The-Autumn-Harvest.jpg Autumn's Harvest A beautiful scene captured near Owl Creek Pass as the waning moments of light faded into the night. I was attracted to the spacing of elements, colorful scrub oak, as well as the differing stages of progression of the smattering of aspen trees in the scene. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rolling-color/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Rolling-Color.jpg Rolling Color Incredible autumn color and ambient light create a mesmerizing scene of vibrancy. This area, near Owl Creek Pass, is decorated with cottonwoods and scrub oak. It is also fully exposed, which in this case, equated to amazing reflected light just moments after sunset. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/colorful-aspens/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/gracefully-aging.jpg Aging Gracefully Definitely the most colorful and awe striking color amongst aspens I witnessed on my 2013 autumn Colorado trip. I would have stayed at this scene for hours if it had not been for the wind. I did my best to freeze the action and needed to use a higher than normal ISO speed resulting in a slightly lower resolution image. Still, it came out much better than I expected... San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ghost-trees/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Ghost-Trees.jpg Ghost Trees I was fortunate to capture this scene at a time of peak foliage during perfectly still conditions. This stand of small and delicate aspen trees immediately captured my imagination. My exposure was excellent and although I went for a slightly darker presentation here - this image can printed quite large with outstanding clarity and detail. It is one of my favorites from the trip. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-mosiac-2013/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/autumn-mossiac-2.jpg Autumn Mosiac 2013 After discovering this group of aspen trees earlier in the summer I returned to this location several times to capture during the colors and patterns of the fall. This is one of my favorite shots from these sessions. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/an-impression-of-autumn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/an-impression-of-autumn.jpg An Impression of Autumn Immediately when I spotted this scene I knew that it was a winner. It was a difficult shot though for several reasons because of the striking color and patterns of the aspens. Most notably the light and the wind. I was fortunate to capture a clear image and although I tried various combinations of composition I believe this was one of the strongest. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/guardian/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/August-of-Fire-2.jpg August of Fire Corn lillies, also known as false hellebore turn a prolific gold in late August deep within the Weminuche - Colorado's largest wilderness. The peak in the background, decorated in morning light, is known as the Guardian (13,617 feet). Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-lake-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Rock-Creek-Lake-1.jpg 18 Deep Alpenglow captured from a vista above the massive cirque that forms Rock Lake (11,841 ft) deep within the boundaries of the San Juan Mountains. It is an 18 mile, one way journey on foot to this location, which makes this image rarely seen. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-lake-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Rock-Lake-2.jpg When Time Stands Still A near fish eyed view of Rock Lake (11,841 ft) captured about 15 minutes after sunrise when...for just a brief moment...a calm fell over the lake and majestic light decorated it's peaks. These conditions lasted less than a minute and I was very fortunate to capture it. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/flint-lakes/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/The-Great-Unknown.jpg The Great Unknown What you are looking at is one of the deepest spots in Colorado's largest wilderness. A remote tributary of the Flink Lakes region it was easily 22 miles plus a high alpine pass from the trail head. As afternoon thunderstorms moved in I stopped to grab this shot before an exhilarating jaunt back to my camp. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/deep-view-weminuche/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/A-Hikers-Reward.jpg A Resplendent Reward A wilderness so big and daunting - the lake in the foreground was only visible during my travels from the saddle where I photographed this image. The furthest views of an area known as the Rincon La Vaca I estimate are 20 miles away. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/betty-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Where-The-Clouds-Form.jpg Where Clouds Form A bird's eye view of Betty Lake, over 12,000 feet up and nestled in rugged heart of the San Juan Mountains. This is truly the origins of many thunderstorms. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-creek-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/The-Wild-Ride.jpg The Wild Ride The one and only unmistakably original Rock Creek. The rocks are neon orange due to the iron content in the water. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/weminuche-abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Psychedelic-Textures.jpg Psychedelic Textures Corn lillies, also known as false hellebore are a poisonous plant located in the alpine environments of California, the Southwest, and Rocky Mountain regions. Properties of the plant are currently being used as experimental anti-cancer drugs. This particular image was captured on a wet, dreary late August evening as the plants were in different stages of color changes and saturated with water. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-creek-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Creek-of-Mystery.jpg Creek of Mystery The one and only unmistakably original Rock Creek. The rocks are neon orange due to the iron content in the water. This image was captured as light was fading deep within the forest and required quite a bit of bushwhacking to access. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sojourn-of-color/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Forest-Rd-52-Flowers.jpg Sojourn of Color A short, but strenuous climb up a mountain hillside near Silverton, CO yielded some unprecedented views and a slope full of alpine wildflowers highlighted by a bountiful Sneezeweed display. Needless to say, I had a pleasant stay. San Juan Mountains, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/colorful-rocks/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/rocks.jpg Natural Insanity You are looking at what is probably the most prolific and colorful rock display that I've personally seen. I am not sure if it is naturally occurring or is a product of the uprooted Earth from all the mining in this area. This is an 8 image blend for depth of field and is extremely high in resolution. Therefore, what you are looking at here is simply a fraction of the quality of the image because the file is so big. For purposes of display, there is no way to show the amount of detail in the rock lichen. This image can be printed very large and if interested please email me for more information. San Juan Mountains, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lake-sunrise-wildflowers/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/verde-sunrise-blend-flowers.jpg Joyful Morning I found this abdundant display of flowers while scouting the area and was able to successfully fulfill my vision of this scene captured during sunrise. Having a clear day with light wind didn't hurt either. Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/weminuche-pond/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/tarn-reflection-storm-morning.jpg Animal Farm Captured about an hour after sunrise this storm cell was traveling due south and produced some rain over the peaks in the distance. This is a very remote backcountry area that is notable for its abundant animal inhabitance. Around this particular pond, I have never experienced a stronger smell of animals in the outdoors - it literally smelled like a farm.  Nevertheless, it was an incredibly wonderful display of light and atmosphere that accentuated the beauty of the area. Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/vallecito-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/vallecito-creek1.jpg Creekside Delight An intimate look at Vallecito Creek near the southwestern most terminus of the Weminuche Wilderness.  The aptly named Vallecito Creek Trail follows this watershed for more than 20 miles into the heart of one of the deepest wildernesses in the lower 48. Of the first six or so miles that I traveled, this scene spoke to me the most as it was in a tight gorge that accentuated the color of the water. This vantage point was not visible from the trail and required quite a bit of down climbing to access. Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ice-lake-morning/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/ice-lake-basin.jpg Place of Peace A chilly morning in June at Ice Lake Basin produced some memorable conditions for fine art landscape photography as well as lots of solitude. I unintentionally captured my tent in this image and it is clearly visible in the middle left section of the picture. For display, I decided to leave it as part of the scene. However, it can easily be removed for those interested in licensing the image or purchasing the print. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/weminuche-light/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/cave-basin-first-night.jpg Plateau of Vision Arriving at this location less than an hour before (and after setting up camp), I was scrambling around the area trying to find a suitable composition when the light began to fade. I was able to capture this image just seconds before it disappeared off the peaks for the evening. Overall, I am very pleased with the capture. Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rare-air/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/fave.jpg Rare Air From the moment I opened my tent I knew this sunrise was going to be special. While that is not always the case, this was a once in every few years morning and I just happened to be at the right place at the right time. This image isn't a product of smoke and mirrors or fancy editing - this light show was the real deal. Looking out in the distance is miles and miles of backcountry ridge lines.  To give an idea of scale, the illuminated peak on your right is just over 13,000 ft. in elevation. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lake-scenery/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/mirror-afternoon.jpg Scenic Explosion An ultra wide angle take on Mirror Lake from a precarious and somewhat dangerous view point deep within the Weminuche Wilderness backcountry on a splendid Colorado alpine afternoon. Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/highland-mary-lakes/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/highland-mary-lakes-afternoon.jpg Deep Blue A picture perfect afternoon in the Highland Mary Lakes region of the Weminuche Wilderness of southwestern Colorado. The secret to this image was in a blend of two exposures for the two prominent lakes that you see. In the nearest lake, I used maximum polarization to accentuate the reflections of the clouds while in the background I used a polarizer to remove the glare to showcase the lake's deep blue water color. Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/moonrise-kingdom/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/8-minutes.jpg Moonrise Kingdom (8 minutes) The title for this image is based off of the length of the exposure, which was actually closer to 9 minutes. It was captured about a half hour after moonrise on the night of the Super Moon, the strongest and most illuminated full moon of the year. The two most prominent peaks in this image are Vestal Peak (left 13,864 ft) and Arrow Peak (right, 13,808 ft). Two of the most distinctive and technically challenging peaks in all of Colorado. To give you an idea of scale - the elevation of the body of water in the front of this image is approximately 12,186 ft.   Weminuche Wilderness, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/yankee-boy-basin/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Yankee-Boy.jpg Decorated Light Dappled evening light decorates the peaks surrounding Govenor Basin captured from a prominent alpine garden in Yankee Boy Basin, CO. This area is located near the town of Ouray. Uncomphagre Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sunset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/mirror-sunset.jpg Monsoon Inspiration A monsoon inspired sunset over a remote high alpine lake (altitude 11,600 feet) taken from a precipitous vantage point deep in the Weminuche Wilderness backcountry near an area called Cave Basin. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aspen-trees-light/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/aspen-higlights-1224.jpg Stand of Majesty Morning light filters through a majestic stand of aspen trees in the Uncompahgre Wilderness. Uncompahgre Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/corn-lilies-bw/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/BW-Corn-Lily.jpg Raptured A black and white interpretation of a small section of corn lilies. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/waterfall-2-pa/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/waterfall-2-McIntyre.jpg Rythmn of the Forest One of the favorite captures during my Spring outing to Northeastern Pennsylvania. I am not sure if this waterfall has an official name, but it was beautiful to witness. Loyalsock State Forest, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/pa-waterfall-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/miners-run-falls-top-view.jpg Spring Flow A view from the top of one of Pennsylvanias's most picturesque waterfalls captured near Rock Run. Loyalsock State Forest, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/pa-waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/miners-run-falls.jpg A Healthy Dose of Reality One of the most picturesque waterfalls I have ever been blessed to witness. Places like this do exist and sometimes they are a little hard to find....which is a good thing! Loyalsock State Forest, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/pa-stream/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Deep-Hole-2.jpg The Sweet Spot The incredible color and clarity of Rock Run is on display here in what was probably a 5 or 6 foot deep hole in the stream.   Loyalsock State Forest, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/gibson-falls/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Gibson-Falls-0579.jpg Triple View Falls A three layered cascade showcases the beauty of the bottom of Gibson Falls, an off trail and relatively obscure waterfall in the Loyalsock State Forest. Loyalsock State Forest, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-run-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/The-Channel.jpg Silent Placidity The water carved a near S pattern in the slick rock in this particular section of Rock Run, Pennsylvania's most beautiful stream. Backlit spring foliage accentuates the scenery even more. Loyalsock State Forest, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-run-3/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Downstream-2.jpg The Serenity Acquirement A downstream view of the blue green waters and ornate cliffs that make Rock Run special. This stream is located in northeastern Pennsylvania. Loyalsock State Forest, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-run-1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Rock-Run-3.jpg Zen The slick rock gorge of Rock Run located in the McIntyre Wild Area is known for its clear flowing waters and decorated stream side views. Backlit spring foliage and moss covered, low lying ridges make this view special. Loyalsock State Forest, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-run-detail/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/rapid-detail.jpg Flow Patterns Rock Run, also known as Pennsylvania's most beautiful stream, is a stimulating delight on the senses. It's signature slick rock creek bed is atypical of eastern watersheds. Loyalsock State Forest, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/big-hunting-creek-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Catoctin-Swirl-0342.jpg Swirling Mass A particularly scenic stretch of Big Hunting Creek captured on an overcast spring afternoon with a wide angle lens. Cunningham Falls State Park, MD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mill-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/mill-creek-0450.jpg A Breath of Fresh Air Mill Creek Falls is a hidden gem of a spot that doubles as a fantastic swimming hole in the summer. This location is situated near the small mountain community of Hillsgrove in northeastern Pennsylvania. Loyalsock State Forest, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/loyalsock-view/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/kettle-creek-overlook-0524.jpg Mountain Melody A picture perfect view taken near the Loyalsock trail overlooking Kettle Creek Wild Area in northeastern Pennsylvania on a beautiful spring afternoon. Loyalsock State Forest, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/big-hunting-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Catoctin-Last-Shot_2.jpg Even Flow Big Hunting Creek flows through a jumbled mess of downed trees and moss covered boulders. This shot was captured less than half an hour before sunset. The storm damage you see is from Hurricane Sandy. Cunningham Falls State Park, MD https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/desert-magic/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Desert-magic.jpg Desert Magic A creative composition integrating a rare Joshua Tree bloom in combination with a full moon set during the brief minutes of early dawn. The exposure on this particular image was over one minute and very little editing and color correction was performed. Unlike many night shots, the light in this image is all natural. Joshua Tree National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/land-of-secrets/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Land-of-Secrets.jpg Land of Secrets I literally stumbled upon this scene during a backpacking trip on the Lost Boyscout Trail and was fortunate enough to capture this light, which lasted for only a few minutes. What you can't see in the image was a large desert hare hiding behind the rocks in the foreground. This area has perhaps some of the best specimens of Joshua Trees as well as vistas in the park.  Joshua Tree National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/claret-cup/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/claret-cup-bloom.jpg Claret Cup This was the only claret cup cactus that I found in bloom during my four days in the California park in late March. It was wedged in between a deep crevice of rocks in the higher elevations of the area. Joshua Tree National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/barrel-cactus/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/the-protection.jpg The Protection Joshua Tree NP has two different and distinctive desert ecosytems. In the lower elevations of the park, where this image was captured, an arm of the Colorado Desert (part of the larger Sonoran Desert) infiltrates the eastern most edges of the Mohave Desert and creates an usual and eclectic mix of desert flora. It is here, where intreprid travelers can occasionally find a colorful display of healthy barrel cacti. This particular image features a large and vibrant specimen with particularly noticeable patterns of needles and ridges. The dappled side light of late afternoon accentuates its beauty. Joshua Tree National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lost-view/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Lost-View-Canyon-665.jpg Lost View Canyon After a night of surviving without food, water, proper clothing or shelter I stumbled upon this scene off trail in Big Bend National Park shortly after sunrise - hence the name Lost View. I down climbed to this vantage point approximately 1000 feet above the Rio Grande River as the first rays of day light glowed off its river. To my knowledge, this view has never been captured before... Big Bend National Park, TX https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/chisos-detail/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/chisos-detail-tiff-jpeg.jpg Pillars of the Forest A telephoto lens was used to capture this cross section of part of the inner basin of the Chisos Mountains near Panther Junction, Texas. I was intrigued by the mature evergreen trees and how they mixed with the more classic desert scenery. It is an interesting combination that provides scale. This image was taken about a half an hour before sunset on partly overcast day. Big Bend National Park, TX https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/black-and-white-patterns/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/dune-abstract-bw.jpg Storm Patterns A black and white abstract version of freshly blown sand patterns catching late afternoon light in the middle of a gypsum dunefield sandstorm. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-color-of-light/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/moonset-after-sunrise-big-dune-white-sands.jpg The Color of Light The colors of the first rays of light are reflected on the gypsum dunefields of the Tularosa Basin in southern NM as the moon descends on the horizon. These are the largest gypsum dunefields in the world. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/light-expanse/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Light-expanse.jpg Light Expanse As the setting sun dips below the jagged horizon of the San Andreas Mountains a burst of light is cast upon the range's silhouette. The directional light is similar to the patterns of the interdune flats shown in the midground. White Sands National Monument, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/grapevine-hills-view/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/the-sword.jpg The Sword A skull and cross bones type scene of rock with deep views captured from the tight squeeze of a cliff just moments before sunrise in the Grapevine Hills area of Big Bend National Park in Texas. Big Bend National Park, TX https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/decay/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/decay.jpg Decay An abstract rendering of a very large cross section of decaying prickly pear cacti. These colors of death are perfectly natural. This is a limited edition image that can printed quite large - please contact me for more information. Big Bend National Park, Texas https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/death-blooms/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/decay-horizontal.jpg Death Blooms You are looking the middle cross section of a decaying corpse of a huge bulb of prickly pear cactus. The rustic colors of death are something to behold and beautiful sight to see in person. This abstract image is a limited edition and can be printed quite large - please contact mefor more information. Big Bend National Park, Texas https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/natures-puzzle/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/0971-mud-cracks.jpg Nature's Puzzle Mud cracks and leaves decorate a secluded canyon basin in Big Bend National Park. When I stumbled upon this scene, I instantly saw the image that I wanted to create. This a limited editon image that can be printed quite large. Please contact mefor more information. Big Bend National Park, Texas https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/wind-storm/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/white-sands-moonburst.jpg The Wind Storm I braved a night of incredible winds that practically destroyed my tent and everything in it to bring you this image of perfectly balanced light and a wonderfully wind swept dune. The moon burst is a completely natural effect of my wide angle lens. This was a rare moment of light and the conditions of the dunes were a product of the previous night's storm. You will not see this shot duplicated. White Sands National Monument https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/peace-i-give-you/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/chimeny-sunset.jpg Peace I Give You A picuresque sunset near the Chimney's rock formation (left side) in the heart of Chihuahuan Desert at Big Bend National Park. This was the best night of light that I experienced during my week long stay in the park. The purple mountain escarpment on the right side image is part of colorful Kit Mountain (elevation 3825 ft.) I remember there wasn't a soul to be seen, a subtle breeze was in the air, and the temperature was just about perfect. Big Bend National Park, Texas https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/texas-canyon-storm/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/texas-canyon-pano-.jpg Spirit of the Storm Fading stormlight eerily illuminates the Dragoon Mountains in the Coronado National Forest. Captured from the edge of Texas Canyon located about halfway between Wilcox and Benson, AZ. This is a two picture panoramic image of the final moments of light and the end of the storm. Texas Canyon, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-beckoning-omen/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/chira-sunrise-crop.jpg The Beckoning Omen This was captured during sunrise on the second morning of a late winter storm system that moved throughout Arizona in early March of 2013. You are looking at the portion of the majestic eastern side of the Chiricahua Mountains located near Portal, AZ. This was captured near the entrance to Cave Creek Canyon. Coronado National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/split-rock-marufo-vega/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/marufa-vega-2.jpg Sunset at Split Rock This is last light on the Sierra Del Carmen taken above my camp at Split Rock approximately 6.5 miles into the backcountry just off of the Marufo Vega Trail. There a quite a bit of flowers in the foreground, which are somewhat hard to see in this smaller version, but would look fantastic in a large print. Just over the other side of the hill in the middle of the picture lies the Rio Grande River. The Sierra Del Carmen are northern finger of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range. This subrange is home to 446 species of birds, 3,600 species of insects, more than 1,500 plant species, and 75 mammals. Big Bend National Park, Texas https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/dune-flow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/dune-flow-abstract-0605.jpg Dune Flow The mirroring and meandering flow of white sands captured at sunset. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/full-moon-white-sands/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/moon-set-200m.jpg Soft Landing A full moon sets behind the San Andreas Mountains in Southern New Mexico at White Sands National Monument. This is not a composite image - it was one shot captured at 200 mm near the parabolic dune front, which is part of the Tularosa Basin. White Sands National Monument, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/black-and-white-church/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/bw-church.jpg Old West You are looking at the centerpiece of an abondened movie set (Contrabando) which was built in 1985 for the filming of the comedy Uphill All The Way. That was just the first of nine movies made here. Most people believe this church will someday be destroyed by a flooding of the Rio Grande River, which flows approximately 30 feet behind where this picture was captured.   Big Bend Ranch State Park, Texas https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/dune-flow-blue/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/dune-flow-blue.jpg Into the Sun As the sun sets behind the San Andreas Mountains (elevation 8235 ft) a cloudless sky turns a golden yellow while fading contrast of shadows in the dunes reflect dark blue. I used my telephoto lens to compact the scene to form an abstract impression. The gypsum that forms the white sand was deposited at the bottom of a shallow sea covering this area 250 million years ago and it is part of the Tularosa Basin. White Sands National Park, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/balanced-rock-tx/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/balanced-rock-277.jpg Balanced Rock Balanced rock is one of the more iconic images in Big Bend National Park located on the Grapevine Hills Trail. The timing of this image was just about perfect for the best light of the day captured just moments after sunrise. The mountain you see in the background is called Nugent Peak elevation 4,482 feet. Big Bend National Park, Texas https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/prickly-pear/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/prickly-pear-vertical-blend.jpg Prickly Pear The prickly pear cactus is one of the signature flora of the Chihuahuan Desert in Big Bend National Park, TX. Big Bend National Park, Texas https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sierra-del-carmen/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/carmen-detail.jpg The mysterious one You are looking at a twilight picture of one of the most remote and rugged mountain subranges in North America - the majestic Sierra Del Carmen of Mexico. To give you perspective, this shot was taken with a full frame camera at 70mm. This is about as close as you can get for this kind of view without crossing over the Rio Grande River into Mexico. This was captured on a rigorous three day backpacking trip on the Marufo Vega trail. This 33 second exposure was taken about 20 minutes after sunset in fading light. Big Bend National Park, Texas https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bisti-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9839-as-Alice-Blend-crop.jpg In the Memory Dappled morning light decorates the mushrooms and hoodoos deep within the Bisti Wilderness. Bisti Wilderness, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/tree-trunk/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0188_Geiger-crop-flat.jpg Twisted Relationship An intricate examination of a gnarled and twisted tree with nestled rocks and decorated with fallen leaves. Captured in one of the Superstition Mountains most riprarian canyons. Tonto National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/red-planet/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9659-red-planet.jpg Red Planet A 30 second exposure in the near dark produced this moonscape of a unique scene in the Bisti Wilderness during the blue hour. Bisti Wilderness, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rock-patterns/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9708-rock-patterns.jpg Physical Graffiti An abstract look at some of the unique rock patterns that cover the ground in the Bisti Wilderness in New Mexico. Bisti Wilderness, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/chaco-door/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0139--doors.jpg Lost Passage Brilliant light illuminates a deep passage within the complex and ancient structure of Pueblo Bonito in New Mexico. Chaco Canyon National Historic Park, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/silent-mystery/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9896-silent-mystery.jpg Silent Mystery A graceful and flowing look an exquisite sandstone structure deep in the heart of a remote New Mexico badlands area taken at nightfall. New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/alien-stronghold/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0018-ah-first-shot.jpg Alien Stronghold The last rays of light grace this incredibly unique and bizarre sandstone formation located in a remote section of badlands in central New Mexico. To give you an idea of scale on the other side of the formation is about a 30 foot drop. New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mud-abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9861-staind-mud-2.jpg Fractured An abstract examination of a frozen stream of mud, ice and water in the Bisti Badlands of New Mexico on a frigid November morning. Bisti Wilderness, NM https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sloan-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Sloan_5522.jpg Dreaming of Altitude This is a 13 second time lapse exposure of fast moving monsoon clouds taken around mid-day at Sloan Lake altitude 12,920 feet located in the heights of American Basin of the San Juan Mountains. The lake hosts a healthy population of cuthroat trout. San Juan Mountains, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/organ-pipe-abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0356-Black-and-White-Pipe-2.jpg The Matrix The abstract and twisted innards of a large and healthy organ pipe cactus create maze like patterns. Organ Pipe National Monument, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/construction-zone/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9191-cave-creek-blend-done.jpg Construction Zone After miles of trekking upstream through Cave Creek Canyon I happened upon this scene of lingering autumn foliage and was struck by the abruptness of the boulders as well as the clarity of the water. Coronado National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ghosts-of-the-badlands/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9878-as-ghosts.jpg Ghosts of the Badlands I stumbled onto this scene while roaming the badlands at twilight and was amazed at this spectacle. The desert can have incredible personality. New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hoodoosandbadlands/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0096-as-distant-view.jpg Chasing the Shadow Well below freezing morning temperatures left my hands numb on the descent into this remote canyon of badlands. However, I warmed up quickly during my race along the edge of its spectacular hoodoos in search of the ideal photo opportunity as the Earth's shadow faded into the distance. The resulting photograph was probably my best effort of that particularly frigid morning. New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-situation/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0034-as-the-situation-web.jpg The Situation Surveying these remote badlands during a crystal clear, below freezing,  twilight evening conjured images of being lost and finding a way out. New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/century_plant/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9393-century-plant.jpg Arms of the Century Some of the greatest specimens of desert foliage in the Southwest are on display in the Chiracuhua Mountains in Southeastern Arizona. I was amazed at the size and color of this century plant, certainly the largest and most colorful I have ever seen. Coronado National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/palette-of-color/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9346-as-chira-leaves-2.jpg Palette of Color A hidden canyon deep in the upper reaches of the Chiracuhua Mountains reveals massive boulders amongst a smattering of autumn color. Coronado National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/chiracuhua_leaves/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9336-as-chira-leaves.jpg Forest of Seclusion A rare canyon of peak foliage creates a unique natural abstract in the upper reaches of the Chiracuhua Mountains in Eastern Arizona. Coronado National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/uppergeyserbasinwinter/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0238-as-upper-geyser-winterdone1.jpg Thermal Winter A heavy winter snowstorm dissipates at sunset in the frozen tundra of Upper Geyser Basin. While this area ranks as one of the park's most famous destinations, it is a lonely and desolate place during the brutal confines of the winter season. Yellowstone National Park, WY https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bakerheadwaters/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7754-as-great-basin-stream.jpg The Thawing The headwaters of Baker Creek gain momentum as spring greens arrive late in the season as the high country begins to thaw in one of the few alpine areas in Nevada. Great Basin National Park, NV https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/azmoonset/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9414-moonset.jpg The Balancing Act A full moon is captured setting during the ambient glow of early dawn in the remote foothills of the Chiracuhua Mountains in Southeastern Arizona. Coronado National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/delicate-arch/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9494-as-Delicate-Arch.jpg Waiting for Solitude The most famous icon in all of Utah - Delicate Arch pictured here at nightfall. It was my first visit to the arch and although it was crowded I could not have been more impressed. A close up view certainly leaves a lasting impression. Eventually the crowds thinned and it was just myself and a few others that shared this moment. Arches National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/remote-slot-canyon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9101cap-blend3crop.jpg Kaleidoscopic Canyon An incredible palette of sandstone colors deep in a remote slot canyon in Central Utah. A 20 second exposure was needed to capture these colors in the middle of the afternoon. Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/canyon-flow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9398_glow_flow.jpg Canyon Flow The sinuous walls of sandstone canyons are shaped by the dynamic force of water. Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/great-gallery/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9655-as-great-gallery-flat-2.jpg The Great Gallery Ancient celestial figures decorate a hidden rock alcove deep in Horseshoe Canyon. These pictographs are estimated to be over 3,000 years old and are considered to be the oldest and most well preserved in all of North America. Canyonlands National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cottonwood_detail/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9706-as-Bark-Root.jpg Stay Strong Criss crossing patterns mimick the shape of roots of an old growth cottonwood tree in Horseshoe Canyon, UT. Canyonlands National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/red_canyon_stream/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9330-as-Smart-Object-1.jpg The Forgotten Place A relatively unknown slot canyon in Eastern Utah shown here in the late afternoon during peak spring run off. The rock walls in this place are a natural red. Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/alien/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9247-Crazy-Horse-B--W-with-Steve.jpg Alien One of the more iconic views of the Little Wild Horse Canyon area near Goblin Valley State Park in Central Utah. Little Wildhorse Canyon, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cathedral_valley_storm/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9765-asThe-Last-Shot.jpg Skull District An intimidating storm brought fierce winds to Lower Cathedral Valley. Brilliant sunlight and ominious clouds set the stage about an hour before sunset in Capitol Reef in early April. Tragically, this was the last image ever captured with my favorite lens as it was destroyed by 60mph wind gusts that toppled my tripod. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/desert_leaves/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9605-leaves.jpg Gentle Desert While scouting for compositions in the Horeshoe Canyon district of Canyonlands National Park I discovered this collection of leaves nestled in the corner of some small, orange colored sand dunes. It was an unusual experience to discover this kind of autumn scenery in the beginning of April. Canyonlands National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/orchard_bloom/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8928-as-Orchard-Master.jpg Regrowth The orchards in Capitol Reef National Park were cultivated by Mormon settlers during the 1870's with the last family moving out in 1969. The orchards are probably the hallmark feature of the park and are particularly beautiful during the spring. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/frozen_yellowstone/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0048-as-Frozen-Dreams.jpg Lost in Forever A brief moment in time captured just after sunrise on a frigid morning where temperatures reached 20 below zero. This image was taken in the middle of winter and just hours after a heavy snowfall. The thermal stream in the scene helps create depth and the reflected light and fog was a perfect blue signifying the start of a beautiful day near Mammoth Junction. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/capitol_reef_vista/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8845-as-Panarama-Point-Master.jpg The Quiet Light A soft and subtle sunset approaches as last light captures the monolithic sandstone structures that decorate Capitol Reef National Park. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/spring_greens/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8979-as-Spring-Dance-Master.jpg Springtime Dance Backlight illuminates these creekside cottonwood trees just starting to bud during the spring. This image was captured in the early morning hours on a particularly cold and blustery day. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/fallen_roof/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8794-fallen-roof-blend_master.jpg Kingdom Come Guide books led me to this backcountry ruin nicknamed "Fallen Roof Ruin" located in a maze like area of UT called Cedar Mesa. The colors displayed here are a product of reflected light. Cedar Mesa, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/storm_mountain_view_arizona/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_6437-as-Tempest-Steve.jpg The Tempest You are looking at the prelude to a large storm that eventually flooded my backcountry base camp while backpacking off trail in the Tonto National Forest. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/red_rock_water/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9149-as-Earth.jpg Journey to the Center of the Earth The deepest stretches of a remote slot canyon in central Utah produced this scene during late afternoon light in the spring. Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/glowing_slot_canyon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9379-Focal-Blend-Best-Shot.jpg Glow Lines A relatively unknown slot canyon in Eastern Utah shown here in the late afternoon during peak spring run off. The rock walls in this place are a natural red. Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/desert_waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9082-as-waterfall-master.jpg Wonder Fall A symetrical waterfall in the heart of a semi-technical slot canyon in Utah shows off its best colors. Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bryce-canyon-hodoos/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7218_other_world_small_2.jpg Other World A rare glimpse into an area of glowing hodoos creates an other worldly scene. This image was captured at sunset. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/tonto-national-forest-fall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/horton-5-Regular.jpg Sludge Factory The tranquil forest near Horton Springs comes explodes with color for a short time in the fall. With each passing year the dynamic scenery changes ever so slightly... Tonto National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/heart-of-the-forest/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9461-Forest-View-3.jpg Heart of the Forest A rare glimpse past a wall of leaves into a forest of aspen trees captured during peak fall conditions with absolutely no wind. Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sun-beam-dallas-divide/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9218-Aspen-Sunstar-5.jpg Burning October Sun beams burst through a small grove of golden aspen trees near the Dallas Divide shortly after sunrise. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/autumn-snow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/silver-jack-done.jpg Journey to Nowhere The road leading to the Silver Jack Reservoir helps lead the viewer through this scene captured in the heart of the Uncompahgre National Forest amidst spectacular fall conditions. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/dallas-divide-snow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/DD_Panorama1-Blur-done-crop.jpg Glorious Day This fall image of the Dallas Divide was captured about 40 mintues after sunrise and just a couple hours after the overnight snow had stopped falling. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/owl-creek-pass/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20111008_Colorado-Birthday-Fall_0541Owl-Creek-Revised.jpg Autumn Mosaic One of the more iconic view points at Owl Creek Pass shows off an incredibly diverse range of fall color as both trees and ground cover change with the passing season. uncompahgre national forest, Coloardo https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/uncompahgre-cabin/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20111008_Colorado-Birthday-Fall_0520-Cabin-done-new.jpg Seasonal Solitude Fall brings color and privacy to the rustic areas like this cabin found near the Silver Jack Reservoir in the Uncompahgre National Forest and Owl Creek Pass. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aspen-strand/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9503-Aspen-Field-3.jpg Stand of Attention A prolific strand of aspen trees makes for wonderful photography during peak fall foliage and fast changing light conditions. San Juan Mountains, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/golden-leaves/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9521-The-Golden-Light.jpg The Golden Light Dappled light illuminates a canopy of golden aspen leaves amidst a network of branches in Southwestern CO during the fall. Sadly many of these trees burned in the summer of 2018 in the 416 Fire. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/frozen-waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9271-frozen-fall.jpg Cliff Hanger A partially frozen stream makes for magical conditons after an autumn snowstorm in the San Juan Mountains near Silverton, CO. The title of this image was derived from the frozen cliff that required scaling before dropping down onto the frozen stream bed to capture this image. San Juan National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/american-basin-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_6092-American-Basin.jpg The Rising Light An incredible display of wildflowers complimented by unique light in American Basin captured shortly after sunrise. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/marmot/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_6280-Marmot--vv-crop--done.jpg Home of the Living A marmot surveys the scene from his lake front home amidst wildflowers and diffused mid morning light at Ice Lake Basin. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/american-basin/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_5761-Blend-Both-Layers-NN.jpg National Anthem A stunning floral display of indian paint brush, bluebells, and bear grass accentuated by a glimpse of rare alpine light in American Basin.  San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/clear-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_6174_clear_lake_blend-vv-finished--3-sat-mask-2.jpg Modularity This picture is a scene taken at sunrise above Upper Clear Lake in early August during a banner wildflower year in Colorado. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ice-lake-basin-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_6337-triple-mountain-layers-FINALLY-flat2.jpg Exertion Point This shot is a view from down and across Ice Lake Basin as seen from a wildflower filled vantage spot in the late afternoon. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/island-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_6297-Island-Lake-new-1.jpg Island of the Heavens A wildflower laden overlook of picture perfect Island Lake as it shimmers in mid morning light. Located in the background is the 13,650 feet Theodore Roosevelt peak. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/golden-horn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_6401-Columbine-Ice-Lake-Bloom-Crop-VV-Finish--flat.jpg Alpine Essentials Alpenglow and Colorado Columbine set amidst the backdrop of a 13,750 ft. peak called the "golden horn" deep in the San Juan National Forest. Ice Lake Basin, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/la-plata-mountains/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_5350-Taylor-Layers-VV-Done.jpg Around the World Sunrise in the Taylor Lake Basin near Durango brings magnificent light and color during a banner year for wildflowers. La Plata Mountains, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/america-basin-sunrise/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_5439-First-Morning-AB-Blend-Finish-sat-mask.jpg Dances with Columbines Colorado Columbine and Penstemon dominate the foreground in a flower filled lower meadow, while the 13, 800 foot peaks of American Basin beckon with alpenglow on a clear morning. San Juan National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/kentucky-falls/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0906-Kentucky-Blend_2-small.jpg Jurassic Feeling Buried deep in the Oregon Coast Range and located along the scenic North Fork Smith River in the Oregon Coast Range, Kentucky Falls is one of the premiere waterfalls in OR. Siuslaw National Forest, Oregon https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/north-falls/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_1293_North_Falls_3.jpg Coming Together The dramatic Middle North Falls pictured here during a morning shower at the peak of Spring near Silverton, OR. Silver Falls State Park, Oregon https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/small-town-america/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_5133_Palouse.jpg Small Town America Texture and colors dapple the hillside during a brilliant sunset in the heart of the Palouse just outside of Pullman during the peak of spring. The Palouse, Washington https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/columbia-river-gorge/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_1152_dry_creek_done.jpg Direction Texture, power, and color highlight Dry Creek Falls spring time beauty. The red color on its walls is actually lichen. This image was captured during peak spring time beauty. Columbia River George, Oregon https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/umpqua-falls/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_1019_Buckeye_Falls_3.jpg The Forgotten Place Captured in a down pour of rain and at the peak of Spring, Trestle Falls is a tucked away gem of deep within the mountains of the Umpqua National Forest near Eugene, OR. Umpqua National Forest, Oregon https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lower_antelope_tour/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0731_blend_done_Enrique.jpg Feelings A full spectrum of colors engulfs Lower Antelope canyon on a sunny day after heavy overnight rains. This slot canyon is the most photographed in the world. Antelope Canyon, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/desert_dreams/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0635_desert_dreams.jpg Desert Dreams This image represents an up close and personal look at a small, healthy Agave parryi, also known as Parry's agave or mescal agave. It is a slow-growing agave native to Arizona, New Mexico, and northern Mexico. The repeating patterns and  the surreal abstract presentation inspires the imagination. Phoenix, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/black_and_white_slot_canyon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0563_B_W_slot.jpg Tunnel of Forgiveness A black and white interpretation of sandstone patterns in Antelope Canyon on the Navajo Indian Reservation. I was attracted to the layers of circles and vertical striations of the sandstone.   Antelope Canyon, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/antelope_sandstone_waves/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/blend_the_one_done.jpg Breaking a Heart of Stone Sandstone waves of color and mystery are accentuated by multiple colors and depth in this shot of Lower Antelope Canyon. This canyon is part of the LeChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation. Antelope Canyon, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/antelope_canyon_abstract/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/first_shot_done.jpg The Complex Soul A dark, twisted passage of sandstone in Antelope Canyon leads the viewer up through the light. This abstract scene is open to multiple interpretations and symbolically represents the mystery and intrigue of this revered slot canyon located on the Navajo Nation.  Antelope Canyon, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hazdistaz/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_0415_the_eye_blend_1_done_dust_gone.jpg The Eye of Consequence Intense arrays of colors decorate the sandstone walls of Antelope Canyon. Here the small hole in the rock adds texture and character to the already beautiful scene.  Lower Antelope Canyon is called Hazdistazí (advertised as "Hasdestwazi" by the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department), or "spiral rock arches" and is located within the LeChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation. Antelope Canyon, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lower_antelope_glow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/lower_antelope_slot_canyon_mg_055.jpg The Red Light District Reflected, ambient light fills this popular slot canyon's sandstone sculptures with an incredible glow. The native term for this place is called "Hasdestwazi", which means "spiral rock arches."  Antelope canyon is part of the LeChee chapter of the Navajo Nation. Antelope Canyon, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/joshua_tree/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/joshua_Tree_blend_finished.jpg Mohave Sunrise Delight A colorful sunrise accentuates the rocky and barren landscape of the Mohave Desert in Joshua Tree National Park near the Jumbo Rocks campground. Joshua Tree National Park, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/room-with-a-view/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/superstition_done_flat.jpg Room with a View This is a picture of nightfall in the Superstition Mountains, which are located just outside of Phoenix, less than 24 hours after a rare desert snowstorm. Lost Dutchman State Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mean-streets/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/mean_streets_0912.jpg Mean Streets I was drawn the colors and textures of these neighbors' homes in the Barrio Viejo, Tucson. Barrio Viejo, Tucson, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/barrio_viejo_1-2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/green_door_1186_done.jpg Imagine One can only imagine what is behind this cryptic door in Tucson's classic barrio viejo. Barrio Viejo, Tucson, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/pyramid_peak_black_white/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7893pyramidpeakdonemoon_BW_2.jpg The Pyramid You are looking at 11,926 ft Pyramid Peak in the backcountry of Great Basin National Park. This vantage point was captured before sunset from a lake nearby our campsite. Great Basin National Park, NV https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/barrio_viejo_1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/double_doors_final_vv.jpg Choices Colorful and decaying walls add lots of character to a morning view of a particularly interesting area of Tucson's barrio viejo. Tucson, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/sequoia_fog/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/fog_horizontal_done_1_crop_color_cast.jpg The Beckoning Dense fog penetrates a dark forest as night falls near the Sierra Trail outside of Crabtree Meadow. Sequoia National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/twilight-descension/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/superstition_hike_twilight_master_crop.jpg Twilight Descension A healthy and robust population of saguaro cacti direct the way to the Picacho Butte (4,294 ft). This image was captured at twilight near the end of a brisk, winter's day in the Tonto National Forest. Superstition Mountain Wilderness, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/rush_of_stillness/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Horton_0458.jpg Rush of Stillness Nightfall comes quickly in November during a time of peak foliage at Horton Creek. Tonto National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/aspen_needles/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8939aspen_needles_1_master.jpg Autumn Needles Bare and thinning aspen trees mixed with other conifers make for intriguing and abstract compositions during the later fall near Telluride, Colorado. San Juan Mountains, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/nestled/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_9194_pine_treestif.jpg Nestled An afternoon rainstorm accentuates the autumn colors of cottonwood trees amidst a forest of lodgepole pine, white spruce, and subalpine firs. San Juan Mountains, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/petroglyphs/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/rock_blend_done.jpg Here Before Us Sunset highlights the sentinel saguaro forest and ancient petroglyphs in Southern Arizona. Saguaro National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/saguaro_night/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/saguaro_blend_5.jpg The Waiting The magnificent saguaro cacti forest in Saguaro National Park reflects the ambient light of the coming night. Saguaro National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bryce_canyon_hoodoos/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/20101030_The-Castle.jpg Medieval Times An up close and personal look at the hoodoos of  Bryce Canyon's Silent City in Southern Utah. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/horton_creek_classic/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/horton_finished.jpg The Magic Place Fading light illuminates an area of prolific fall foliage in the depths of Horton Creek, a spring fed oasis located in the Tonto National Forest outside of Payson, AZ. Tonto National Forest, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/fall_color_zion/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/zion_checkerboard_mesa_clone_final.jpg Delicate Balance Prolific fall colors of several small, big tooth maples are revealed here in a deep gully in the Zion National Park's eastern section. I was attracted to the contrast of the trunks against the sandstone cliffs and the delicate spray of color that accompanied it. Zion National Park, Ut https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/backlit_hodoos/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/bryce_canyon_needlesvv.jpg Radiance Backlit hodoos glow in mid morning light near Fairyland Vista at Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bryce_sunrise_fall_2010/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/first-shot-brcye-hoodoos-fall.jpg Rising Glow The rising sun heats up a chilly fall morning at Bryce Canyon National Park. The first rays of light illuminate the glowing hoodoos while the reflected light brings out the deepest reds in the canyon. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mount_wilson_panorma/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/Wilson_Mesa_Master_1.jpg Boundless A swift moving storm front moves through the San Juan Mountains near Telluride, CO after blanketing Mount Wilson and its surrounding peaks with snow overnight. This is a two shot, horizontal, panoramic image taken in the heart of autumn. Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/woods_lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8834woods_lake_light_1_blend_master_2.jpg Profusion Evening A profusion of fall colors accented by stillness, blue skies, and warm light on a quiet evening at Woods Lake near Telluride, Colorado in the San Juan Mountains. Uncompahgre National Forest, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bisti/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/bisti_Rocks_blend_master.jpg The March of the Ancients The Bisti Badlands of New Mexico is place of unique and austere beauty. Pictured here just after sunrise, these otherworldly rock formations are known as the "cracked eggs" and represent a small part of this largely unexplored wilderness. Bisti Wilderness, New Mexico https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hamilton_creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8599Hamilton_Domes_Blend_Master.jpg Land of Enchantment Dappled sunlight shows off the morning colors of a high alpine drainage near the Great Western Divide. The Hamilton Domes glisten in the background while Hamilton Creek spills and tumbles down the side of a steep pass. This image was captured 17 miles into the backcountry just off the High Sierra Trail in the southern heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Sequoia National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/point_sublime_last_light/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8389FG_Blend_3_Master_Done.jpg Point Sublime Fast moving clouds are briefly illuminated during the time of last light near Point Sublime at the North Rim, Arizona. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/robbers_roost/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/juryofthestorm.jpg Jury of the Storm Rock chimneys and platforms grace Robber's Roost, a remote canyon vista on the North Rim. This view is from  a side canyon looking out to the main portion of the Grand Canyon. This image was captured at sunset during a clearing storm. The amount of green located in this area made an impression upon me in stark contrast to the bone dry conditions of main portions of the canyon. The elevation of this view point is nearly 8,000 feet. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/point_sublime/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8412The_Kiss_master.jpg Heaven's Kiss An incredibly windy evening at Point Sublime, a remote backcountry view point on the North Rim. For a fleeting moment,  two clouds simultaneously came together in harmony for this image taken just after sunset.  The South Rim is located in the far distance on the right and the Colorado River is below that... Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/cliff_detail/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8344Building_Blocks.jpg Building Blocks These unique geologic rock formations caught my attention near Robber's Roost deep in the backcountry of Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. You are looking at a close up of cliff detail taken during an overcast morning in the late summer. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/grand_view/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_5016_1177A-Trees-Perspective_Master_Flattened.jpg His Perspective A solitaire, green bush overlooks the subtle palettes of sunset near Grand View Point in Canyonlands NP, Ut. A fire beckons in the background as the last rays of light accentuante some of the colorful mesas in the Colorado Plateau. The road you see on the right hand side of the image is called the White Rim Road. It is a 100 miles in length and  traces its course around the canyonlands. It takes most folks three days to drive it. Canyonlands National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/thank-you-for-this-day/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_1177Thank_You_For_This_Day_1_Master.jpg Thank You For This Day A high altitude stream in the Ansel Adams Wilderness is a direct result of snow melt from the Minarets. Pictured here in the middle of July, the ground was just starting to thaw with color. Ansel Adams Wilderness, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/dana_reflections/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/IMG_0634Dana_Meadow_Reflection_Master.jpg Joy and Happiness Early summer is a special time of year in the high country at Yosemite National Park, CA. A captivating, magical area with expansive, snow capped views and pristine, wide open beauty. I wanted to capture the feeling of space here in the meadow in combination with the clouds, light, water, snow, flowers and trees. This reminds how special Yosemite really is and what an awesome God we serve for creating it. For this image, I waited unit the light had just removed itself from the small tarn in the foreground for capture. It was also a bit tricky to get just the right amount of clouds in the frame in combination with a clear reflection as this was a 6 second exposure, which is rather long for an image taken outside during the day. Yosemite National Park, California https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/tovrea_castle/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/torvealcastleMasterB.jpg A Pensive Reminder The Tovrea Castle, an icon in Phoenix, was built in 1926 and is owned by the city. The surrounding garden, called the "Carraro Cactus Garden" boasts over 5000 cacti and over 100 different varities. Sadly, the castle is closed to the public because of a lack of state funds. However, many volunteers work to keep its grounds pristine. This image was taken as the first rays of sunrise graced the garden. The castle's lights were still on. Tovrea Castle, Phoenix, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bucksin_gulch_tree/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7576passage_blend_master.jpg The Passage This image realistically demonstrates the intensity of the reflected light in certain slot canyons across the Southwest. This sandstone photo was captured in Buckskin Gulch, one of the world's largest slot canyons at over 13 miles in length. I included the stone covered ground to provide necessary perspective for the height and size of the fallen and wedged tree. I estimate this tree was approximately 20 to 25 feet off the ground and water was responsible for it getting there! Pretty amazing when you think about it.... Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness, UT & AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/great_basin_lake_vertical/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7950baker_Vertical_blend.jpg Boulevard of Broken Dreams The cirque you're looking at is nearly 12,000 feet high. The amount of ice that developed on this lake during a cold night in late June was unexpected. It forced me to change my composition from what I had pre-scouted the day before. The patterns in the ice were extremely mesmerizing and I used them here as a leading line into the scene of frozen reflections, snow, and playful light. It turned out to be a very overcast day and we were fortunate to get such a clean alpenglow at sunrise. Great Basin National Park, Nevada https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bryce_canyon_moon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7222brycecanyonmoommaster.jpg Bad Moon Rising Ambient sunset light glows on the hoodoos, spires, and pinnacles in Bryce Canyon UT while an incredibly orangish-yellow  full moon rises in the opposite direction. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/great_basin/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7944bakerlakereflectionfg4.jpg The Far Reaches An incredibly difficult, two-night backpacking trip led us to this off-trail lake in Great Basin National Park. This is an extreme wide angle shot of our morning view. Here I was focusing on the frozen reflection and ice in the lake. Great Basin National Park, Nevada https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/vision-of-excellence/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8172narrowssplitbendrockmaster.jpg Vision of Excellence This is a difficult shot to make because of the timing involved. This is a very deep section of the slot canyon where light is at a premium. Here I captured the scene right at peak conditions resulting in a magnificent ambient glow on the sandstone. I used a relatively short shutter speed to present the rapids in their most aesthetic state. Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/horseshoe_bend/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/horshoeblend3.jpg Transition Zone What you see here is a beautiful sunset amidst peaceful, blue skies. What you don't see is the rest of the Colorado Plateau enshrouded in dark clouds and storm light. The sky was covered in clouds less than an hour before this shot, but as the sun began to set the storm also dispersed. This was the result at Horseshoe Bend facing almost due west. I chose an abstract view of the Colorado River to best present the sky and its dramatic colors. Page, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/narrows_rock/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8130hugerocknarrows.jpg Rock of Ages An early afternoon glow illuminates the sides of Zion National Park's Virgin River Narrows. The large boulder in the river is testament to incredible force of the water when it reaches flood levels. The spacing and colors of the three trees on the left hand side of the image compliment the scene. Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/narrows_light/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_81633rddimension_1.jpg Third Dimension Incredible light makes its way through a dark passage deep in a swift moving section of the Narrows at Zion National Park, UT. This shot is a result of precise timing to optimize both the light conditions as well as the shutter speed to showcase the rapids of the Virgin River. Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/pyramid_peak/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7893pyramidpeakdonemoon.jpg The Lost Pyramid You are looking at 11,926 ft Pyramid Peak in the backcountry of Great Basin National Park. This vantage point was captured before sunset from a lake nearby our campsite. Great Basin National Park, Nevada https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/light_of_the_narrows/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8191lightofthenarrows_4.jpg Guiding Light Intense light beckons the wayward traveler through the heart of Wall Street - the signature section of Zion National Park's famous "Narrows." Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bakercreek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_8031bakerstreamwatercombo2crop.jpg The Premium Destiny This is a picture of one of Nevada's most beautiful streams called Baker Creek, shown here on a partly cloudy afternoon in late June. The aspen trees compliment the water and are a wonderful addition to this celebrated watershed. Great Basin National Park, NV https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/may_flowers/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/neighborsflowersmaster2.jpg A Subtle Acquaintance A wonderful late spring bloom caught my attention during a walk through our neighborhood. The combinations of horizontal and vertical lines on this cactus (euphorbia resinifera) with prolific colors make it a joy to view. Phoenix, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/season-of-growth/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/bulbsmastercrop1.jpg Season of Growth Saguaro cactus bulbs ready to burst during a prolific spring bloom. I was attracted to the round blooms on the linear cactus spines shown here. This particular cactus was extremely healthy and very well kept on the state's private, manicured grounds. Torvea Castle, Phoenix, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/natural-company/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7446upppercalfcreek.jpg Natural Company Upper Calf Creek Falls is a lush, verdant, riparian area full of zeal and life. I was attracted to the incredible colors of the desert varnish, rock, moss, plants, and flowers. Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/wave2/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/horizontalblend2.jpg The Wild Ride This is the landscape version of the "Carnival of Color" image seen here. The difference in color was a result of the ever changing light conditions at "the wave". This image was captured before the other resulting in a slightly softer color palette. Coyote Buttes Wilderness, UT & AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/roots/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/roots3.jpg Roots A solitaire tree miraculously grows on the pink cliffs of Bryce Canyon's backcountry walls. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/calfcreekfalls1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/calfcreektreesbarkfocusmerge5.jpg True Odyssey Lower Calf Creek Falls in Utah is certainly one of the most amazing waterfalls in the country. What surprised me even more was the absolutely pristine three mile hike leading to the falls. One of the best hikes I have ever taken. Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mudcanyon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/blendmudcanyon12th.jpg The Awakening Over the two weeks of exploring, this was the best light we witnessed and what an awesome location. From the backcountry of Bryce Canyon National Park, UT we were treated to this long lasting and wonderful display of light at sunrise perched from a colorful, steep, cliff side view. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/wave1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7692wavevertical3.jpg Carnival of Color An abstract image of "the wave" photographed at sunrise. I rendered the sandstone colors here as natural as possible. The Bureau of Land Management only allows 20 fortunate individuals per day back to this amazing place near the Arizona - Utah border. Coyote Buttes Wilderness, UT & AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/eye-of-the-beholder/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7548eyeofthebeholder.jpg Eye of the Beholder Spectacular light dances about the sculpted features of rock in Buckskin Gulch on the Utah - Arizona border. The shape of the sandstone rock and the wild display of fire in the background is what attracted me to this composition. Buckskin Gulch is the longest slot canyon in the world at over 13 miles in length. Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness, UT & AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/forbidden-kingdom/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7519canaanmountain2.jpg Forbidden Kingdom Sculpted slick rock, lush foliage, and springs of water await the adventurous traveler who takes a trip to the forbidden land of Canaan Mountain, UT. Canaan Mountain Wilderness, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/native-mystery/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/_MG_7125firstimagelowerantelope.jpg Native Mystery The reflected light of Antelope Canyon (Arizona) creates faces, shapes, and textures amongst the sandstone caverns. Here I was drawn to the purple hues of the swirls and the illumination in the background chamber. Navajo Indian Reservation, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/designs-of-winter/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/monumentvalleycompressionB.jpg Designs of Winter The mixing of snow, red mud, and late afternoon light forms a pleasing abstract in the heart of Monument Valley on the Navajo Indian Reservation. Monument Valley Tribal Park, Utah and Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/narrows-rapids/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/narrowsintenseCcropped.jpg The Anoiting This image shows the intense rushing waters of the Virgin River accompanied by an explosion of color along its banks. I was drawn to this scene because of the rapids in the foreground and the straight away view deep into the canyon. Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/redmountains/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/meadowsfinished.jpg Field of Dreams A clearing storm in combination with smoke from a controlled burn casts an ominous presence on the mountains near Tuolumne Meadows just after sunset. Yosemite National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/swirly-narrows/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/swirlynarrowsB.jpg The Revolving Door This is a picture of a quiet, peaceful late afternoon scene during a trip in the Narrows. During the summer, the Virgin River turns a pristine aquamarine color which accentuates the beauty of this spectacular place. Here I was attracted the flowing rapids and how they mimicked the contours of the walls in symmetry. In the background, the towering cliffs converge and form a checkered pattern vanishing point. Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/a-touch-of-joy/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/wildflowers.jpg A Touch of Joy Arizona Lupine, Brittlebrush, and splash of Apricot Mallow grace the desert foothills near Gonzalez Pass outside of Phoenix. The late afternoon sunlight created just enough contrast to accentuate the patterns and colors of the scene shot on an eroded hillside.  Tonto National Forest, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/waterfall/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/shenandoahwaterfall.jpg Intimacy A serene collection of tranquility in White Oak Canyon where water, rocks, and forest rest in early evening light. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/gunnison/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/crownoflight2stephanieA.jpg Crown of Light Early morning light trickles down the awe inspiring canyon of Colorado's raging Gunnison River. This image was captured while balancing precariously at the edge of a large rock in the Gunnison River. This river is dangerous and very swift and to get this shot required making a perilous trip down the canyon walls.    Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, CO https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/royalarch/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/royalarchlakeC.jpg Rock of Respite The incredible beauty of Royal Arch Lake is hard to depict in just a photograph. There is simply no way to capture its full scale impression in one image. Here I was drawn to the comfortable, intimate scene of rocks and trees in a secluded corner of the lake. I also wanted to capture the topography for which the lake was named. The polished granite domes and arches make it a classic High Sierra destination. Located deep in the heart of Yosemite National Park's backcountry, the two day trek is a journey worth traveling - just make sure you bring your DEET and mosquito nets! Yosemite National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/yellowstone-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/yellowstonelakebwdone.jpg Rock Hopping Yellowstone Lake, the largest lake in North American above 7500 feet, is pictured here during some of its lowest water levels of the year. This image was captured in the fall, about 1/2 hour before a massive blizzard engulfed the lake in a whiteout. I was attracted to this scene by the dramatic skies, snowcapped mountains, and liked the spacing of the exposed rocks in the lake and how my eye followed them back and forth across the water. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/telluride/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/kingofaithraw.jpg The King of Faith The approaching danger of the summer monsoon season is foreshadowed with fierce skies illuminating a 12,000 foot peak in Colorado's high country near Telluride. San Juan Mountains, Colorado https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/lines-of-tomorrow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/dunes1eBW.jpg Lines of Tomorrow You are looking at a black and white interpretation of a hidden view deep within the boundaries of the Mesquite Flats sand dunes. The lines, textures, and shadow play is what makes this place so special. In some areas, the sand is so pristine one feels bad just walking on it. Death Valley National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/kitchen-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/rickettscreekBW.jpg Poetry in Motion A black and white image of Kitchen Creek, the main watershed in Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania. Water levels were way up on this day and I was drawn to the S curve in the creek. I tried to capture this image at the most appropriate shutter speed to best demonstrate the fluid motion of the rapids.  Ricketts Glen State Park, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/minarets/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/anseladamstarn.jpg Always a Second Chance I was immediately awestruck by the pristine beauty of the Ansel Adams Wilderness. This is California at its absolute finest. Here you see the iconic peaks of Mount Ritter (13,149 ft) and Banner Beak (12,936 ft) known collectively as the Minarets, reflected in morning alpenglow from a high altitude tarn. I had scouted this location the previous day and this was taken at sunrise.  Ansel Adams Wilderness, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/ghosts-of-the-whisperer/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/scorpioncanyon.jpg Ghosts of the Whisperer The title of this image comes from the isolation you feel while spending time on the Channel Islands in the winter. During the week, there was virtually no one else present and every morning we'd awake to scenes like this - low lying fog creeping in throughout the island's valleys. This image was taken on the largest of the five islands, Santa Cruz Island, which is 22 miles long and to 2 to 6 miles wide. At one time, it was the largest, privately owned island in the world. During our visit, it was primarily dry except for these large clumps of these California morning glory flowers, which grew in stark contrast to the rest of the island's vegetation. Channel Islands National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/havasufalls/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/havasufallsrock.jpg Rebirthing a Legend A cryptic display of rock and disheveled earth is testament to the flash flood that devastated Havasupai Canyon in 2009, so much so that several of the canyon's waterfalls were completely destroyed. Nevertheless, the travertine beauty and authority of the area's signature waterfall, Havasu Falls still remains and is undeniable... Havasupai Indian Reservation, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mooney/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/belowmooneyfalls.jpg Journey to Existence An incredible display of power and color surrounding the cascading waters beneath 200 ft plus Mooney Falls. The journey to the base of this fall is dangerous and not for the faint of heart. In this image, you witness the aquamarine color of Havasu Creek complimented by the tremendously brilliant, reflected orange, light on the canyon walls. Havasupai Indian Reservation, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/greens/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/cathedral1.jpg A Step in the Right Direction The vibrant greens in a marshy tarn glow with the setting sun while a pristine reflection of Cathedral Peak beckons the intrepid hiker. Despite the clean reflection, it was very windy that afternoon. I was drawn to this area because of the shapes of the grasses in the water. This photo was captured when the light hitting the grasses at its absolute lowest point right before the tarn went into shadow. Yosemite National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/grand-canyon-tuolumne/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/grandcanyontuolumne.jpg Heavenly World You are looking at what ends up as the drinking water for the city of San Francisco. A remote and rugged place, the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne River, is a place of incredible beauty.  While this area is primarily known for its crystal clear rapids and granite domes and peaks, it was the majestic trees that inspired this image. Yosemite National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/covered/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/covered.jpg Covered An ancient growth forest overlooks cascading waters as fall colors subtly accent another lush signature Smoky mountain scene. Great Smoky Mountain National Park, TN https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mormon-barn/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/mormonbarnsoutput.jpg A Warm Welcome Warm, rich colors make this classic shot of Mormon Row come alive. It is complimented by a record breaking snowfall on the background peaks, which was still present at 9,000 feet in early July. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/crossing-the-boundary/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/boundarycreekdone1.jpg Crossing the Boundary The tranquil, yet deceptive waters of Boundary Creek radiate during a special sunset of conflicting weather. One of the more remote areas of the park, it features boundless meadows, abundant wildlife and water, and healthy population of douglas firs and lodgepole pines. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/timeless-wanderer/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/tremanstairs1finishedbw.jpg Timeless Wanderer Stillness sets in as moments leading up to a storm come to pass during a cloudy, fall afternoon. The stone footpath leading through the Robert Treman Gorge beckons the wanderer on through its waterfalls and forest of pervasive beauty. Robert H. Treman State Park is located in Tompkins County just outside of Ithaca in the Finger Lakes region of New York.     Robert Treman State Park, New York https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-fallen/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/palousebwdone.jpg The Fallen A weathered landscape of wood and debris decorate an otherwise barren field of grain near the western border of the Palouse on a lonely summer afternoon. I've always been captivated by the character and charm of desolate, run down, barns. On this particular occasion, I wa dealing with extreme temperatures (over 105 degrees), dry and brittle grass scratching me, and angry birds nested in the barn.   The Palouse, Washington https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/moshannon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/moshannon1finishedcolor.jpg A Brilliant Discovery Sunshine burns the last of lingering fog revealing an incredible display of foliage on a pristine fall morning along the banks of Pennsylvania's most beautiful swamp, the Black Moshannon. I had read many good things about this park, but was never in a hurry to go out and see a swamp. On this particular trip, I was in the area so I thought I'd check it out. And this image doesn't live up to the natural beauty of this place. It is wonderful and this was some of the best foliage I had seen in years. Black Moshannon State Park, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/string-lake-reflections/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/tetonreflectionscrop.jpg Looking Within An unconventional composition reveals dramatic mid morning reflections of the craggy, snow capped heart of the Tetons as seen from String Lake. This was taken in early summer, when the snows levels were abnormally high and the mountains were decorated with lush and vibrant green color. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/pilgrimview/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/pilgrimviewnewadjstephanie.jpg A Comforting Truth A meadow of lupines frames this marshy view of the Teton mountains on a perfectly still, damp, dawn twilight. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bechler/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/bechlerrivefinish2.jpg The Master of Light The glowing fields of Bechler Meadows are dissected by the crystal clear waters of the Bechler River with the Grand Tetons serving as a backdrop to the splendor. This image was captured as a large storm front moved swiftly westward over the Teton Range.   Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/uppercathedral/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/uppercathedraldone3smarthsharpencropvibrance.jpg Crown of Glory The golden glow of sunset dapples briefly on the high crests of Cathedral Peak (10,991 ft) and in the waters of Upper Cathedral Lake. Cathedral Peak is the highest point in the Cathedral Range, an offshoot of the Sierra Nevada and a popular destination for both rock climbers and hikers. Yosemite National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/watkins-glen/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/watkinsglen1output.jpg Exceeding the Possibility Lines, angles, and a profusion of color are some of the reasons why Watkins Glen is a must see location for those traveling in the North East. Here I used the side of the trail as a leading line while the foliage draws the viewers eye through the scene. Watkins Glen State Park, New York https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/power/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/power2outputstephanie2.jpg Power An early evening thunderstorm ominously descends on the Ruby Mountains, as seen from a perch in Thompson Canyon amidst a turbulent overflow of racing snowmelt. Located near Elko, NV this range is locally known as Nevada's version of the Sierra Nevada and is certainly pristine enough to merit that title. These mountains have a top elevation of 11,387 feet and are part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Ruby Mountain Wilderness, Nevada https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/narrowstree/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/zionlastpicdone.jpg Tree of Perserverance Fading light radiates the stark beauty of the magical Virgin River as it weaves through a widening canyon. Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/schwabacher/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/schwbacheraedit.jpg Unparalleled Brilliance The soft light of sunrise illuminates the Teton peaks still covered in snow above 8500 feet reflected in the launching waters near Schwabacher Landing. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/forest-of-imagination/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/undinemastervv.jpg Forest of Imagination Lava Creek splashes and falls nearly 110 ft  through rust colored cliffs near the northern entrance to Yellowstone National Park creating Undine Falls; shown here just minutes before the arrival of the first major autumn snowstorm of the year. Yellowstone National Park, Montana https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/destination-grandeur/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/sprayparkfinishedBsharper.jpg Destination Grandeur In the summertime, one of the most beautiful places in all of North America is Mount Rainier's Spray Park. A pristine meadow nestled at an elevation of 5400 ft.  It typically features world class wildflowers along with in-your-face views of a false summit, called Liberty Cap (14,112 ft) Behind it, and out of sight, is the true summit recently measured at 14, 411 ft.  For this image, I was drawn to this abundant grove of magenta indian paintbrush and other flowers located near a large, track of snow and rocks leading its way up the mountain, pictured here at sunset. Mount Rainier National Park, WA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/intricate-discernment/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/dunesblendlayersdone5reblen.jpg Intricate Discernment Sunbeams kiss the golden dunes of Mesquite Flats as another pleasant, sunny day in Death Valley comes to a close. Death Valley National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/heapscanyon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/emardlpools.jpg Flowing Grace Dusk quietly sets on Heaps Canyon, an expansive, cavernous like cathedral featuring a series of waterfalls called the Emerald Pools, as seen here in the spring. Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/embracing-the-season/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/vfalls1web2.jpg Embracing the Season The angular, slick rock laden waters of Robert Treman gorge painted with color just minutes before rain on eerie, fall afternoon. The V shaped, smooth streambed is an uncommon site and was the reason for this photograph. I spent quite a bit of time in the water constructing this image and it was cold. Robert Treman State Park, New York https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/penns-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/pennscreekoutputstephanie.jpg Retreat of Reflections Widely considered one of the best trout fishing streams on the East Coast this image features a softer, more subdued side of the creek taken in soltitude on a eerie, foggy morning in the middle of fall. This place holds special meaning in my heart as I spent many wonderful childhood days here enjoying and fostering my love for the outdoors. Penn's Creek, Aaronsburg, Pennsylvania https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/apocalyptic-vision/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/greatfallsadj1.jpg Apocalyptic Vision A fantastic display of light over the Mather Gorge area of the Potomac River during a late autumn sunrise in Great Falls Park, Virginia. This was probably one of the 3 best sunrises I have ever witnessed. During this image, the river was actually running lower than normal allowing me to get further out on the rocks. I had pre-scouted the location the night before. The clouds seem to appear out of nowhere as it looked to be a relatively clear morning and I certainly wasn't expecting this kind of result. The river forms the natural border between the states of Maryland and Virginia and is popular with hikers, kayakers, and rock climbers.  Great Falls Park, Virginia https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/following-a-dream/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/narrowsblend3.jpg Following a Dream... Another view of the seemingly endless twists and turns of the Virgin River as it carves its way through towering canyon walls. Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/glen/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/3rdfallricketts2outputstephanie.jpg Forever Changing A picturesque look at the flaming colors and dream like waters surrounding Harrison Reynolds Falls – arguably Pennsylvania’s most beautiful waterfall. This was taken on a rainy day, perfect for accentuating the vibrant colors of the forest while keep the scene in low contrast for photography. Ricketts Glen State Park, PA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/wallstreet/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/narrows2Cwallmergedonecrop.jpg The Lost Intense views, colorful water and boundless walls are the common themes in Wall Street, the signature section of narrows nestled deep within Zion National Park's Virgin River Canyon.  Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/smoky/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/herbtime.jpg The Paradoxical Journey Autumn is peak season for hiking in the Great Smokys. Here you see the trademark style of landscape in this region; silky, smooth water churning over a bookshelf of mossy boulders amongst wind, rain, and colorful trees. Great Smoky Mountain National Park, TN https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/day-of-atonement/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/sanddunesbw.jpg Day of Atonement A rare sight - Yei Bei Chi and the Totem Pole formations in the Monument Valley Tribal Park after three  straight days of rain. This image was taken at sunrise as the weather began to clear. Monument Valley Tribal Park, UT & AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/2nd-beach/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/olympicDdone.jpg The Beauty Within The Olympic Peninsula features some of the most diverse topography in the world. Unfortunately, the weather here is very unpredictable and at many times, unpleasant. About an hour before this photo, the sky was perfectly clear and suddenly these thick clouds descended. Here the patterns of the surf compliment the stark skyline of Second Beach as the contrasting colors of blue and red battle for supremacy in the sky and in the reflected sand and ocean. Olympic National Park, WA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/zabriski-point/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/zabriski1cropwhitebalance.jpg Genesis of Imagination The pastel colors of dawn illuminate the surreal, rolling badlands near Manly Beacon & Zabriskie Point in Death Valley National Park. Beyond the badlands, you can see a large pool of water located in the salt flats called Lake Manly. This represents the lowest point in the North America, at 282 feet below sea level. What's even more amazing are the snow capped Panamint Mountains in the background rise to over 11,000 feet! Death Valley National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/dunes1/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/dunesday1doneCnoiseinskygone.jpg Flowing Lines of Serenity Late afternoon sunlight illuminates the flowing dunes of Mesquite Flats  and cloaks the Grapevine Mountains as clouds gently settle in during a peaceful spring evening. The Grapevine Mountains form part of the eastern boundary separating California and Nevada. Death Valley National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/granite-canyon/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/tetonstreamcrop.jpg Spell of Subtlety Autumn is a quiet time of year in the Grand Tetons. The hordes of summer tourists are gone and ski season has yet to begin. Water levels can be notoriously low in the mountains, and after 3 days of backpacking, I returned to this scene in Granite Canyon that captured my attention earlier in the trip. The sometimes prolific foliage and wonderful water and rocks hidden deep in the park's multitude of canyons, are not its most distinguishing feature, but these intimate moments are beautiful nonetheless.   Grand Teton National Park, WY https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/dana-meadow/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/dana1finished2.jpg The Combustible Solstice Fast moving clouds and intense blue skies accentuate the beauty of Mount Dana, Yosemite National Park's 2nd highest peak at 13,061 ft. Yosemite National Park, CA https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/union-falls/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/unionfallsdonetkedits2.jpg Union of One One of the most dramatic waterfalls anywhere in North America is Yellowstone's Union Falls. Its 265 ft. plunge makes it the second largest fall in the park. Accessible only by remote backcountry hiking, the falls are captured here during dramatic daytime storm light. It was raining off and on during our visit, further accentuating the already spectacular colors of the foliage. Union Falls get its name for the merging of three watersheds as shown here.   Yellowstone National Park, WY https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mallard-lake/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/mallardfinaldone.jpg A Wild Embrace Glowing grass accentuates the banks of Mallard Lake just before sunset. Complimented by an unusual cloud formation, the reflections and evening light decorated the surrounding forest, which was decimated by wildfires in 1988. Yellowstone National Park, WY https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/zion-narrows-ultra-blend/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/narrowsblendfinishedultraed.jpg The Magic Kingdom Mysterious walls of color and trees captivate your imagination on a grand scale while hiking in the Zion Narrows. Zion National Park, UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/alum-creek/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/alumcreekoutputready.jpg Beyond the Call Late September occasionally brings snow to the high meadows of Yellowstone National Park. This view is near Alum Creek with Mount Washburn (10,223 ft) beckoning in the background. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/placid-awareness/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/fossilbirthdayshot.jpg Placid Awareness Streams truly come alive in the Fossil Springs Wilderness where underground springs pump out water at a rate of 20,000 gallons per minute. Here a freshly fallen tree accentuates the beauty of the area. This photo was taken on my birthday in early October just minutes before the sun radiated into the canyon, which is also part of the Coconino National Forest. Fossil Springs Wilderness, Arizona https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/supernatural-expectations/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/supernaturalexpectations.jpg Supernatural Expectations Lush, vibrant colors compliment the red rock lined slot of the Big Springs section of Zion's Virgin River backcountry. This photo was captured as the canyon walls glowed with warm, reflected afternoon light turning them a bright orange. Zion National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-learning-curve/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/slots1finished.jpg The Learning Curve The sensous, sandstone lines, curves, and shadows of lower Antelope Canyon create distinctive opportunities for photographic creativity. The slot canyon is part of the Navajo Indian Reservation near Page, AZ.  Antelope Canyon, AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-mittens/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/mittenssunset.jpg The Aftermath The Mittens are certainly one of the most recognizable and iconic views in the United States. PIctured here after three days of rare torrential rains (in May), the clouds slowly began to clear for this view, taken about an hour before sunset. The heavy rains saturated the pastel colors of the sand and are complimented by some of Arizona's grandest skies. A road leading through the park intersects the middle of this scene. Monument Valley Tribal Park, UT and AZ https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/silent-city/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/silentcitydone.jpg City Lights Clusters of hoodoos make up an area called Silent City in Bryce Canyon National Park, UT. This scene was taken just after sunrise as the sandstone formations glow with electricity. The large formation in the upper right corner of the image is called Thor's Hammer. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/bryce-canyon-rain/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/brycecanyoraindone2.jpg Tears from Above A late afternoon rainstorm in Bryce Canyon, UT makes for dramatic scenery. I was drawn to the large amount of green forest wedged in between the pastel orange hoodoos as the skies opened and the rain came down. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/brycesunrise/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/brycedone1.jpg Celestial Alignment An incredible display of light as the sun rises beyond Bryce Canyon's "Silent City" during monsoon season. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/mesa-arch/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/mesaarchvvfinishoutputdarken.jpg Window of Opportunity The sun beckons over the La Sal Mountains (12,721 ft) as seen through Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park. Canyonlands National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/hoodoos/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/hodoos.jpg Secret of Desolation Set against magnificent blue skies, a small, wind swept tree distinguishes the scene of eroded sandstone hoodoos sitting gracefully inside the Bryce Canyon amphitheater . Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/capitolreef/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/capitolreefdonefinal4.jpg Solar Infusion The criss crossing rays of first light in Capitol Reef NP make its Navajo Sandstone cliffs glow in splendor.  Capitol Reef National Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/alstrom/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/minimalistic.jpg The Last Rememberance Cryptobiotic Rock near Lake Powell, Utah. This stark, barren landscape comes alive in the early morning with soft light, pastel colors, and some dramatic clouds. This shot was taken about 1/2 hour after sunrise. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, AZ & UT https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/the-dividing-line/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/huntsmesa.jpg The Dividing Line A massive, late afternoon dust storm heads for Hunt's Mesa. I witnessed this scene from a lower lying cliff surrounded by spring time vegetation on the Navajo Indian Reservation. Monument Valley Tribal Park, Arizona & Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/dead-horse/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/deadhorsevv1.jpg The Chocolate Factory An almost unbelievable scene of clouds and light spill onto the gaping overlook of the meadenering Colorado River near Dead Horse Point. The park gets its name because it was used as a natural corral by cowboys decades ago. The plateau is surrounded by sheer cliffs two thousand feet high, with only a narrow stretch of land. Wranglers used this to keep rounded up wild horses from running away. Legend has it that one group of horses was inadvertently left behind and eventually died of thirst. Dead Horse Point State Park, Utah https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/grandstage/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/grandparkdonenoisereduceandvibrance.jpg The Grand Stage An incredible sunset on Mount Rainier with a proliferation of wildflowers in an area called Grand Park. This is a difficult area to reach without spending at least one night in the backcountry. The problem is the closest backcountry camp sites to this location are almost two miles of steep hiking away. The mosquitoes were so intense here - I would not change my lens for fear of bugs getting on my sensor. I was wearing gloves, a head net, a long sleeve shirt, and 100 % DEET, and l was still chewed alive. On the hike back, the trail was so dark and poorly maintained, I almost got lost. Nevertheless, I wouldn't hesitate to do it again.... Mount Rainier National Park, Washington https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/shenandoah/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/fogstreamlayersfinishsmartsharpenprophoto.jpg Reign of One Fall colors come to life as the rain and fog roll in on a typical blustery day in Shenandoah. This was taken in the late afternoon as the fog rolled in and the rain really started to get heavy. The rocks were extremely slippery. Even though it was raining - the water levels were very low, which worked perfectly for this particular image.  Shenandoah National Park, Virginia https://www.wildmoments.net/photo/wupatki/ https://www.wildmoments.net/images/xl/watpatkisunriseoutput1.jpg Ancient Remains A stunning display of color and light fills the sky above Flagstaff highlighting an incredible morning at the Wupatki National Monument. I had previously scouted this composition during a photo workshop and wanted to capture it with snow on the San Fransisco peaks (highest point in Arizona at 12, 663 ft) in the winter. Wapatki National Monument is over 1500 feet lower in elevation than Flagstaff and doesn't get as much snow. This image was made about 48 hours after the largest snow storm in a decade hit Flagstaff. We monitored the weather reports and road conditions closely and as soon as it looked promising - we made the trip from Phoenix. Even though it was ten degrees outside, to capture the 1000 year old ruins in these kind of conditions can only be called be a blessing... 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