Blogs from Arches National Park, Utah, United States, North America - page 9

Distance: 5 miles (Balanced Rock: 0.25 mile, The Windows Loop: 1.25 miles, Double Arch: 0.5 mile, Delicate Arch: 3 miles) Difficulty: easy-moderate Most of the first day of our trip to Moab was spent in the car, so we were definitely ready to get out and stretch our legs upon arrival. As soon as my dad and I checked into our hotel room, we dropped our bags, changed into hiking gear rushed out to get in a few short hikes in Arches. Spring in this area is definitely a nice time to be out hiking. Despite getting into the park during the height of the afternoon, the weather stayed pleasant for our first short trip. We decided that we wanted to keep the afternoon’s activities simple to save our legs for a longer hike the next ... read more

So after it dumped loads in Jackson, we went boarding for one more day. The drive around the mountain in the morning was very scary as the roads were completely covered in snow and as I had no snow chains had to drive really slowly. Kelly kept telling me I was going too fast! The last day riding was excellent though. The snow was 18 inches deep and there was powder everywhere. I did quite a bit of filming and managed to crash a few times. At the end of the day taking off my boots I noticed blood all over my socks and down my leg. One crash with Kelly had cut both of my shins quite badly. Oh well. It was still a great day. Check out my Ski Sunday style short video of ... read more

Posted by: Onaxthiel- Waking up in Vail in the early morning presented us with a far prettier day than the one we had driven into town in. The sky was clear, the temperatures were a bit warmer, and the wind was down. After a morning of doing laundry at J's place, we hit the road about 10:30, and started heading west. I-70 runs through a stretch of road called Glenwood Canyon. The signs tell us that the road "is the most celebrated 12 miles in the interstate system." I could see why. The view, even in the winter, was beautiful. A river runs along side the highway, and the mountains were left as untouched as possible by the builders to try to preserve the view for passengers. Hypothetically, for drivers too, but if I had been ... read more

This morning, we’re in Arches National Park again for another sunrise shoot. After parking at Panorama Point overlook, we set up tripods in the cold and wait. Success! The clouds scattered throughout the sky reflect the sun’s rays rewarding us with colorful photographic opportunities. Later, the group stops at the Fiery Furnace parking area to catch photos of the sun’s reflections on the sandstone formations. A permit is required to hike here and choosing a ranger-guided tour is smart since it’s easy to get lost in the labyrinth of canyons and fins. By the time we reach Devil’s Garden campground, many of the campers are cooking breakfast. It’s hard photographing the backside of Skyline Arch while the aroma of bacon wafts through the air, reminding me that I haven’t had break... read more

After leaving Valley of the Gods, Alan and I travel through southern Utah to Moab to meet Jim Altengarten for one of his Exposure 36 photo workshops. The group consists of five male photography students. As usual, Jim is kind enough to allow me to tag along and document the experience. Although I don’t receive any instruction, I’m allowed to take my own photographs. The workshop begins with a sunset shoot in Arches National Park . First, we stop at an overlook for a far-off view of Balancing Rock. Other rock monuments populate a valley with the the La Sal Mountains forming an impressive background. Puffy storm clouds add drama to the scene. After a few practice shots, the group drives to the parking lot for Balancing Rock. A crowd has gathered to capture the sun’s ... read more