Mesa Arch is probably one of the most-photographed landmarks in Canyonlands National Park, but after watching Ken Burns’ new documentary “Our National Parks: America’s Best Idea”, I couldn’t help but post this shot–somewhat cliché, but one of my favorites.
Mesa Arch at sunrise, Canyonlands National Park, Utah, December 2008
Located in the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands, Mesa Arch is lit brilliantly at sunrise as light reflects off the walls of Buck Canyon below. The brilliant light only lasts a few moments, and I was very happy to be able to capture the sunburst as the sun crested the horizon to the west. Although I’d hoped to experience the arch by myself, I was joined by about 7 other photographers, all gathered in an arc around the arch, but hopefully everyone got shots they were happy with. To claim my spot, I stood in the dark for ~1.5 hours in 0 degree F temperatures.
Although I lived in Wyoming, I’m a now a fully acclimated southern Californian making that was a very cold morning, but very worth it. My wife and son were also able to come along…at the time Owen was only 11 months old:
Stephanie and Owen Russell, December 2008 (self portrait by Stephanie Russell)
Enjoy and have a great October!
Both great shots (second one is cuter). I’ve been the Mesa arch twice, both midweek winter mornings, and had the place to myself both times. Where you there on a weekend, or was it a holiday week? I would think winter would be less crowded there.