Mesa Arch
We barely had time to check in to our motel and grab a bite to eat before heading out to our first photo stop while in Moab: sunset at the Green River Overlook in Canyonlands National Park. Most people have never hear of Canyonlands. My pre-trip research had revealed enough to let me know I was in for a treat, but nothing prepares you for the stark beauty, solitude, and unique experience that Canyonlands brings. We visited the Island in Sky region of the park and our destination was close to an hour away from our hotel in Moab. However, unlike many places, the entire drive was spectacular. sweeping views of the La Sal Mountains, deep red rock cliffs, and the warm late afternoon sun were all topped off by a distant storm growing closer as we drove.
Departing Moab, travelers pass the mining community of Potash and begin their ascent through winding, scenic road where they pass spectacular views a The Neck before flattening out at Grays Pasture and Willow Flat. We stopped briefly for a photo opportunity at The Neck, where the road passes over a narrow strip of land with dramatic drop-offs on either side.
This sunrise completely convinced me of what I already knew, but was reluctant to accept: the best landscape photography (with some exceptions) occurs at and around sunrise and sunset/
The Neck
Upon arrival at the Green River Overlook, we hurried because our other stops put us slightly behind schedule. At first we thought we missed the sunset, but it was really the approaching storm playing tricks on the light.
Canyonlands Sunset-
Mysteries of Cayonlands
After enjoying distant lightning on the way back to the hotel (too far away to photograph), we went to bed only to rise early and trek back up to Canyonlands, this time Mesa Arch, for the sunrise. Since the sunrise was around 6:15 AM (Mountain Time), we left our hotel at around 4:00 AM to have ample time to arrive without being rushed and to complete the easy half mile hike from the parking lot to the arch. We were the first to arrive at the arch and set up our gear to catch the natural sunburst created when the sun and arch intersect. Shortly after our arrival, we were joined by a number of other photographers, mostly from Europe. They seemed a bit annoyed that we had beat them to the prime spot, although there was not really a bad spot to be found. I used a free piece of software called The Photographer's Ephemeris to help determine where the best spots could be found and timing for sunset and sunrises for our trip and it really paid off. Despite some debate about which spot would be the best to shoot from the other photographers, we remained and awaited the light show. As the sun rose, everything happened exactly as planned. First the sun appeared (despite some clouds) and then it reached the point of creating the sunburst. For several minutes little else could be heard but the snapping of shutters and the occasional quiet murmur of conservation. Then, the warmth of the sun reach the arch and set the under-side of the arch aglow and again, shutters snapped feverishly. within minutes, the event passed and rocks were a different color.
Mesa Arch Aglow
You can see by the photos below how dramatically the changing light affects the color of the rock in the Southwest.In the last image, you can clearly see to the canyon below. Off to the left, are a couple of of prominent rocks. The arch seen to the left is the Washer Woman Arch and to the right of Washer Woman Arch is Monster Tower. The larger frock behind them is Airport Tower.
Mesa Arch - Post Sunrise
