This image comes from Canyonlands National Park and was taken in 2014. The early morning light at sunrise reflects off the red rock to create the glow under Mesa Arch. There’s not much room for photographing the arch, which sits atop a cliff. When I was there in 2014, during the off season, everyone was polite and worked around each other. But since it’s a popular destination for photographers and there’s so little room to “work”, I’ve heard it can be akin to “combat” photography in today’s environment and have even heard of fights breaking out. I’m glad to have photographed this iconic location when I did because I don’t think I could deal with that type of aggressive environment today.

Capitol Reef National Park might not get the attention of some of the other parks in southern Utah, but the scenery is no less beautiful. This image was taken down at sunset back in 2014 when I made a long trip through several national parks and monuments in southern Utah.

This scene can be found on a permit-only hike in Utah’s Zion National Park away from the crowded canyon. The trail follows the stream, some times in it to several beautiful spots such as this one. Fall leaves only add to the beauty. More images of Utah’s parks can be viewed here: Utah Gallery.