Posted by Kevin Williams on February 4, 2007 at 11:23 PM
I am have been to the Rocky Mountain National Park several times in the Spring and Summer. I have a business trip coming up that will take me to Fort Collins, CO in a couple of weeks. I am thinking about coming up a couple of days early and going to RMNP for some photography. Can anyone give me some suggestions of where to go and stay at this time of year? I do not have a lot of snow photograpy experience. Any input will be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance for your help.
Posted by Todd Caudle on February 5, 2007 at 1:00 AM
If you stay in Loveland just south of Fort Collins, accomodations will be cheaper and you could be in Estes Park in about 30-35 minutes via Big Thompson Canyon. Then just head up into the park either as far as Trail Ridge Road will take you (Many Parks Curve) or up Bear Lake Road. Great sunrise potential with either.
Posted by Les Barstow on February 5, 2007 at 2:14 AM
As a guideline, snow in morning sunlight is about 1.5 to 2 stops above neutral; snow in bright light or in overcast conditions is 2+ stops (if you can't see detail, it's really white - 2.5 stops...) If you plan your shots, a polarizer can cut down on the harshness a bit.
In addition to the above suggestions, if you're interested in some hiking, the Wild Basin area can be an exellent Winter opportunity; the St. Vrain River is usually flowing well enough that it's not completely frozen over, though I haven't been out there this year with all the cold we've been having... The Alluvial Fan area can also be nice for ice flows and icicles, and it's something you can do during the day after you're done with your sunrise.
Posted by Paul Wegemann on February 5, 2007 at 7:16 AM
Kevin,
Depending on how much time you have, and what physical shape you're in, you should consider hiking up to Dream Lake. Dream lake is a classic sunrise shot and it's 1 mile up the trail from Bear Lake. It would be worth it to rent snowshoes and maybe even consider some tripod snowshoes. It does get very windy up there, but I have rarely been unimpressed with the sunrises I've seen from there. There are also some impressive views of Long's and Meeker from Rt 7 just a few miles south of Lily Lake. No hiking involved - just pull over. Speaking of Lily Lake - about a third of a mile hike west of the lake will give you some spectacular views of the Mummy's. I could probably type all day. Shoot me an email if you're interested in talking more.
Paul
Posted by Jesse Speer on February 5, 2007 at 9:28 AM
I agree with the Trail Ridge Rd (mostly telephoto) and Dream Lake (mostly wide angle) suggestions, two of my favorite winter destinations. Also check out the Lake Shore Lodge. Their winter rate for a basic room is less than $40.
Posted by Kevin Williams on February 5, 2007 at 10:48 PM
Thanks to everyone for your input. I am trying to work a deal with my company to let me travel up the Friday before I "have" to be there on Monday.
Posted by Les Barstow on February 6, 2007 at 3:00 AM
The cheaper plane ticket often makes up for the extra days in a hotel. I was able to get that bargain a couple of times from my previous employer - got a weekend in Tampa, another two the SF area...
Posted by John De Bord on February 6, 2007 at 8:23 PM
You may wish to stay here, I simply love this place---The YMCA Of The Rockies http://www.ymcarockies.org/ It is a GREAT place with Cabins, lodges, etc...heck you can shoot right off the visitors center deck looking at the peaks in RMNP after grabbing a hot cup of Java from inside. For relaxation after a long day of shooting there is a pool and spa. It is a heck of a place and is CHEAP! Very rustic and very welcoming. I have always thought that this would be an ideal place to get a shindig together and stay at.
Discussion
7 repliesIn addition to the above suggestions, if you're interested in some hiking, the Wild Basin area can be an exellent Winter opportunity; the St. Vrain River is usually flowing well enough that it's not completely frozen over, though I haven't been out there this year with all the cold we've been having... The Alluvial Fan area can also be nice for ice flows and icicles, and it's something you can do during the day after you're done with your sunrise.
Depending on how much time you have, and what physical shape you're in, you should consider hiking up to Dream Lake. Dream lake is a classic sunrise shot and it's 1 mile up the trail from Bear Lake. It would be worth it to rent snowshoes and maybe even consider some tripod snowshoes. It does get very windy up there, but I have rarely been unimpressed with the sunrises I've seen from there. There are also some impressive views of Long's and Meeker from Rt 7 just a few miles south of Lily Lake. No hiking involved - just pull over. Speaking of Lily Lake - about a third of a mile hike west of the lake will give you some spectacular views of the Mummy's. I could probably type all day. Shoot me an email if you're interested in talking more.
Paul