Posted by Jack Brauer on August 8, 2008 at 3:24 PM
Hello! I just got back from a 5 day, 60+ mile hike along the Continental Divide Trail through the South San Juans.
Between the LONG days of hiking (13 miles/day) and the nasty stormy weather, the photography wasn't quite as productive as it could have been. I had several sunrises that were so close to being epic, but just didn't quite pan out. Anyhow, I still got some good shots I think.
Nice stuff, Jack! I especially like the Conejos Peak and the second Ominous Cloud shots. I was actually thinking about heading up there for an overnight or 3-day sometime soon. Was there any segment of the hike that especially stood out to you?
Posted by Paul Beiser on August 8, 2008 at 3:45 PM
So so many good ones, Jack, I think the 'Rippled Clouds' are my fav - so unique! Glad you found a DSLR you like.
Welcome home.
Posted by Paul Martin on August 8, 2008 at 3:46 PM
It looks like an awesome trip, you have several really nice images including the one you posted. From what I've seen, it looks like that little Olympus is working out very nicely for these types of forays -- unlike the LF gear would.
Posted by Jack Brauer on August 8, 2008 at 3:49 PM
Hi Jackson,
Although I expected to enjoy the flat plateaus of the southern portion the best, I definitely enjoyed the more mountainous northern part the most.
I can't really recommend any certain spots for an overnighter, due to the fact that access is limited, plus there's no single spot that stands out in my mind as a great destination. In this range it's more about the travel.
For instance, the most remarkable segment for me was the continuous high tundra from the Adams Fork to Elwood Pass, past Summit Peak, Montezuma Peak, and Long Trek Mountain. Incredible broad tundra up there with huge vistas.
Another possible trip would be to do some kind of loop from the Platoro Reservoir, perhaps to Blue Lake, over to the North Fork or Adams Fork.
Posted by Mel Ladewig on August 8, 2008 at 3:53 PM
Lots of fine shots Jack. I like #903 and #911 especially from the group.
I think my wife did this route many years ago and I'm pretty sure its the trip where they got rained on every day for 10 days straight.
Posted by Jesse Speer on August 8, 2008 at 4:36 PM
The rippled cloud shot is amazing!! What an epic hike. Thanks for sharing.
Posted by Todd Caudle on August 8, 2008 at 6:21 PM
Ah geez, that #909/rippled clouds shot is intensely beautiful and unique! Wow! The whole collection is nuts. I also like your ominous cloud shot.
Stellar collection as always, Jack! They're all compelling shots, but the light and colors in 903 is really something else. That storm near Summit Pass looks downright scary.
Discussion
15 repliesBetween the LONG days of hiking (13 miles/day) and the nasty stormy weather, the photography wasn't quite as productive as it could have been. I had several sunrises that were so close to being epic, but just didn't quite pan out. Anyhow, I still got some good shots I think.
Check out my photos from the trip here.
Oh, and no I did not bring the 4x5 (that would be insane). These are all from the Olympus E-420 with 12-60mm lens.
Welcome home.
Although I expected to enjoy the flat plateaus of the southern portion the best, I definitely enjoyed the more mountainous northern part the most.
I can't really recommend any certain spots for an overnighter, due to the fact that access is limited, plus there's no single spot that stands out in my mind as a great destination. In this range it's more about the travel.
For instance, the most remarkable segment for me was the continuous high tundra from the Adams Fork to Elwood Pass, past Summit Peak, Montezuma Peak, and Long Trek Mountain. Incredible broad tundra up there with huge vistas.
Another possible trip would be to do some kind of loop from the Platoro Reservoir, perhaps to Blue Lake, over to the North Fork or Adams Fork.
I think my wife did this route many years ago and I'm pretty sure its the trip where they got rained on every day for 10 days straight.
John
Excellent stuff as usual. Looks like you had an epic 6 days. Thanks for posting these.