Alpine Gorge

I've been researching a slot canyon high in the La Sals known to a few canyoneers and some locals. It wasn't easy to find but after studying countless topo maps and squeezing information out of anyone in the know, I finally located it. Unfortunately, it only flows during spring and early summer. Additionally, one must negotiate 7 rappels over as many waterfalls to descend it. So, you'll have to wait until next year for photos of the alpine slot canyon painted shades of vibrant green.

At any rate, this photo was made while standing on the rim of that canyon a few hundred yards from the end of the slotty section. The area reminded me of the Mogollon Rim outside Payson, AZ. Sunlight filtered through thin clouds lit the canyon walls and lush forested slopes just hinting at the autumn colors soon to arrive.

Thanks for having a look and leaving a comment.

1Ds MKII, 17-40mm lens, handheld because I was too lazy to retrieve my tripod from the truck

Looks like a beautiful spot, fall is right around the corner..

Can't wait to see shots from the alpine slot canyon next year.

Sounds interesting Bret. I'll look forward to seeing image from the inside.

I'm not sure what is causing it, but the middle ground trees look like they've been flattened and saturated similar to what HDR does.

Mel-

Does remind me of the Rim. Can't wait to see the action shots!

I don't know what direction you're facing here Bret, but with some strong sidelight, this would be a really great shot. I really like this comp.

This is an absolutely beautifully composed photo, Bret, and the light is subtle and magical. I look forward to your slot shots next year.

Thanks for the comments, folks.

Mel: I'm not sure what you're seeing but the trees look normal to me. I didn't do any HDR or even any shadow recovery as the light was very even given that it was filtered through thin clouds. It's a mystery!

Looks great, interesting to see the trees below you here.

Nice image and looking forward to future results from next year's journey.

Nice work here, Bret. I like the perspective - the upward thrusting rocks and top-down perspective definitely give the viewer the feel of standing on the edge. Without that careful arrangement, it could become a rather ordinary shot. Looking forward to seeing more from here.

I do like your composition, and would like to see a large version of this. Anxious to see your images from this area next year.

Can't wait to see more after this teaser. This image makes the place seem very remote, and it's a very dramatic perspective.