Pikes Peak's backside

Here's a shot from this morning near Victor. This was really a tough shoot. All the elements are there to make a really cool photo, but the light was abysmal. I've struggled with this all morning and well into the afternoon to get it looking halfway decent, but I'm just not getting it there. Here's my take so far, and I'm open to ideas.

Looks like your processing so far is pretty good, I'm not sure I can give you any more ideas. I really like the 4 distinct layers, and the pastel soft tones in the sky. Since the 3 main layers are mainly all monotone, how do you think this would work as a B&W conversion?.

Thanks Nick. I tried several variations of b&w, and never came up with one I liked. I probably need to do it separately for the sky.

I'm with Nick...I sure like what you have, but am stumped as how you can optimize it any further.
Perhaps b&w with a platinum tone?

Just tried a local contrast enhancement (USM-Amount 20, Radius 50, Threshold 0) and it seemed to make it pop a bit more.

I am no help on this Todd. I do like John and nick's idea though

Yeah, you don't want any help from me. It might look very strange indeed when I get through with it.

Todd, I do not see how you can improve the image much more than you have. The balance, lines and rhythmic movement make for a nicely composed image.

Bill Brennan

Well, if you spent all morning working on this one, you certainly can't tell - and that is success to me! When I tweak an image for too long it always takes on odd color casts, halos, etc. This looks very natural in terms of your processing and is a very cool, unique image!

You might try playing around with Selective Colors, bumping the Magenta within Whites and Neutrals.

I took the Magenta up to 58 in Whites and 14 in Neutrals. You might be pleased.

Really like the layering effect. Have you tried darkening the sky and the low clouds? This might make the layering more pronounced.

I would invert the colors, then Photoshop in a bikini model.
looks fine to me.

Todd, I like it as it is - certainly makes you want to put that fleece on! Also like the pastel shades in the sky mentioned by Nick. Cliff

I, too, like it the way it is. I like the hint of pink hues in the sky.