Getting into DIA this week around 1pm MT and headed out to Carbondale area. I figure I should be getting there about 1 hour or so before sunset. Any suggestions on nearby locations? I was hoping to try McClure Pass area, but I'm not sure if I would have enough time to make it there in time.
Sunrise of course I'm gonna do at the Bells ;-)
Posted by Scott Bacon on September 17, 2011 at 6:11 PM
The west side of McClure Pass has several pull-outs with nice sunset views of Chair Mountain. And there are some nice valley views from the east side of McClure Pass at the big hairpin before you really start heading up the pass. You could also stay closer to Carbondale and find nice sunset views of Mt. Sopris from the locations along the river. If you'll have a rental vehicle with even a little clearance, there's a great viewpoint from the Capitol Peak trailhead that is spectacular at sunset.
Your timing will be close. Its about 3.5 hours from DIA to Carbondale. McClure pass is another 30 minutes south. You shouldn't have too much traffic in Denver at that time of the day. But allow for time at DIA. It usually takes at least 30 minutes (sometimes a lot longer) to jump the train and pick up your baggage.
Have a great trip!
Posted by Grant Collier on September 17, 2011 at 7:23 PM
McClure Pass probably won't have too much color yet and it is cutting it close, especially if you want any time to scout the locations for a good composition. If you're willing to stop before Carbondale, there's plenty of places along I-70 including Mayflower Gulch and Piney Lake. There's also Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon. I don't know for certain the best time for that. I think it loses the light before sunset, but with the waterfalls it may be better shooting them in the shade. Traffic could be bad if you're arriving Friday.
Discussion
2 repliesSunrise of course I'm gonna do at the Bells ;-)
Your timing will be close. Its about 3.5 hours from DIA to Carbondale. McClure pass is another 30 minutes south. You shouldn't have too much traffic in Denver at that time of the day. But allow for time at DIA. It usually takes at least 30 minutes (sometimes a lot longer) to jump the train and pick up your baggage.
Have a great trip!