Oak creek autumn

Went up to the west fork of oak creek canyon yesterday with Bob Miller and Chikku Baiju to get our fix of autumn colors. For those not familiar with the west fork trail, it is very similar to parts of Zion National Park. This trail has it's version of the subway and narrows and the fall colors to really bring this slice of heaven to life. For those who cannot make it to Zion I find this trail an EXCELLENT alternative and one that is different every time I have gone. Here are just a few of the images I shot during this outing.

#1 This is the long pool area that is about a 3/4 of a mile after the end of the official trail. Colors here were a bit dull, but will probably be peak in a few days.

#2 Swirling leaves beneath the red cliffs. Chikku was kind enough to let me borrow his ND filter to do some long exposures of the streaking leaves.

#3 This is facing the exact opposite direction as the leaves began to spin around from the wind.

#4 More swirling leaves

#5 And more swirling leaves

#6 Some colorful trees against the red rock cliffs

#7 Fallen leaves carpet the trail in a few sections, this being one of the most dense and colorful.

#8 A giant wall arch framed by the bright yellow leaves

#9 And of course, an abstract for good measure. I really liked the ghostly feel of this one.

#3 & 8 garner my preference. You framed the arch rather well. Looks like next weekend may be prime.

I tried to get that rockfall/arch in to a shot on Friday and just couldn't manage it. Very nicely done. I tried to wander up past the "end" as well, but the water was just way too cold for bare feet - mine, at least. Great series.

Thanks Doug, I have another version of #3 where the leaves aren't so swirly as they are streaky that I may prefer a bit. Like I said earlier this entire week should be good and just build up to an amazing display by the weekend.

Thanks Kurt, there is one spot just off the trail where the trees open up here to view the arch, but you have to pay attention to the arch.

Number 8 is tops for me. A nice collection of work. I'm hoping to get down there by the end of the week.

Thanks Adam, I may return up there either Friday or Sunday when the colors should be at peak.

Top notch.
I espeically like all the swirling leaves.

Love the swirling leaves!

So do I! This entire series is a joy to behold, Peter. I have no clear favorite...I like 'em all!
I especially like how unique your abstract shot is, too. Excellent work!

Honestly, these are some of the very best photos I've seen from Oak Creek - ever. Just gorgeous. I've always wanted to get down there to photograph autumn and after seeing these images, I'll be there next year. Period. Thanks for the inspiration!

Thank you guys and that is some high praise Bret, and I have seen some incredible images from here. I'm sure there are still tons of amazing photos to be had that I pass every time I'm up there. Perhaps next year we can get a nice group together and shoot the colors.

Fantastic work Peter. The swirls are very cool. I like the first shot too- the narrow slot and reflections lead the way very nicely into the trees on the far shore. It was a pleasure hanging out and shooting with both you and Chikku.

You did this place justice, Peter. This whole series is really wonderful. I love the swirling leaf shots. There is a soft glow to the background of #1 that I also find very appealing.

Superb images, Peter, love the swirling and streaking leaves effect.

A nice series! they're all so wonderful, I can't pick a favorite.

Great series, Peter. The swirls are really cool, I love the carpet of leaves in # 7, and the abstract is top notch! Good stuff!

Thank you all for the kind words!

Wow ! really like the swirling leaves set a lot !!

Great series Peter! You got a lot of nice shots. Love all your swirling leaves shots. My fav of them would be #4. The pattern the leaves compliments well with the scene. #1 is also very nice. You manged to get the best from the crappy light we got. A very productive trip.