Posts by David Swindler
Alstrom Point
When the clouds and light work together, it can be pure magic out at Alstrom Point – a remote overlook high over Lake Powell. I’ve had great luck every time I’ve been out there. Even when skies have been clear everywhere else, clouds like to congregate around here! Even though I have many great images…
Read MoreSouth Coyote Buttes
South Coyote Buttes is a fascinating area to photograph. The shot above is a feature often called the Witch’s Hat. I climbed up a little butte to find some nice foreground fins. South Coyote Buttes is often overlooked since it lacks many of the “iconic” spots like The Wave in North Coyote Buttes. However, if…
Read MoreWhite Pocket
White Pocket is one of my favorite places in the desert southwest. Photographic possibilities are endless and great shots can be obtained in virtually all weather conditions. It’s famous for its large expanses of white brainrock, colorful swirls, and intricate cross-bedding. Many theories abound on how White Pocket was formed, but nobody really knows for…
Read MorePhotographing Bears
Out of all wildlife, I enjoy photographing bears the most. They are majestic and powerful animals that demand respect. The patient observer can be rewarded with a glimpse into their complex social network. They can exhibit so many human-like antics, attitudes, and behaviors. It’s fascinating to see them playing with each other, fighting, catching food,…
Read MoreThe Subway in Autumn
The Subway in Zion National Park ranks as one of the best hikes in the world. If you have the skill, the right gear, and the physical ability, descending the Subway from the top is highly recommended. Swimming is often required on this route and the water is cold so you’ll want a wetsuit. However, you…
Read MoreBighorn Sheep Rut
Late November into December is my favorite time to see the bighorn sheep rut. This is the period in which they mate. The sheep are much more tolerant of human presence since they are primarily concerned about each other. This is when you can observe many interesting behaviors and take some great photographs. The males…
Read MoreMystery Canyon
Mystery Canyon in Zion National Park is a really fun adventure. It features a nice selection of both short and long rappels and isn’t very technical. The scenery is constantly changing as you work your way down. If you go during the fall season (early Nov), then you’ll be treated to eye-catching foliage color. Watch…
Read MoreDall Sheep Rut in Kluane
Sheep Mountain and Kluane Lake in Yukon Territory are spectacular photo destinations regardless of the time of year you visit. I arrived in November to capture the dall sheep rut. I was so impressed with this area that I added it to the Haines Alaska Photo Tour this November. The shot above shows a frozen…
Read MoreBald Eagles Fishing
Each winter, hundreds of bald eagles congregate along the Mississippi River. Numbers often peak around mid-January. Of course, this all depends on how cold the temperatures are. When it’s warm, the eagles spread out all along the river corridor and are much harder to spot. As it gets colder, the river freezes except near the…
Read MoreWilcox Pass
Wilcox Pass is a popular hiking route in the Canadian Rockies. The trailhead is located just south of Columbia Icefields Discovery Center in Jasper National Park. It’s a 6.5 mile round trip hike with 1000 ft of vertical gain. The effort to climb up is amply rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and…
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