I have just returned from Wyoming, where I captured some great photos while visiting a private ranch. While known for the spectacular national parks at Yelllowstone and the Tetons, there is great beauty in other parts of the state as well. The ranch I visited was located in the Laramie Mountains, the northern extension of the Rocky Mountain Front range located in southeastern Wyoming. The area is filled with rugged geology, canyons and rivers, and scenic views.
We had good sunsets on three of the four nights that I was at the ranch, with late afternoon thunderstorms (but little rain) blowing through with clouds lingering for the evening color. The photo above shows Bluegrass Creek, with strong currents from the spring runoff at higher elevations on the Continental Divide further west in Wyoming. This photo captures the sun just before it drops below the horizon in the distance, with the Laramie River in the foreground. The small lake is formed from a water impoundment project along the river, part of what is the largest private water district in the country with water rights that date to the 1870s.
Spectacular clouds were lit by the setting sun in this photo looking to the north from a viewpoint offerring spectacular views across the Laramie Peaks Wildlife Management Area. We observed deer, elk, pronghorn, and many varieties of birds on our trip as well (though my photo captures of these were a bit limited).
My photography has to date been primarily focussed on Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah, so it was great to expand my portfolio into another state. And for those driving up I25 on the way to more crowded parks, I recommend spending some time exploring this beautiful area. There are state parks and public lands that provide good access.
Thanks!
Scott