First Light on Cleveland Peak
Our recent excursion through the San Luis Valley and Great Sand Dunes sparked a new black-and-white project!
After a quick overnight in Alamosa, indulging in locally brewed beer and giant slices of NY-style pizza (see the snapshot at the end) at a couple of my favorite spots, we hit the road at daybreak.
Temperatures in the valley are wild and known for their extreme swings, which can drop into single digits in the morning and rise to the 50s or 60s by midday, even in winter. This morning did not disappoint, with the truck clocking a low of 9°.
First Light on Mt Herard
Despite the chill, the skies were clear and our timing perfect. With morning glow spreading across the edges of the valley, we drove up Highway 150 from the southern tip of the Sangres heading straight toward the dunes.
The San Luis Valley is one of the largest high-altitude valleys in the world, sitting at over 7,500 feet above sea level. It’s a fascinating region where geothermal activity (think hot springs), storied history and diverse wildlife converge.
Great Sand Dunes from San Luis Lakes State Wildlife Area
As first light breaks, unparalleled views of the valley and surrounding peaks come into sharp focus. Snow-covered Blanca Peak to the east glows in soft pastels under the brilliant morning sky, while the mighty Crestones, Mt Herard and Cleveland Peak tower over the dunes to the north.
Continuing along, we approach the unmanned ranger station and proceed direclty into the park. One more month I don’t have to renew my annual park pass!
At the base of the dune field, still in the shadows of the Sangres to the east, we wait.
First Light on the Great Sand Dunes and Mt Herard
Photographing the dunes is all about light and shadow. Early morning is ideal when the low-angled light accentuates their curves, creating depth and contrast. For black-and-white photography, this play of light and shadow is even more dramatic, so timing is everything!
Our patience finally pays off as sunlight slowly descends upon the dune field, silhouetting the elegant curves and textures only dunes of such stature can produce.
First Light on the Great Sand Dunes
The surroundings this morning are much different than what one finds during warmer months. Not another car, no sandboarders, not a drop of water in Medano Creek. Just solitude. And a frigid chill in the air I am only somewhat prepared for.
The San Luis Valley and Great Sand Dunes are a true gem of the Rockies. However, they aren’t just about sand. They’re part of a larger ecosystem that includes alpine lakes, wetlands, grasslands and forests.
The Crestones Towering Above the Great Sand Dunes
It’s a trip worth taking if you never have. For me, it’s one I take at least once a year, often more. It simply never gets old. This corner of our planet is a beautiful reminder of how interconnected nature truly is.
Oh yeah – and about that pizza!
NY-Style Pizza at My Brothers Bar, Alamosa
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