Photo : Salinas Pueblos Missions National Monument

Abo Ruins, Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument - New Mexico

Photo : White Sands National Monument

White Sands National Monument - New Mexico

Photo : Fajada Butte

I've arrived home from New Mexico and my film is at the lab getting developed. Hopefully I'll have some new shots to share next week. For now, here's a shot from another part of New Mexico from a previous trip.

Fajada Butte, Chaco Culture National Historic Park - New Mexico

Photo : Coronado's Ship

This weekend I'm leaving for a trip out to southern California to relax and see friends. Of course, I'll have my cameras with me too. This trip I'll be hitting Las Vegas to see the City Center development, Death Valley National Park for a couple of days, and of course a stint or two at Disneyland. It will be a welcome respite from the grey skies of central New York.

Entrance Sign - Coronado National Monument, California

Photo : Mormon Row Barn

Mormon Row Barn - Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Best of 2009 Travel: Part 8 of 10 - Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Situated along the border between Mexico and the United States is a little piece of desert beauty. In addition to the parks namesake cacti, numerous species of desert flora and fauna flourish. The easiest access to the park is by a loop road that offers a good overview of the terrain. An additional loop road and a few other tracks through the park have been closed due to dangers related to illegal immigration. (The park visitor’s center is named after a murdered park ranger.) Despite the limitations set by these woes, the desert scenery is sublime, particularly in the golden hours of the late afternoon.

Best of 2009 Travel: Part 6 of 10 - Canyonlands National Park and Capitol Reef National Park

Six Shooter Peak near the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park - Utah

Both of these national parks in eastern Utah often play second fiddle to other national parks in the area like Bryce Canyon and Arches. While Bryce and Arches are certainly gems, if you’re looking to find some solitude among the beautiful canyon country scenery Capitol Reef and Canyonlands are worth a look.

Capitol Reef’s long, narrow shape follows the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic wonder that gives rise to red rock monoliths and water-worn canyons. Aside from the natural scenery, Mormon settlements along the Fremont River are also preserved including large swaths of orchards where you can still pick fruit for a small fee.

Canyonlands is divided into three districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles and The Maze. Island in the Sky, with its expansive panoramic views, is the most popular due to its proximity to Arches. The Maze and its petroglyphs are difficult to access. The best bet for amazing scenery, ease of access and sparse crowds is The Needles. Networks of trails cover the area where the needles themselves (large windswept stone formations) are located and numerous backcountry campsites are available. The scenic drive into this part of the park from US191 is part of the appeal too.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Saguaro National Park, Arizona

Happy Thanksgiving to one and all. Thought I've spent the past six Thanksgiving holidays away from my family I have had the good fortune to find myself in a variety of wonderful places. From the beaches of Orange County, California to the austere landscape of west Texas to the deserts of southern Arizona - each year I've had so much to be thankful for. This year is no different as I find myself among friends in New York City. Here's to a wonderful holiday, and to many more in far flung places!

New Beginnings

Joshua Tree National Park - California

And I'm off...