Tombstone Rocks

Drive west 11 miles on US 34 to either the Hidden Valley area, or Many Parks Curve parking area. Hike up the steep terrain to Tombstone Ridge. In the summer you can drive another 5 miles to the Ute Crossing Trailhead, and hike the easy trail.

This is not a typical winter destination, but was required to get this shot.

This was my second day in a row trying to make it to the top of Tombstone Ridge before sunrise. The day before I was stymied by feet and feet of fresh powder. On this day, I began hiking at 2:45 am. Arriving at the top at 6:00, I had roughly a half hour to find a suitable spot for my tripod that was at least somewhat protected from the wind, had an interesting foreground, and still had a view of the surrounding mountains. Easier said than done in the dark, fierce winds, and rocks straight out of Mordor. All of my effort was rewarded with tremendous light and fantastic swirling snow.