PERFECTION BELLS
The Maroon Bells, reflecting in Maroon Lake, is said to be the most photographed landscape in Colorado, and I'm sure its near top top of the list in the country, if not the world. When arriving at sunrise on this particular fall day, with a tapestry of aspen colors and fresh snow on the peaks, I'd estimate that there were more than 300 photographers lined up on the shore of the lake. Quite a spectacle, especially to visitors looking to hike the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail, who continually make jokes about skipping rocks in the perfectly reflective lake. So why would you want to line up, shoulder to shoulder, and take the same photo as 300 other people? Thats what I asked myself before I went there. But, after securing a spot for myself on the shore, as the sun rose over the peaks spilling light into the valley, it was obvious. This scene is one of the most perfect, absolutely stunning landscapes I've photographed. The frosted peaks, golden aspens, crystal clear lake, and u-shaped glacially carved valley, make it worth the nuisances. I think shooting the bells should be on every nature photographers short list.
The Maroon Bells, Aspen, Colorado
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