The Power of Water

It’s only been since 1999 that the breathtaking and dramatic landscape of Black Canyon of the Gunnison has officially held national park status, yet the incredible carving of the canyon by the mighty Gunnison River began millions of years ago, long before that designation. The Black Canyon is uniquely named because the walls are frequently shrouded in shadows, giving them the appearance of being black, and it features some of the oldest exposed rock you'll find anywhere in the world — Precambrian, or “basement” rock, that is nearly 2 billion years old. This remarkable park is big enough to be overwhelming, yet still intimate enough for you to feel the pulse of time echoing through its depths; Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park allows you to witness some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock formations, and craggiest spires in all of North America. With two million years of relentless work, the Gunnison River, along with the natural forces of weathering, has sculpted this extraordinary vertical wilderness of rock, water, and sky. This park is undoubtedly another site where you truly have to see it to believe it. The steepness of the cliffs is incredibly impressive, and the vivid colors and fascinating shapes of the rock faces will undoubtedly leave you in awe and wonder. When I arrived at the park, I had a specific vision in mind for the sunset picture I wanted to capture. I hoped for the sunlight to beautifully illuminate the sky and the expansive canyon, showcasing the powerful Gunnison River that runs through the bottom of this steep canyon. After all, it is the river that caused this magnificent geological wonder, and it should certainly be a focal point of the shot. I was fortunate, as the light turned out to be wonderfully enchanting. I was able to capture the stunning detail and steepness of the canyon walls, along with the shimmering river winding its way through this magnificent landscape.

Location: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado