Don't Go Chasing...Oh, Wait, That's Exactly What I Did

After months off the road, I'm thrilled to share that I’ve been back out exploring, camera in hand, since the second week of August. There's nothing quite like the feeling of embarking on a new adventure, and I’ve been capturing the wonders of the West one stunning landscape at a time.

First Stop: Succor Creek Natural Area, Idaho

My journey began at Succor Creek Natural Area in Idaho. Even though I only spent a few days here, the canyons left a lasting impression on me. This was my first visit, and I came with only a vague idea of what to expect from online searches. But nothing prepared me for the sheer beauty of these rugged landscapes. Standing at the bottom and looking up, I felt a deep connection to the ancient forces that shaped them. Sure, you can see photos online, but experiencing it in person, with the wind in your hair and the sun casting shadows on the canyon walls, is something else entirely.

My first night was spent at a charming Airbnb where my gracious host shared some of her favorite local spots. I quickly found myself at Jump Creek Falls, just a short drive away. The hike was an absolute delight. With my cell phone on hand, I captured a few shots. The shots from my camera will have to wait until I get home. Something about the stones leading up to the falls and the dark cliffs flanking the water immediately made me think of black-and-white photography. I think these photos will turn out stunning in monochrome, highlighting the textures and contrasts of the scene.

Waterfalls Galore

Before I set out, I titled my itinerary, "Waterfalls, More Waterfalls, and By the Way, Did I Mention A LOT of WATERFALLS?" I wasn't kidding. I had planned to spend more time exploring the canyons, but the weather had other ideas. So, I switched gears and headed to Thousand Springs State Park. Minnie Miller Springs caught my eye, especially since it’s one of the largest remaining spring complexes in the area. As someone who’s lived in a high desert for the past 30 years, seeing water pour out of the rocks was a magical experience.

(Click on images to view in their entirety.)

Next Up: Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

From there, I made my way to Silver Falls State Park near Silverton, Oregon. If you’re a fan of waterfalls and hiking, this place is pure nirvana. The Trail of Ten Falls is a 7.2-mile hike with an elevation change of about 800 feet, and it’s absolutely worth every step. I’ll have many, many images to share from this trek, but two waterfalls stood out to me: South Falls and North Falls. Four of the ten waterfalls on this trail allow you to walk behind them, which is an experience all its own. While it may not be the most picturesque vantage point, it’s certainly an unforgettable one.

A Return to Proxy Falls

After recovering from the hike, I continued on to Proxy Falls. This wasn’t my first visit, but I was eager to return. The falls are breathtaking, and the images from my last trip were lost to a corrupted drive. The first time I visited, I bushwhacked my way through without a clear path. This time, I was surprised to find marked pullouts, a fee parking area, and a well-maintained trail. The 1.8-mile round trip was mostly easy, but the trail becomes more challenging near the falls. I recommend good waterproof hiking boots—you’ll need them. But the effort is worth it; Proxy Falls is a sight to behold.

Currently Writing From: Port Angeles, Washington

Today, I’m in Port Angeles, Washington, a place I visited three years ago and just had to return to. "Had" might not be the right word. "Needed" is more accurate. I absolutely love this area. And no, I don't mind the rain and overcast skies. I actually think I thrive on them. The main reason for coming back was to visit a waterfall (surprise, surprise) that I missed last time: Sol Duc Falls. I’ve been dreaming of photographing this waterfall for the past five years. Missing it on my last trip was disappointing, but looking back, I’m glad it worked out this way. I’m a better photographer now, and I was able to capture this special place in a way I couldn’t have before. Even with just my cell phone, I managed to snap a few shots that took my breath away. If you’re ever in the area, get there early—Sol Duc Falls is a popular spot.

There have been more waterfall adventures on this trip, and I can’t wait to share all the images with you when I get back home. Tomorrow is a travel day, and after that, I’ll be exploring rainforests and beaches. I CAN’T WAIT!

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Have you been to any of these spots? I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your photos. Let's keep the adventure going!