Mill Creek Pinnacles

Submitted by Scott on October 10th, 2011

co-06772-blogMill Creek Pinnacles Predawn I

The Mill Creek pinnacles burst from a mix of green, yellow and orange fall colored aspens in the West Elk Wilderness in Colorado. These impressive features tower hundreds of feet above the peaceful valley floor, with a ruddy color in stark contrast to the surrounding foliage.

co-06776-blogMill Creek Pinnacles Predawn II

The spires vary in size and shape and (best of all) change dramatically in appearance from different angles. So as you hike up the valley and steal glimpses from the quiet meadows and small openings in the trees, each pinnacle can show a different profile as your viewing perspective changes. And as the autumn sun rises, the pinnacles alight, as if they were giant candles made of stone.

co-06794-blogAutumn’s First Light on the Mill Creek Pinnacles

As the sun fills the valley it side-lights the gorgeous aspens, as well as the willows and other fall foliage. The cold morning air is crisp with the smell of fall and the slightest breeze will send down a shower of yellow fluttering leaves. Ahhh, October in Colorado…

co-06796-blogSunrise on the Mill Creek Pinnacles

It’s no wonder, fall is my favorite season.  :-)

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Posted in New Images | 9 Comments »


9 Comments to “Mill Creek Pinnacles”

  1. Bret Edge says:
    October 10, 2011 at 3:19 pm

    I’ve never even heard of this place but now it’s on my radar as a “must visit” spot. Awesome photos, Scott! It’s nice to see something other than the typical locations.

  2. Jackson Frishman says:
    October 10, 2011 at 6:50 pm

    Great images, Scott! I’ve only visited Mill Creek very briefly, spent the night at the trailhead while passing through and got in a short hike in the morning. But it’s an amazing place, and I’ve long been surprised it’s not more prominent on the fall color map. The west Elk Wilderness in general is underphotographed, I’d say; no one ever seems to make it too far from Kebler.

  3. Scott says:
    October 10, 2011 at 6:56 pm

    Thanks, guys! Agreed, this is one very cool place. Of course, you actually have to get out of your car, sling your gear on your back and hike to these locations (some further than others). But for me (and you two), that makes it even more enjoyable… :-)

  4. Bill Bean says:
    October 10, 2011 at 8:50 pm

    Scott, these are stunning. Echo what Bret said. I need to see this place in person. Great set!

  5. Rachel Cohen says:
    October 11, 2011 at 1:12 pm

    These are really awesome images Scott! I would love to be there. Such great captures!

  6. Allison Howard says:
    October 19, 2011 at 2:35 pm

    These are awesome! I so enjoy looking at your work and knowing we knew each other onece upon a time makes it even better.

  7. Scott says:
    October 19, 2011 at 5:33 pm

    Again, thanks for the kind comments. Bill and Rachel, just let me know if you want directions. ;-) Allison, so very nice to hear from you! Glad you enjoy my work. :-)

  8. Jody Grigg says:
    November 10, 2011 at 7:28 pm

    How did your close-up ground shots come out?

  9. Scott says:
    November 10, 2011 at 7:30 pm

    I got some that came out OK. I’ll see if I can’t get some posted… :-)

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