Story behind the image:

The Left Fork of North Creek is arguably one of the most spectacular canyons to visit in the backcountry of Zion National Park.  I had always wanted to visit the three main features in this canyon (i.e. Archangel Falls, “The crack” and “The Subway”), however, I knew that this was an extremely strenuous hike to complete and would challenge me beyond any hike I had ever been on. Not to mention, completing the hike with my 8x10 Zone VI Camera, six film holders, accessories and sustenance would make the sojourn even more difficult. Thankfully, my friend Mike agreed to accompany me on the journey of a lifetime. We hit the trail before light, and arrived at our destination by 9:00 am for perfect light and great fall color. I had lost my fleece along the way (recovered later owing to a kind hiker) and was freezing the entire time I was admiring the main features of this hike; I just never could get warm unless we were moving rapidly. I was fortunate to have exposed several sheets of film but wouldn’t know what I had captured for several months later. At the end of the approximate 10-mile hike, my feet were in excruciating pain and all I could think about was getting some rest.  It took me 4 days to fully recover but it was the experience of a life-time and I was fortunate to have come away with images I am proud of.

Other images from this location: