It is the morning of our fifth day in the backcountry. By this time we have hiked over 20 miles, not counting bushwhacks, side trips, getting (slightly) lost and such. My buddy Mark says, "I'm surprised that Gary isn't heading for the falls to see about some morning magic." I thought the sky was too overcast, but a quick glance tells me that maybe, just maybe, something special is about to happen. I race for the tent and grab my gear.
The trail to the Colonnade Falls overlook is not exactly one that I am willing to run along. It is full of jagged rocks, muddy, slippery areas and such. But when the trail allows it, I run. I jog. I do whatever I have to do to get down to that overlook.
Set things down. Don't kick the camera over the edge. Find the GND filter. Get that stupid ring to screw onto the front of the camera the first time. Find the level. Check the ISO. Splay the legs on the tripod. Get down low. Try f/16. Try f/22. Find the sweet spot.
{click} {click} {click}
Chimp my shots. Watch the sunrise fade.
Smile the smile of success.
Return up the trail.
Permit for backcountry trip: $20.
Gas to get to Yellowstone: $80.
Room at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge before the trip: $160.
Sunrise over Colonnade Falls: Priceless.
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