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Derek TiceExplorer

Adventurer || Designer || Snowboarder

A grand place for climbing, chasing waterfalls, and simply enjoying the outdoors. If you have the chance to see the falls in the spring during high water, it is well worth it. The water flows over the top and not just through the caverns. Several lookout points make the area very accessible.

Did this on dirt bikes in mid October. Due to the late season traffic the road/trail was very muddy and rutted which is easily avoidable on foot. Rat lake is a great spot to stop after the hike/ride and take in the views as well. If you're the type that doesn't like motorized vehicle traffic I would consider a different hike, since we came across a few groups of riders on our excursion.

I'm not one for graffiti, but here it compliments the area in an interesting way. Being surrounded by the tall graffitied landmarks made me want to film a rap video and drink 40's. I wasn't able to make it there at sunset but guarantee that's the time to hit it. Based on the amount of garbage I found around the area, it's safe to say it's a common camp/party location. However, that didn't ruin the experience, I was half expecting something similar based on the nature of the area.

The terrain is nothing like I've explored before. It reminds me of a large scale asphalt lot, with its cracks and crevices. It's a very unique place and worth the experience. There is a lot of gravel roads in this area that would be fun to explore on a bike or dirt bike if time allowed. I have to imagine there a plenty of hidden caves and crevices in the area. There also seemed to be several "wheelin" roads if your vehicle is equipped.

Its a very short hike to the top that provides great views over the Great Salt Lake. I was there right around noon, but could imagine it would be a great spot to watch the sunrise and sunset with reflections on the lake.

This was the highlight of our recent trip through Utah and Arizona and not just because of the clean showers/bathrooms. It's named The View for a reason. It's a few miles south of Forrest Gump Point, which is where we chose to watch the sunset, followed by a brilliant sunrise at the camp spot.

Will definitely camp here again. It was $14 to camp overnight when we stayed. We pulled in when it was dark and didn't want to risk getting stuck in the sand in our 2wd van. So we camped a bit off the shore. Once morning hit, we were able to see where the deep sand spots were and maneuvered around them to get closer to the shore to enjoy our morning.

If your on Highway 89, this is a nice short breather from driving. Getting up to the caves is easier the farther left you go (as you're approaching the caves). The few windows into the cave capture the evening sun very well and provide an overlook of the highway.

Have been around this area a handful of times, and have never made it to the actual hot springs until recently. Not a far hike and very easy/flat. The water was not very hot would consider it more of a "warm" spring. It is warm enough to soak for an extended period of time, however.

Not complaining at all, this place is amazing. But all the photos and media I've seen of this location I guess my expectations were set a little high. Glad I was finally able to visit the area, however don't imagine going out of my way to revisit (social media seems to keep me up to date on the area). The light play on the mountains in the morning is worth waking up for.

Just did this drive in early November for sunrise. Beautiful drive with a different perspective of the Tetons than the more popular Wyoming side. With little to no traffic early in the morning (during off season) we were able to skate the hill without any issues, so bring your skateboards if skating is up your alley.

Explorer

11/03/16

The least crowded trail we encountered on our Utah trip. We had the Double O arch all to ourselves around 9 am The trail does get a little fuzzy so be weary of where you are going.

Explorer

11/03/16

A short walk to the viewing platform surrounds you with thousands of other people ready to view the geyser. Every park ranger as well as signs within the information centers have a prediction of the next rupture (it's usually very close to this time). If you want a good view without heads in your way I would get there a bit early to get the front row.

It's the major loop through the park with lots of scenic stops along the way. Yellowstone is relatively flat so there are stretches of the road which are surrounded by trees with little visibility. 4-7 hour drive depending how often you stop.

I was astonished at the amount of monumental peaks jutting out of the ground. Really want to get back here to shoot some night shots.

Explorer

11/02/16

It is crowded, but for a good reason. Forgot what settings I used to shoot, but be ready to adjust due to lack of light and a tripod (which most tours don't allow).

Explorer

11/02/16

Seeing photos of this iconic location everywhere, I thought I had a pretty good idea of what to expect. However, this place is way more grand than any photo can express. I was astounded at how many people were at this location, yet it gave an interesting perspective and sense of scale.

I was astonished at the amount of waterfalls along the route. Well worth it if you don't even plan to summit. We camped at the lake and hiked the summit early in the morning when it was clear. The 2 miles to the summit is a very strenuous hike, very steep. By the time we got to the top we were socked in with clouds and unable to enjoy the views. Just means were going to have to give it another go. The weather changes quickly so be prepared.

I recently did a quick trip through the Sawtooths and am now determined to get back and spend more time photographing and hiking the area.

Amazing! The day we hiked it, the west side of Lake Josephine was closed due to bear activity. We decided to hike it taking the east trail. At the switchbacks that start your climb above lake Josephine we came across about 15 people walking back down the trail telling us they were being followed by a bear. We turned and hiked back down several yards and got several views of what later was recognized as a blonde haired black bear by a park ranger. He continued straight at one of the bends and we were able to complete the hike without any other encounters.

A short hike but with very rewarding views. I set my camera up on a cliff edge to capture a time-lapse of the setting sun. As I watched the day turn into night, two juvenile mountain goats would continually come check on what was going on.

With the large cedars over head and the bright blue water of Avalanche Creek rushing over falls, this is an easy hike that shouldn't be missed.

A feature of Yellowstone that is probably not on your must-see list, but is a great hike to break up the drive along Grand Loop Road.

Explorer

07/27/16

I did it to get it off my bucketlist. Its well worth it for the experience, however, i am not one for crowds. It was more like visiting a shopping mall than taking a hike. Yet, the people watching is quite hilarious.