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Jason HatfieldExplorer

Adventure and travel photographer based out of Denver, Colorado. I teach photography workshops and offer private guiding around the west. More at jasonjhatfield.com

One of the most stunning views along the Ice Fields parkway.

Easily one of the most incredible backpacking trips of my life. If you're going in September like I did be careful of early snow storms, I had over a foot of snow in 1 day that made the 18-mile hike out a long day. I also wouldn't advise going solo like I did either, I encountered 3 adult grizzlies at once on the trail near Citadel Pass. It was a bad food year and they were not happy to see me. I was false charged but luckily didn't have to use my bear spray. Signs at Mt. Shark TH recommend groups of 4 or more.

An Oregon icon, this place is stunning under great light. If you don't have good color at sunrise or sunset though, the rocks can look a little flat.

This area was much smaller than I expected, but it's still a beautiful spot. Due to its limited size, there are not a lot of options for original compositions but it's definitely still worth photographing; a long lens usually rewards the best compositions.

This is the place for iconic views of the Palouse area. Spring is the best time to capture the green and purple hues, but the golden hills of late summer can be equally as captivating. A long lens is a definite must!

A simply stunning waterfall at sunrise or sunset, you get an immense sense of scale standing on the 400 ft. cliffs. Be careful if photographing the falls from the cliffs as they're unstable and prone to erosion.

Exploring the San Juans is a little broad but Yankee Boy Basin is one of the best places in the range. For added adventure climb nearby 14er, Mount Sneffels.

While the drive here can be a little difficult and require high clearance 4WD, it's a relatively easy hike for a 14er. The wildflowers in the basin are insane and especially concentrated around the creek. The TH and camping area is above treeline so storm protection is more limited.

You won't get the solitude of some other hot springs but the cost is reasonable and it's a perfect way to end a day of exploring. Get the 3 punch pass if you know you'll be back. The biggest downside to this place is they aren't open late so summer star gazing in the pool isn't really an option.

One of the best hikes in the Kebler Pass area. Short but sweet, the views from near Dollar Lake are incredible. Dollar Lake also makes a great backpacking spot.

This place is huge and incredibly fun. Don't miss Mouse's in town for coffee or chocolate when you're done!

This loop can get busy on weekends but it's a great run for spending a lot of time above 14000ft.

Incredible views and a very challenging run, best way to knock out all the peaks at once! Be careful on some of the peaks with scree though as even rocks that appear stable can slide.

If you're new to Colorado these are great first fourteeners, just be prepared for the big weekend crowds. This can be a great long run if you start from the parking lot next to I-70.

Interesting formations that are best photographed in pre-dawn or post-sunset light.

If you're lucky and there's water, you can walk for miles in an ankle-deep lake full of stars. There will definitely be a lot of people during the day but almost no-one at night.

Night photography here is unreal. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to scout for your favorite rock during the day and never walk on wet playa. Just like it says, the main road in is horrible and will make you never want to drive again. The mountain pass road is longer but definitely smoother.

The forest on the road into the park is incredible and worth stopping to photograph. The afternoon light on the distant beach is superb and even better if you get some mist. It's windy shooting from the point so you might need to dress warmer than you think.

Explorer

12/17/15

The view here is stunning, but compositions are somewhat limited. Be careful of the eroding hillside and don't be one of those people hoping the fence. The water wasn't this blue when I visited but it was pretty stormy.

Explorer

12/17/15

This is a beautiful canyon to explore but hard to get a great photograph. Waterproof boots or sandals are a definite must with frequent stream crossings.

Not my favorite section of redwoods but it's definitely more secluded than others. If you're lucky you'll see some elk in the area too.

One of the best beaches for photography in Oregon. When planning a trip here look at the tide tables for sunset to have an idea of water around the rock formations. I've only had the chance to stop here a day each time through but I would recommend a few days to ensure a good sunset.

I've hiked and run this trail mostly in the winter and while it's a bit of a drive from Denver it's worth it. Great views and some amount of seclusion versus the trails closer to Boulder and Denver.

I grew up hiking and running this trail and it's the best in NW Ohio. Beautiful forest, not many people, and an escape from the usual farmland of the area.