Mesa Sunrise

An iconic photo, Mesa Arch was an obvious "must-have" in my portfolio. The arch is notorious for the sun's reflective glow on its underside. After several trips planned specifically for this shot, I was finally able to successfully capture the sun casting its golden rays in such a way to magnify the moment! This is exactly what I was seeking... an amazing moment that defies any description. This shot was captured in late winter, just days before spring.

Mesa Arch is located in Canyonlands National Park, in southeastern Utah near Moab. Mesas and buttes dot the landscape, and Mesa Arch lies on the edge of a massive mesa at about 6,130 ft (1,868 m). This eastward view catches the sun's beautiful rays as its rises each morning. Included in this shot are the features known as Airport Tower and White Rim Trail, which are in the background, about 1,600 feet (488 m) below.

File info: 1303-4-0286 [3:2]