Zion National Park is one of my favorite places for landscape photography.  There are numerous bold and magnificent sites that attract thousands of visitors each year, and I have certainly captured a number of satisfying images at such popular locations.  However, the scenes which have more lasting emotional impact on me are the more subtle ones — those off the beaten path.

 

The Grotto Trail is a short path in Zion Canyon — a path less travelled — which connects the Grotto Picnic Area with Zion Lodge.  It is an easy and mostly level path which affords a delightful stroll.  At dusk, as you’re walking toward Zion Lodge, you are greeted with this tranquil scene to your right.  Direct sunlight hides early behind the tall canyon walls, producing a flat (almost pastel) lighting which compliments the still and cool air.  The noble trees are gently arched and holding hands, with their ruffles perfectly motionless, as if paused momentarily on a half note in a gavotte.  I’ve taken this walk a number of times at around this time of day, often with my family, and I always find it immensely peaceful, relaxing, and soothing — a nice end to a stimulating day.