I had a week off in late September for my annual fall colors shoot--but it was too early this year; the leaves changed about a week-10 days late. So, once back to work, I eyed the weather for a couple opportunites to make quick day trips to the mountains, to catch the peak colors. This was my first whirlwind tour--I snuck it in on a day off so I had a full 24 hours to play with. Drove over Monarch Pass, on to Ohio and Kebler Passes (in the pouring rain), then slid down to 133 and McClure Pass. Next morning, shot Maroon Bells and the Aspen area, then back over Independence Pass and on home! Nothing beats bad weather for good photography. All the mud in my car was well worth it. Here's the highlites!
Fall Circuit 2011 Part I

Over the Divide
The aspen going over Monarch Pass were near peak.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.

Split Decision
Neat mix of evergreens and aspen.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.

Standing Tall
It started raining harder as I went over Ohio Pass, and I began to wonder how far I'd get with 2WD!
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.

Ferns in White
The famous Kebler ferns.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.

Marcellina Madness
Marcellina Mountain in its foggy glory.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.

Marcellina II
Close up of a fresh waterfall.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.

Ragged Weather
Zooming in on the Raggeds from Dark Canyon.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.

Raggeds Pano
Panorama pf the Raggeds, as a slight break in the storm allows a quick view.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.

Mega-Raggeds
This is a 10 image stitch--nearly 80 million pixels!
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.

Raggeds Fall I
Fog and Fall are a winning combination!
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.

Apparition
The Raggeds, from the approach to McClure Pass.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.

Out of the Void
Amazing juxtaposition of cloud and trees.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.