Hope and Mig Lakes

Yesterday marked my first trip of the official fall season. I headed to Hope and Mig lakes, which are on the PCT and accessible for a day hike via the Tunnel Creek trail near Stevens Pass. The fall colors, especially up high, were approaching perfection.

First, a colorful scene from the Tunnel Creek trail. F/22.

Next, an image of Hope Lake. The white balance needs some attention, as does the contrast. If I can get those to look better, however, and the lake water to be more discernible, I think I'll like this composition. F/22.

Next, Mig Lake. F/22.

 Finally, a wider view of Mig Lake. I typically eschew shooting in midday sunlight, even this time of year, but this one could be salvageable. This was a middle-of-the-road exposure; I also took exposures darker and brighter than this in case either the highlights or shadows become a problem in editing. F/22.

Summer and Fall

Yesterday, I hiked the Gold Creek trail near Snoqualmie Pass. This late in the season, especially given the dry summer we've had, water levels were low. Thus I was able to continue past the Gold Creek ford, which is my customary stopping point, as I am not comfortable wading through the much stronger waters earlier in the season.

First, two views from the first major open area along the trail. The autumn colors in this spot are particularly flashy at the moment.

Some fireweed gone to seed at the same location:

Farther along the trail, there were fireweed plants still blooming. Here is an image of these flowers, with fall-colored slopes in the distance.

Old-growth forest near the end of the trail:

Lastly, a view looking down currently dry Silver Creek across the Gold Creek valley below.

Naches Peak Loop

A few days ago, I made a trip to the Naches Peak Loop trail near Chinook Pass. Given the clouds and drizzle in the Seattle area, I was hoping for some interesting clouds and diffuse lighting on the trail. Alas, it was bright and sunny, and I got a late start, meaning the lighting conditions were quite harsh during my visit. Still, a couple decent shots worth posting. First, some aster still blooming, along with pasqueflower seed heads. F/22.

Next, a view down to Dewey Lake. Despite the harsh lighting, I was attracted to the colors of the view. You can tell that autumn is on its way. F/20.

Finally, a closeup of what I think is fringed grass-of-Parnassus, or Parnassia fimbriata. F/5.