From shadow to light

This winter scene was taken on a day trip to the mountains with friends, Cathy and Terry, on 7 December 2014. We drove the area of Highway 40 that is still open (the rest of this highway is closed during the winter months) and also the Smith-Dorrien/Spray Lakes Trail. This gravel road, south of Canmore, travels through the heart of the scenic Smith-Dorrien Valley, which is one of the wildest areas in Kananaskis.

It was a day of mixed cloud and bright sunshine, resulting in rather spectacular light at times. The scenery was incredibly beautiful, especially the areas of Kananaskis where the snow was still clinging to the coniferous trees. As well as mountain scenery, we were also lucky enough to find two Moose to watch and photograph.

I always feel so privileged when I witness any kind of wildlife, especially so when you get the chance to watch a while and learn the behaviour of the animal or bird you are lucky enough to see. My friends were so delighted to be able to let me experience this yesterday, though I always tell them that just being in such spectacular scenery and being able to photograph the mountains is more than enough for me. This day, they did really, really well!