Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/75191
Photographed and Written by Derek Von Briesen From the very first time I stood high above Monument Valley on the precipice of the legendary Hunt's Mesa, journeys there have been spiritual experiences. Setting foot there, one can almost feel the history, recalling the catalogue of shots made famous by some of the greatest photographers ever. Each trip is unique, some yielding spectacular results photographically; other times shut out by light but nonetheless deeply appreciated for the drama of monsoon skies with claps of reverberating thunder and diamond-like strikes of lightning. Combined with a harrowing, two-hour 4x4 drive up and down what can only charitably be described as a 'jeep trail' and the quiet serenity of camping under wondrously starry skies miles from worldly concerns, an overnight on Hunt's Mesa is a photographic adventure of the highest order. As is all of Monument Valley. Try shooting the world famous Mittens at sunrise, then take the public 17 Mile Drive thru the valley as summer monsoon clouds build. Stop in at John Ford Point (yes, that John Ford!), catch the early afternoon light at Artist's Point and the North Window. On the same drive, the Three Sisters and Camel Butte make exceptional subjects with the right light. Likely you'll see a dozen more shots and perspectives that will leave you awestruck. While the valley drive is fantastic photographically, without hiring a Navajo guide you'll miss some of the greatest places & shots in Navajoland as well as all the interesting historic perspectivss offered by an informed guide. They'll take you into Navajoland's far reaches. At dawn, the Totem Pole and Y'ei Be Chei, with its silhouetted sunrise and side-lit swirls of sand is a perfect shot. As the morning unfolds, you'll visit a variety of massive sandstone arches & petroglyphs with endless photographic possibilities. Mystery Valley with its ancient ruins, amazing rock formations and monument vistas works wonderfully in the afternoon. End the day with a guided stop at Tear Drop Arch and finally watch the sunset light fade on the Mittens. The round rocks made famous by Ansel Adams, at the edge of the View parking lot, are perfect in the late afternoon light. It's easy to understand why the perspectives of Monument Valley have been shot hundred of thousands of times thru the years. Still, going home with your own is undeniably special. You could even say spiritual. Like all of Navajoland. One last tip: whatever you do, don't miss Hunt's Mesa. In all my travels in the American Southwest, I've experienced only a few vistas that can even come close to how extraordinary the view is here. © Derek Von Briesen 5 © Derek Von Briesen © Derek Von Briesen