The Final Colors of Fall...

Since moving to Arizona in 2018, I have dived into the diverse landscape in search of new and exciting locations to photograph. High on my list has been Aravaipa Canyon, a pristine and remote riparian part of the Sonoran Desert south of Phoenix. It is a little known location with 1000 foot canyon walls, diverse wildlife, and a fascinating history. Only 30 people a day are allowed in from the west side of the Canyon per day, and permits sell out fast so I had to get mine weeks in advance. I timed my trip to the canyon for early December in hopes of hitting peak color. Fortunately Aravaipa is one of the last places in the country to hold onto fall colors, with the many sycamore and cottonwoods that line the stream. The weather cooperated and I hiked about 10 miles through this amazing place on December 8th. The canyon did not disappoint! One of the more interesting hikes I have ever done, since there is no established trail through the canyon and most of the hike is right in the creek, which flows pretty quickly through the canyon. For more of my adventure in Aravaipa, see my latest blog at:
https://www.stanroseimages.com/blog/the-secret-oasis-of-arizona/