Dates Oct 1–8, 2006
Leaders Jack Dykinga and Jeff Foott
Second leader added as tour size warrants
Fee $2,595 from Salt Lake City, Utah
Deposit $300
Limit 16
Terms and Conditions
Soaring multicolored cliffs, winding cottonwood-lined canyons, fluid sandstone sculptures, cool fir forests and flaming aspen groves—southcentral Utah is a land of dramatic contrasts and virtually unlimited photographic possibilities. This is the setting for a spectacular week of photography along the seldom-traveled scenic back roads of Utah’s incredible slickrock country in autumn.

Here in the vast sedimentary formations of the Colorado Plateau, erosion has created a geologic wonderland of beautiful rock forms painted in a rainbow of colors. In one of the Earth's most extraordinary landscapes, we'll find sheer towering cliffs, boldly patterned terraces, sparkling red and white domes, and deep twisting canyons whose walls dance with the reflected light that elevates simple stone into incomparable sculpture.

In this multi-colored arid landscape water is the oasis of life, sheltering an abundance of plants and animals. The presence of water adds to the visual diversity, which beckons to be discovered and recorded by the photographer. Flowing water and the gentle greens of cottonwoods soften the warm reds of the canyon walls. Along stream courses are reminders of the ancient peoples who came before us, their legacy recorded in the now-silent pit houses.

At higher elevations in Dixie National Forest, we encounter cool, moist mountain forests of aspen and conifers. Our autumn Photo Safari is timed for the changing of the seasons here, when the dark green of pines accents brilliant hillsides of shimmering golden aspen leaves.

Descending from the aspen groves, we'll visit the 1.7-million-acre Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. This little known and seldom-photographed area is one of the last great wilderness regions remaining in the lower 48 states. Here, salmon, red and white sandstones swirl in fluid motion frozen in rock. We’ll be in place to meet the early morning light as it bathes these dramatic formations with a rich golden glow. Although there are some significant distances between the national monument’s most noteworthy features, their remoteness and virtual lack of tourists is part of their overall appeal.

Jack Dykinga and Jeff Foott—two exceptional leaders who know the area extremely well—will take us throughout this fantastic region. From our comfortable home base at Boulder Mountain Lodge, an incredible wealth of excellent photographic situations awaits us, whether shooting from within easy walking distance of the road or a bit more strenuous and adventurous for those who wish. Join our outstanding leaders on this special exploration of the back roads of the southwest’s remaining pristine wilderness.


Day 1
Fly into Salt Lake City and transfer to our airport hotel by complimentary shuttle. We'll meet for dinner. (D)

Day 2
Depart early for a leisurely drive to Boulder, Utah. (BLD)

Days 3–7
During these five full days we will capture striking images of the inspiring panoramas in this spectacular region. We will photograph the aspen forests on Boulder Mountain and the surrounding mountainsides in the Dixie National Forest high country. Competing with the hillsides for our attention will be breathtaking panoramas of the Waterpocket Fold below. In the national monument we’ll shoot the Devil’s Garden, capture sheer sandstone cliffs reflected in the languid Escalante River, and spend time along scenic Calf Creek. We'll venture up the historic Burr Trail through winding canyons flanked by awe-inspiring cliffs. (BLD)

Day 8
After an early breakfast we return to Salt Lake City airport, arriving by noon. Participants should make arrangements for flights departing after 1 PM. (B)


Joseph Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. P.O. Box 655, Vashon Island, Washington USA 98070
Phone: (206) 463-5383   Fax: (206) 463-5484    Email: info@photosafaris.com
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