Sunrise Over Mt Sopris
Sunrise Over Mt Sopris
Near Carbondale, CO
Fall in Colorado is a truly magical experience, revealing some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. Standing in the early morning, witnessing the beautiful view of snow-capped peaks, golden aspens, and the invigorating mountain air - it's a perfect way to rejuvenate your spirit and connect with the beauty of nature.
Driving the backroads can sometimes be the best way to find great landscapes to photograph. A leisurely drive on this dirt road takes you past magnificent ranches and horse farms, with stunning views of Mt. Sopris in the distance. During the fall color season, this area bursts with vibrant hues, featuring golden aspens and the brilliant yellows, oranges, and reds of the abundant underbrush that blankets the mountainside.
Images and location summary by Tim Wier
Trail Difficulty - MODERATE
I rate the difficulty of this trail between 2 and 5 on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being most difficult). The location of this shot is directly off the road. However, the road has some bumpy spots on the way to the location.
GPS Coordinates & Elevation
7,942 Ft. Elevation
Photography Tips
This beautiful vista is straightforward to photograph. Arrive before sunrise, walk along the road to find the desired composition, and be set up and ready to shoot at sunrise.
Directions
CLICK HERE to get driving directions to this location.
From Carbondale, CO - head south on CO-133 for a mile or so, and you will see a sign for Prince Creek Rd (CO RD 111) on the left side of the road. Turn left, MARK THE ODOMETER ON YOUR CAR. Continue on this paved road (CO RD 111), where it will turn into Prince Creek Rd and eventually turn to a well-maintained dirt road.
From the turn off from CO-133 (main highway out of Carbondale), you will travel 5.8 miles through a country neighborhood and up into some hills until you see this wonderful scene. Property off the road is private, so please respect the land owner and photograph from the dirt road.
View In Google earth
EXIF Data
Focal Length – 45 mm
Exposure – 15th sec @ f 8.0
ISO – 100
Date – Sept 24th
Time – 7:08 am
Best Time of Day to Shoot
This is best photographed at sunrise or on an overcast day.
Best Time of Year
This location is best photographed in the fall as the Aspens and underbrush come alive with color.
Lens(es) Needed
There are several ways to photograph this location. I used a 45 mm lens.
Birds-Eye View
Permits
There are no permits to photograph from the dirt road. As mentioned, the land on both sides of the road is PRIVATE PROPERTY.
Direction of the Shot
The direction of your shot is south by southwest, around 205°.
Equipment Needed
Just a sturdy tripod.
Number of Other Photographers to Expect
There may be some other vehicles driving on this dirt road at sunrise, but most are locals going to work or driving toward Mt Sopris. Most likely, you will be the only one at this location at sunrise.
Weather
During the fall, the weather in Colorado is mild in the afternoons and cool to cold in the morning and evening.
Cell Service
There is cell service at this location.
Area Guides and Workshops
No