Storm Clouds Above Delicate Arch, Utah
Photographing the many moods and varied views of Delicate Arch has long been a project of mine. I’ve made the 1.5 mile hike dozens of times and I’m still awestruck as I round the corner at trail’s end to see this imposing sculpture standing before me. I believe it epitomizes Canyon Country. The red sandstone form of Delicate Arch perfectly frames the snowcapped La Sal Mountains. In between lies some of the most wild, beautiful and rugged terrain you’ll find in the lower 48. It is impossible to stand at Delicate Arch and not fall in love.
On New Year’s Eve, 2004, Melissa and I hiked to Delicate Arch for sunset. We brought a camp stove and our down jackets as we planned to stay after the small winter crowds departed to celebrate the arrival of the new year. After sunset we huddled behind a boulder to block the incessant wind and prepared a fine backcountry dinner on the stove. The night was cold and it seemed as though every star in the universe shone brightly against the clear black sky. Shortly before midnight we walked under the arch, I gave her a big hug and surprised her with my Mom’s ring and a marriage proposal. Almost seven months later we were married in a wildflower filled meadow below the jagged granite peaks of the Tetons.
This image of Delicate Arch wasn’t made that evening, but it is our favorite photograph of this most special of places. It hangs above our couch as a 30″ x 45″ framed canvas print – a constant reminder of the commitment we made to one another and of our mutual love for the Moab area we call home.
Purchase a fine art print of this Delicate Arch photograph
Read “My Favorite Photos of the Decade – Part One”
8 Responses to “My Favorite Photos of the Decade – Part Two”
Tim Smalley says:
A lovely story Bret, and the photograph to accompany it isn’t half-bad either. One’s favourite images are always made in locations that have a special place in the photographer’s heart – I’m looking forward to seeing the rest of the series!
All the best for 2011,
Tim
Russ Bishop says:
What a wonderful story (and image) Bret. Delicate Arch is such a magical place and you’ve made a life-long connection with it. My wife and I were married in Yosemite so I know the feeling
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Heather says:
Beautiful!!
Bret Edge says:
I really appreciate the comments, everyone.
Russ: Getting married in Yosemite is an awesome way to start a life together!
Jackson Frishman says:
Nice, Bret! This shot of Delicate stands with the best of them. And I can identify with the associations; I first connected with my high school sweetheart at Delicate Arch. Haven’t been back since, though; I really ought to take my wife there one of these days.
Looking forward to more in this series!
Ron Niebrugge says:
Love the story!
Alister Benn says:
What a sweet story Bret.. Juanli dragged me into the Hong Kong Registry office by my ear
Beate Dalbec says:
Your story made this picture even more beautiful. I can see why it is so special to you.