Fall Reflection

Photograph Story | Fall Reflection

Arizona will always have a special place in my heart. While living in this gem of a state, I completely fell in love with photography and launched Alaina Ann Photography. There are many days I miss living in the foothills of the Rincon Mountains.

During a beautiful November day, I found myself hiking in Oak Creek Canyon on the West Fork Trail, between Sedona and Flagstaff. The leaves were turning against the beautiful red rock backdrops. The trail goes along the creek at the bottom of a 1,000 foot canyon. Easily one of my favorite hikes in Arizona!

The hike is 6 miles, with the option to extend an additional 11 miles into the Secret Mountain Wilderness. The extra miles, however, are unmarked. My round-trip hike ended up being just shy of 10 miles.

On the way back, I noticed the fall colors swirling in the creek. After making my way onto a rock and walking to the edge, I leaned over and captured this fall reflection photograph. Although I generally go for crisp, in focus captures, I enjoyed playing with my camera settings to capture this watercolor scene.

I am anxious to make my way back to the West Fork Trail, since the Sedona fires have subsided and the trails have reopened. Most reports indicate the trail and surrounding area is mostly intact and the fire devastation was less than anticipated.

If you find yourself in Sedona or Flagstaff, I highly recommend hiking this spectacular trail.