In the far northeast corner of Mt. Rainier National Park, you will find enchanting lakes and viewpoints that offer visual windows to this majestic mountain. Tipsoo Lake has multiple sections that stretch beyond the park's boundaries and skirt along the Pacific Crest Trail. A full day of exploring will grant you numerous photo opportunities, from far views of the Cascade mountains to an abundance of wildlife and everything in between.

This particular evening was quiet and without the normal crowds that can flood this area. Fall time in the park offers more solitude than during the wildflower season of summer. As I enjoyed watching a young family get their photos taken in this grand setting, I noticed the clouds started to form interesting patterns throughout the sky. Usually, I would shoot this location with my 24 – 70 lens, which would help to pull the mountain closer, but I soon realized I would compromise the larger scene. So, I gave up the compression and opted for the reflection using my 16 – 35. This lens choice was needed, but it is always somewhat disappointing to view the mountain appearing so small when, in fact, it dominates the scene. I find that frequently changing lenses during a photo shoot will grant you a larger volume of images taken with a wide variety of angles and perspectives.

This evening's sunset left me speechless. I frequently found myself not shooting but gasping in awe. The progression of clouds, light, and color was a fitting end to an amazing day on the mountain. I was thankful on this day that not only did color show up, but the mountain was out.

Trivia note: you will find locals calling Mt Rainier "the mountain" with phrases like, "The mountain is out" or "Is the mountain out?" This refers to if you will be lucky enough to see "the mountain."