Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, Oregon, is an iconic spot for photographers and beach strollers. Sunsets there are often magnificent, whether with a burst of sun through late-day clouds or wind-driven waves crashing ashore during a winter storm.

This image was made on February 22nd, an evening with perfect conditions for photographers and runners on the beach. Birds, including delightful puffins, make their nests on the cliffs of Haystack Rock. Nothing will create a greater frenzy in the sky than an eagle flying to attempt a nest raid.

At low tide, a visitor can walk all the way around Haystack, but when the tide is in, waves crash into her sides, creating great columns of ocean spray. The Haystack must be visited again and again to be fully appreciated.