For the past year I’ve been taking photographs to contribute to the work of Friends of the Cascade Siskiyou National Monument to celebrate the monument’s 15th year.
Pilot rock in deep winter © 2016 Matt Witt
Recently, I had the pleasure of sifting through them and putting together an online album to share of a few dozen of my favorites.
The first thing I noticed was what a big part fog plays in many of them. Winter fog creating drama around Pilot Rock. Wet fog making spring colors sparkle. Fog creating rainbow colors as sun shines through the trees. Fog softening the light of dawn in the woods on Porcupine Mountain.
Next I noticed the snow. What a gift that we who live in the valleys where snow rarely accumulates anymore have a nearby mountain wilderness where winter’s magic is still on display.
Phlox and dried wood © 2016 Matt Witt
And last I noticed the variety of what the monument has to offer. Spectacular rock formations. Sweeping views. Flowers of many shapes and colors. Butterflies and other living creatures.
This year’s project is complete, and feedback is welcome if you click online album to check the Cascade Siskiyou National Monument album out. But I look forward to continuing to hike and photograph in the monument in the years to come, and to supporting all those who promote our public lands and protect the natural environment around us.
--Matt Witt, photographer