Photographing City of Rocks National Reserve
Elephant Rock, the Twin Sisters, City Of Rocks, Idaho #84408 Purchase
In southern Idaho, near the Utah border, is a small but fascinating area of granite spires and monoliths. Although sometimes known as “Silent City,” its official name is City of Rocks National Reserve. The National Park Service and Idaho State Parks and Recreation administer this remote park on the northern edge of the Great Basin.
Over the years, City of Rocks has become a magnet for rock climbers looking to test their skills on the smooth granite. In addition, hikers, campers, and photographers are also finding the City of Rocks a quiet, out-of-the-way alternative to larger and more popular parks.
The City of Rocks is also an important historical site. Between 1843 and 1882, nearly a quarter-million pioneers traveled through here on the California Trail. The Silent City was often a brief stopover on the long, arduous journey to California. Some pioneers even left their names on the rock faces, and they are still visible today.
City of Rocks National Reserve #84384 Purchase
Photographing City of Rocks
City of Rocks has been on my must-visit list for several years. This year, I was finally able to photograph there since it was conveniently on the way to Great Basin National Park.
New visitors may find that the City of Rocks resembles Joshua Tree National Park in southern California in several ways. Both have similar rock formations and are extremely popular with climbers. Both also have cozy campsites tucked away among the rocks, which require reservations.
Window Arch, City of Rocks #84384 Purchase
Window Arch, City of Rocks #84321 Purchase
Photographers will find quite a bit of subject matter to explore. In addition to general landscape compositions, there is plenty of abstract rock detail and nature study material. There is even a small natural arch to check out. In addition, the central Silent City area is small enough to explore within a few hours.
An ideal strategy for photography in the City of Rocks is to reserve a campsite for a few days in the main area of the rocks. Just walking among the campsites will reveal many interesting spots for photography. During the day, when lighting conditions may be poor, take this opportunity to scout the area either on one of the trails or by hiking along the road.
There are eroded potholes on the top of many of the rock formations. Following rain, these potholes will be filled with water and can be used for foreground reflections in compositions.
Window Arch, City of Rocks #84346 Purchase
Essential Tips for Photographing City of Rocks
- Scouting is an essential, but often overlooked, technique for better photography. Always scout out the best locations in advance by spending the day thoroughly exploring the area. Make notes of the best spots and also how long it will take to reach them in the morning and evening golden hours
- Always allow enough time. One of the most important considerations when planning a photography trip to any location is time. Good photography rarely results from a hurried schedule. Likewise, chasing light is stressful, stay in one place and let the light come to you!
- No fees are required for entry into the City of Rocks National Reserve.
- Free campsites are available outside of the reserve on BLM land. However, these sites do not have water, restrooms, or other amenities.
- Cell service and WiFi are generally non-existent in the reserve. Although the visitor center parking lot has a decent signal.
- Fuel and basic groceries are available near the visitor center in Almo, Idaho. The nearest major town is Burley, Idaho, about 50 miles away.
City of Rocks National Reserve #84437 Purchase
Leave No Trace
Please, Please, Please! Don’t plan a trip to this or any other national park, monument, or wilderness area unless you are prepared to follow Leave No Trace guidelines (LNT). National parks and wilderness areas worldwide are under incredible pressure from the growing number of visitors. So, please do your part to help preserve these precious areas for future generations!
To learn more about the principles and practicing LNT please take a few minutes to visit the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. Your children and grandchildren will thank you!
LEAVE NO TRACE SEVEN PRINCIPLES
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
© Leave No Trace: www.LNT.org
Learn about how to protect the places we love to photograph
Visit the Nature First Website
City of Rocks National Reserve #84370 Purchase
All photos appearing in Photographing City of Rocks Idaho are available for Commercial Licensing and Fine Art Prints. Click on any image to purchase, or contact me for more info!
Photographing City of Rocks Idaho
