Oxbow Bend
Oxbow Bend
Oxbow Bend may be one of the most photographed locations in Grand Teton National Park. It is not far from the Moran Entrance to the park, and there is a large parking lot just off the road. Simply step out of the car and be treated to a majestic view of the snake river as it bends around, with Mt Moran in the background. The gentle flow of the river, and large pool created by the bend often offer mirror like reflections of the mountains.
Boy was it cold when I took this picture shortly before dawn on a late spring morning. The good news was, I was the only other photographer there, which is a rare sunrise for this location. The clouds were hanging low, and hiding the tops of the mountains from me once again. But I rather like the mystery and drama they created. I saw a lot of wildlife that morning, a couple of elk, and lots of birds. The cold crisp air was refreshing, and a great reminder of just how wonderful life is.
Cool, Calm, and Reflected
The first time I came to Grand Teton National Park, I tried very unsuccessfully to capture the Milky Way at Oxbow Bend. After a couple of years practice, I was much better equipped to find and catch a photograph of it. In order to see the Milky Way at Oxbow Bend, you’ve got to face the opposite way that most do when photographing this beautiful location. Unlike my other shots, this may be a view you haven’t seen captured on a lot of other web site. The clarity of the Milky Way here is a testimony to how dark the skies in the park actually are.
The Other Side Of The Bend
Moonlit Bend
In an effort to capture a more unique view of this iconic location, I came on the night of a full moon. The lighting reminded me of pre-dawn, the moon was so bright. I was amazed at the reflection of the mountains in the river, and how visible they were. I think this place may be more beautiful after dark, than it is during the day.