Pacific Ocean | Russ Bishop Photography | Nature Photo Blog

February 2, 2017July 17, 2018

The Fire Within

Lava flow entering the ocean at dawn, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park,, Hawaii — Lava flow entering the ocean at dawn, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Madame Pele has re-awakened on the Big Island of Hawaii this past year sending a river of lava flowing into the sea in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. For more than a quarter century the goddess of fire has let her temperament be known on this Pacific island creating one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and once again she is restless.

This image made in the pre-dawn hour shows the raw force of fire and water combining to form new land. It is an incredible spectacle to witness and one of the most challenging subjects I have ever photographed. In years past, walking across miles of a’a lava fields (the sharp brittle variety) in the dark and carefully setting up a tripod on a newly formed shelf above the sea was the only option. But now an ocean view provides a new perspective to this ever-changing scene.

In stark contrast to shooting the lush forests and beautiful beaches on the windward side of this same island, this is a land of raw earth and fire – and beauty of a different kind. The experience is intoxicating, and once you’ve caught your first glimpse of Pele’s glow the desire to return again and again is hard to resist.

August 10, 2015March 13, 2018

Sand Dollar Beach

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, which stretches from San Francisco to Cambria California, is the largest preserve in the nation and one of the richest marine environments in the world. Migrating grey whales, sea otters and elephant seals are just some of the protected wildlife that can be experienced along this magnificent stretch of coastline.

Sand Dollar Beach in the Los Padres National Forest is one of highlights along the southern stretch of the Big Sur coast. It is one of the most rugged and scenic areas on the Pacific and a favorite location for photographers, surfers and beachcombers alike. A well-maintained trail leads down to a half-mile crescent where tide pools, caves, a rich vein of jade, and the elusive sand dollar add to the unique experience at this special place.

October 2, 2013July 12, 2018

Government Shutdown Alternatives

Cypress Tree at sunset, Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel, California

It’s unfortunate that this week our government here in the US has closed its doors, especially for those who had travel plans to visit our wonderful national parks. But all is not lost as there are many beautiful locations in state parks, wilderness, and BLM (Bureau of Land Management) areas around the country that are open and often free of charge.

In California, a few of the standouts include Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (the largest in California and second largest in the country). Northeast of San Diego, this sprawling wilderness park offers endless hiking and photographic potential in a remote setting of cactus covered hillsides and palm oasis. With Borrego Springs as your base, you can enjoy day hikes from numerous lodging options in town, or wilderness camp for free under a star-filled sky and not see a soul for days.

Point Lobos State Reserve near Monterey, Garrapata and Limekiln State Parks (all on the Big Sur Coast), provide some of the best views on the California coast. Limekiln includes coastal access and camping and trails through a primeval forest of old growth redwoods and crystal clear streams. Garrapata is a rugged, undeveloped park adjacent to Highway 1 offering quiet coves, sea arches, and stunning views of the Pacific.

Further north, Point Lobos State Reserve, which was a local haunt of Ansel Adams and Edward Weston, is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It’s wind-swept shores of rare Monterey cypress are a diver’s paradise and a great place to watch migrating whales and sea otters – and the sunsets can be truly spectacular. Other excellent spots in the area include Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and Sand Dollar Beach in the Los Padres National Forest. On the east side of the state along Highway 395 in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Alabama Hills under Mount Whitney are a vast moon-scape of giant boulders and arches made famous in early Hollywood movies and a wonderful photographic destination.

So while the politicians in Washington try to see eye to eye, those who had planned to visit America’s best idea don’t have to feel short-changed. There’s still plenty of natural beauty waiting to be explored outside the confines of the National Park System.