Monkey Face with Clouds

Iconic Image of Monkey Face

This is the angle that makes Monkey Face, Monkey Face.  While other vantage points are beautiful, this one is iconic.  As a result, when I released an image from here, I had a specific vision of how it should be.  A stormy sky was the starting point.  Bright white would make the outline of the rock really stand out, but a hazy white sky would be boring.  The dark sections of these building cumulus clouds achieve the goal while increasing the drama of the image.  I love the rich green grass of early spring.  We get to see more of it because the trees haven’t leafed out yet.  The final component was the dark cloud over the back ridge.  This directs all the focus to where it should be, Monkey Face!

The walk to reach this point isn’t a secret or hard to get to.  Hikers move through this part of the trail regularly.  On a chilly day, with a storm building, it’s a different story.  I had this beautiful view nearly to myself!  Being in a park, during these weather conditions, gives me a connection with nature. Adding in solitude connects me with the past.  A bygone time with fewer people.  Where every day meant interacting directly with the natural world, exposed to the elements, with much less control over one’s life.  (But perhaps this is a romanticized version.) Either way, this is one of those moments where it’s hard to leave!

I think about the thousands of years filled with generations of people who have walked this area and looked out at Monkey Face.  So many experiences and memories of this landmark.  Hopefully I have done it justice for you.  Perhaps looking at this image will take you back to a fond memory, a milestone in your life, time spent with a loved one, or the simple joy of enjoying the park.  A special gift for all of us!