Capulin Volcano National Monument

On the way back from Breckenridge I was able to talk Sarah into stopping at the Capulin Volcano National Monument in New Mexico. We have driven by this a dozen times but it's always right in the middle of the drive so you are either ready to get there or ready to get home. But since I started my National Park Quest.....I figured I would have better luck. That and I promised a 20 minute back massage!

There wasn't much to this monument but it was neat to drive into the crater and view the surrounding area.

The view inside the cone

Rocky Mountain National Park

I attended a conference recently in Estes Park....yea they really had to twist my arm to make that trip. Spent a little bit of time early in the morning photographing in the park - was actually pretty proud of some of these pictures.

Remember to look at the entire gallery at www.russellhaddock.com

This might be one of my favorite pictures. Was driving to the top - Alpine Visitors Center and came across a group of Elk.

I always figured those horns would get heavy.

One of the highlights of this trip - I have been to Rocky Mountain NP many times and have yet to see a moose. This time I came across this mother and her calves. It was pouring down rain and I was the only one out taking pictures....but then again that probably doesn't surprise anyone.

Sunrise at Sprague Lake

Came across these ducks as I walked around Sprague Lake after the sunrise shoot. I was actually packing up the gear and heading to the car when I saw this shot.

I have been to the Bear Lake area of RMNP every trip and come away with different photographs - but haven't hiked all the way to Emerald Lake. Finally did that late Sunday evening - actually took this shot at Nymph Lake on the way back.

Nymph Lake

Emerald Lake

Stream between Emerald Lake and Dream Lake