Living in the volcanic landscapes of Northern Arizona, I pass Maroon Crater regularly. One of the routes home takes me along a dirt road through the Coconino National Forest, with the crater rising to the east. What’s always caught my attention is the contrast of the dark volcanic cone framed by two huge ponderosa pines. Every time I drive by, I find myself hoping for that one perfect combination of light and composition. Despite having lived in the area for decades, those moments have been surprisingly rare.
Over the years, I began wondering what Maroon Crater might look like from above. I’d found such vantage points before, but they were too far away to capture the image I had in mind. Rather than setting out on a dedicated scouting trip, I gradually discovered the access I needed by driving the back roads of the area. Eventually, I found a route leading to a steep slope that seemed promising. It wasn’t an easy climb, but it looked like it could offer the perspective I’d been searching for.
This was in the earlier days of digital photography. I was carrying a heavy Canon EOS-1DS Mark III and a sturdy tripod — equipment that felt considerably heavier on a loose cinder slope than it had back at the vehicle. Step by step, I worked my way uphill through deep volcanic cinders, racing the approaching sunset. The climb was steep, and I had no view of Maroon Crater during any of the ascent. I was simply hoping that the effort would pay off.
When I finally reached the top, the view opened up all at once. Maroon Crater lay before me exactly as I’d hoped, only better. As if the scene wasn’t spectacular enough, an unexpected rainbow appeared, completing the photograph. The surrounding volcanic landscape and the approaching evening light were breathtaking. I could hardly believe what I was seeing. I quickly unpacked my camera and tripod and began photographing the scene, knowing the light could change at any moment. The image that resulted was one of those rare occasions when preparation, persistence and a bit of luck came together at exactly the right time.