Summertime in the majestic peaks of Southwest Colorado is simply awe-inspiring. Meadows and hillsides are blanketed in various shades of green forests and meadows, iron-red mountains, glacial blue lakes, spring-fed waterfalls and vibrant splashes of multi-colored wildflowers. Capturing these spectacular views requires an adventure into the backcountry with our favorite jeep outfitter Switzerland of America.

Departing from Montrose on the first day, our group will take a side excursion to photograph the deep, steep-walled gorge carved into the Black Canyon by the Gunnison River. Here we will practice creative compositions of the dramatic drops and the striated cliffs rising above the river. Then it is back to Montrose to grab our luggage and head to our final base destination.

We will spend the remaining four days in Ouray, based among towering peaks in the Uncompahgre National Forest. Each day our group will traverse miles of back-country jeep trails, often reaching heights of 11,000 plus feet in elevation. Under the watchful eye of Colorado-based photographer David Jaffe, you will have the opportunity to capture scenic views from Black Bear Pass, Silver Basin, Corkscrew Gulch, Porphyry Gulch, Hurricane Pass and the historic ghost town of Animas Forks. Whether focusing on grand mountain landscapes, or intimate macro vignettes, David will help you with tips and techniques for creating stunning images.

If fresh mountain air, unparalleled scenery and great photography are to your liking, then join us for the Rocky Mountain High workshop.