Montezuma Castle
It had been a while since I visited Montezuma Castle outside Camp Verde in central Arizona. This iconic national monument features an ancient Sinagua dwelling built into the side of a splendid cliff face. The rock its self is very interesting with it's layers of striated rocks. I didn't spend much time in the monument itself... there are only so many possible shots and the loop trail is very short. Here's a link to more of the history of the monument.
So, I wandered back out and found a side dirt road that led down to Beaver Creek. There was a nice vista overlooking the distant monument I couldn't resist. The creek was between me and the monument. Sycamores and cottonwoods showing off their fall color were a perfect frame.
Beaver Creek Bend
This serpentine creek passes the monument and winds along the valley floor before joining up with the Verde River. I shot this big bend on the way back to the highway after spending some time exploring the creek.
Beaver Creek Sycamore Sunstar
Exploring the creek was fun. I spent a couple hours around the creek finding some nice Fall color. See more of my work or buy a print of this image on Fine Art America.
Reflections on Beaver Creek
The side road that paralleled the creek provided several opportunities for my kind of photography. This might be a nice place to camp as well. There were numerous spots with fire pits and clearings by the creek. I'd bring plenty of bug spray though. I didn't have any problems on this late October day, but in the Spring... bug heaven.
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© 2013 G. Reid Helms / Arizona Panorama
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