Richard Budde

Forest Park

Yellowstone NP

Great Sand Dunes NP
May 25

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a breathtaking U.S. national park located in south-central Colorado. It's renowned for its massive dunes, which are the tallest in North America, rising to heights of up to 750 feet. Established as a national monument in 1932 and later designated a national park and preserve, it spans over 149,000 acres, encompassing a diverse range of ecosystems from wetlands and forests to tundra. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as sand sledding, hiking, and stargazing in this unique landscape. The park's diverse ecology supports specially adapted wildlife and plant species, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Valley of the Gods
May 26

The Valley of the Gods, a majestic and secluded area in southeastern Utah, offers a glimpse into a natural world of immense beauty. This hidden gem, often compared to the more famous Monument Valley, features a stunning array of sandstone towers, buttes, and mesas that rise dramatically from the earth, creating a striking visual spectacle. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, it's a place where visitors can experience the grandeur of the American Southwest's landscapes, with its vast, open spaces that evoke a sense of freedom and adventure. The Valley of the Gods is not only a testament to the geological history of the region but also serves as a serene escape for those looking to explore the quieter side of Utah's rugged wilderness.

Monument Valley
May 27

Monument Valley, known as Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii in the Navajo language, is not only a natural wonder but also a cultural emblem. This majestic landscape is characterized by towering sandstone buttes, some reaching a staggering 1,000 feet above the valley floor. It's a region where the forces of nature have sculpted the earth into breathtaking formations over millions of years, creating a tapestry of colors and shadows that shift with the sun's passage. Monument Valley is sacred to the Navajo Nation, embodying a rich history and spiritual significance that continues to resonate today. Visitors can explore this iconic terrain through guided tours, experiencing the harmony of nature and culture that defines this unique place.

Macro Photography
July 28

Here are some links regarding Macro photography

Salt Lake City trip
August 22-26

Fall Colors
October 1-22

Here are some links regarding Fall photography

Grand Teton NP

Wilson WY

Bryce Canyon NP
October 25

Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a stunning expanse of geological grandeur. The park is renowned for its hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock that protrude from the bottom of arid basins. These hoodoos are the largest collection found on Earth, creating a natural amphitheater that is simply breathtaking. Visitors to the park can enjoy a high plateau at the top of the Grand Staircase, where life communities thrive and the night skies are so dark that they offer an unrivaled view of the stars. With a variety of hiking trails, Bryce Canyon is a paradise for those seeking both adventure and tranquility in the great outdoors.

Petrified Forest NP
October 26

Petrified Forest National Park, a marvel of geology and history, is located in northeastern Arizona. This park is renowned for its vast and colorful deposits of petrified wood, dating back to the Triassic Period, over 200 million years ago. Visitors can explore the Painted Desert, where layers of earth reveal a tapestry of colors, and the landscape is dotted with fossils that tell tales of a prehistoric ecosystem. With a rich tapestry of cultural history, the park also protects ancient petroglyphs and archaeological sites, offering a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants. The Petrified Forest is a testament to the beauty and mystery of nature's enduring strength, inviting adventurers and scholars alike to ponder the forces that have shaped our planet.