Richard Budde

Badlands NP
May 22

Badlands National Park, located in South Dakota, is a stunning display of natural architecture with its sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and the largest undisturbed mixed grass prairie in the United States. This park is not only a haven for geology enthusiasts but also a sanctuary for wildlife, including bison and bighorn sheep. With a rich fossil bed, the park provides an extraordinary glimpse into the earth's geological past, while also offering a variety of activities such as hiking and camping for visitors.

Rick Schuessler and I made our third visit to Badlands NP. In my opinion, it is one of those special places for photography with the wonderful formations and colors.

Devil's Tower NM
May 23

Devils Tower National Monument is a striking geologic feature that rises above the rolling plains of northeastern Wyoming. This natural wonder is not only a paradise for climbers with its hundreds of parallel cracks but also holds deep cultural significance for many Northern Plains tribes. Established as America's first national monument in 1906, Devils Tower invites visitors to explore its trails, witness its unique columnar jointing, and discover the rich history and legends that surround it.

This was our first visit to Devil's Tower. We figured that it was only a short bit out of our way so why not!

Montana Hwy 89
May 24

Montana Highway 89, also known as U.S. Route 89, is a scenic route that stretches approximately 400 miles from Yellowstone National Park to the Canadian border. It is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, connecting two of the nation's most famous national parks: Yellowstone and Glacier. Along this route, travelers can experience the diverse beauty of Montana, from the rugged Rocky Mountain Front to the serene Paradise Valley. The highway is not just a path but a journey through the heart of Montana's rich natural and cultural heritage.

We had originally planned to enter Yellowstone NP from Cody WY, but that entrance was closed. We visited a former Wash U basketball player in Emigrant MT. She and her husband own a bakery/BBQ restaurant there.

Lamar Valley of Yellowstone NP
May 24-26

Lamar Valley, often referred to as America's Serengeti, is a must-see destination within Yellowstone National Park, renowned for its high visibility of diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can expect to encounter herds of bison, packs of wolves, and a variety of other wildlife in their natural habitat. The valley's rich ecosystem is accessible via a scenic drive, with numerous pullouts allowing for safe wildlife viewing and photography. For those interested in experiencing the valley's wonders, it's advisable to visit during dawn or dusk when animals are most active.

This was our main objective on the drive out. We were based in Gardiner MT and made multiple trips into the Lamar Valley. We saw one wolf, but it was far away and not in the open for very long.

Grand Teton NP
June 14

Grand Teton National Park, located in northwestern Wyoming, is a stunning expanse of wilderness known for its dramatic peaks, including the iconic Grand Teton. The park spans over 310,000 acres, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a landscape rich with wildlife, pristine lakes, and alpine vistas. With a history of human presence dating back over 11,000 years, it's a place where one can connect with nature and experience the grandeur of the American West.

My neighbor Craig Larsen and I drove over to GTNP to try to find the location where a nice photo that he ran across was taken. We didn't find it but got some decent photos.

Grand Teton NP

Dubois Wyoming
August 10

Sue Lurie and I took a drive over to Dubois to visit some of the locations Sue had scouted several weeks ago.

Absaroka Volcanic Province - Geology of Wyoming

Sue Lurie and I took the day to explore the badlands area around Dubois. Some very nice locations.

Abstract

Stormy sky

Two Ocean peak

Fireweed

Two Ocean peak

Fireweed

Grand Teton NP
August 15

Highway 26
September 21

Highway 26 offers a scenic journey along the Snake River, providing travelers with a blend of natural beauty and historical richness. This route is part of the Snake River Canyon Scenic Byway, a 53-mile stretch that meander through southwestern Idaho's agricultural lands, showcasing orchards, vineyards, and a variety of rural experiences.

Sue Lurie and I made the drive along Highway 26 in search of fall colors. Spoiler alert... we found some!

Yellowstone NP
September 27

Rodney Henry and I took a day trip up to the Lamar Valley section of Yellowstone.

State Line Road
October 13

Rick Schuessler and I drove the State Line Road in search of some Fall photos.

Moonscape Overlook
October 16

Moonscape Overlook, nestled in the rugged terrain of Southern Utah, offers a breathtaking panorama that truly lives up to its name. This remote viewpoint presents a landscape so alien and lunar-like that it leaves visitors in awe. With its vast valleys filled with wave-like and cratered formations, the Overlook provides a unique opportunity to gaze upon a scene that seems plucked from the moon itself.

Most of these photos were taken with my new DJI Mini 4 Pro drone.

Comet

San Rafael Swell
October 17

The San Rafael Swell is a breathtaking geological wonder in Utah, known for its striking landscapes of deep canyons, towering mesas, and intriguing rock formations. Formed by the upheaval of the Earth's crust millions of years ago, this area offers a playground for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Rick Schuessler, Sue Lurie and I drove the Swell one of our three days in Hanksville UT.

Interstate 70

Dirty Devil River

August A Busch Wildlife Area
November 1

Drone photography is an exciting way to capture stunning aerial views and unique perspectives that are otherwise impossible to achieve.

Took the drone out this afternoon to gain some more experience. Shot in RAW today and Lightroom recognized it.

Agusta Missouri
November 17

Augusta, Missouri, is a charming small town located in St. Charles County, nestled in the rolling hills along the bluffs of the Missouri River. It's known for its rich history, beautiful scenery, and as America's first designated wine region.

These are photos taken with my DJI Mini 4 Pro drone.