Nearly a decade ago, I captured this fiery sunset from Tranquility Point atop Little Green Mountain in Panthertown Valley, NC. Badger raced up the Little Green Trail from Schoolhouse Falls in the dwindling light to catch up with my photographer and hiking friend Stephen Ozcomert. Upon arrival at the summit, I was immediately presented with a glowing sunset. The featured photo was taken handheld with my venerable Canon EOS M mirrorless camera, which my cousin, Teresa Mabry, gifted to me.
Photos like this one, of scenes such as this one, fueled my passion for photography. Badger was more of an adventurer than a photographer a decade ago, but my shutterbug world was quickly catching up.
This photo remains one of my favorite images from one of my most cherished spots in the Southern Appalachians. Badger initially made his name and outdoors reputation in the 10,000-acre area known colloquially as the “Yosemite of the East.” Its dramatic granite domes, 200-300-foot cliffs, bogs, trout streams, and numerous waterfalls create a wild yet tranquil landscape.
I’ve hiked the Panthertown trails countless times, finding deep peace and inspiration in the solitude and ever-changing light on the ancient rock. The steep Little Green Trail hike culminated in this scene with a priceless view.
Many of the HoneyBadgerImages are on display at instagram.com/honeybadgerimages.
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