Craggy Gardens Sunset

One of my favorite spots this time of year is the bald or dome at Craggy Gardens, especially at sunrise or sunset.  You can go in from the visitors center at about mile post 364 or from Craggy Gardens picnic area around mile post 368.  I like to go in from the visitors center side because there are several spots along the trail that often have Rhododendrons arching over the trail.

Well....my luck is running true to form.  I passed great Rhododendrons, Mountain Laurel and Flame Azaleas at about 4,000 to 5,000 feet but Craggy Dome is about 6,000 feet up and the Rhododendrons are just starting to bloom.  My guess is the week of 6-6 and 6-13 to catch them at the prime time.

Tried a few shots of the trees in the field but nothing to write home about.  Lots of haze in the air!  When the bloom reaches the bald it will be beautiful!

Plan on taking a split neutral density filter to help balance the bright sky and the Rhododendrons.  The other way is to shoot a series of exposures for HDR work in post processing.

Use a wide angle lens to capture the feel of the bald with the grass, the Rhododendrons, and the mountain peaks in the distance.  Also bring a longer lens to isolate the Rhododendron blossoms.  Plan on fighting with the wind, it is seldom quiet at Craggy Dome.

Be there if you can!