Viewing Climax Mine
This required a lengthy bushwack up a steep slope in the Colorado high country (12,000+ feet.) No big deal except this mine is under heavy surveillance and warns of maximum penalties for trespassing. I pretended to ignore the signs. As I ascended, a thunderstorm was approaching and this added considerable tension. I knew it also added to the picture. Nothing more stressful then being on an exposed mountainside with 25 pounds worth of metal equipment, including a tripod that in all practicality seconds as a lighting rod. I endured and reached a good vantage point and set my camera. The wind was relentless and it took what felt like forever to find the moment between gusts and make an exposure I knew would be sharp. I shot a few sheets, repacked my gear, waterproofed my film, and started my decent. The rain broke, it hailed, and I could feel the electricity in the air all around me. I was sure I was going to get shocked but managed to make it to my car soaked but safe. Waiting for me was a handsome note pinned beneath my wiper. I wish I had it to show you, but to paraphrase: “You have been caught trespassing on private land. Your license plate has been put on a list and expect legal action.” I never heard from them.