Mount Yamnuska during the fall is simply one of my favourite photographs.
I have hiked this mountain from every side in all weather during the year, and it is simply a stunning trek with spectacular views.
The fall brings the richest colours to the mountain and its surroundings.
However, late spring/early summer brings some of the most invigorating fresh air as the remaining snow at the higher elevations cools the surrounding ground and the updrafts from the valley below rush past you.
Mount Yamnuska is an iconic peak within the Canadian Rockies, nestled in Alberta, Canada. Its distinctive towering cliffs and breathtaking panoramic views stand as a testament to the region’s natural beauty.
Rising approximately 900 meters above the Bow River, it has long been a favoured destination for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a thrilling adventure amidst the rugged landscape.
Renowned for its challenging trails and exhilarating climbs, Mount Yamnuska offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts. The mountain’s diverse terrain caters to both experienced and novice hikers, with its renowned east end showcasing a series of exposed, narrow pathways, providing an adrenaline-fueled journey for those brave enough to tackle its steep cliffs.
On the other hand, the west end offers a more moderate trail, allowing hikers to revel in the stunning vistas while navigating through the lush alpine meadows and enchanting forests that adorn the slopes.
Beyond its physical allure, Mount Yamnuska holds cultural significance for the Indigenous communities in the region. It has a rich history deeply intertwined with the traditions and legends of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation. The mountain’s name itself originates from the Stoney Nakoda language, signifying its importance as a sacred site and a place of spiritual significance. This blend of natural grandeur and cultural heritage makes Mount Yamnuska a truly remarkable and revered landmark in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, inviting visitors to connect with the land’s history while embracing its awe-inspiring beauty.
This is the first composite panorama image I ever stitched.
At the time, I had a relatively modern and fast Pentium 4, and with “panotools” I combined all the images with just under 80 hours of render time (each pass, resulting in nearly 2 weeks’ worth of work to complete the overall photo).
As a test in early 2022, I stitched this same image on my modern Threadripper, and the images were combined (with considerably more modern stitching tools) in just under 1 minute and 23 seconds.
The difference that a decade in computing power is astounding, albeit unsurprising.
Camera: Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II
Lens: Sigma 150/2.8
Focal Length: 150.0 mm
Exposure: 1/500 @ f-11.0
ISO: 400
# of frames: 46
Era: Sept 2005
Posted: January 9, 2020 by Rob
Updated: December 16, 2023
Article posted in: Exhibition
Tagged as: Canada, Large Format
