F. Mount Blue Sky (Mt. Evans) Elevated Perspectives Photography July 17th – 21st
$2,950 single Occupancy
Join award-winning nature and wildlife photographer Donald Quintana for a boutique photography retreat to one of Colorado's most breathtaking alpine environments. Moutn Blue Sky (Formally Mount Evans) offers unmatched opportunities to photograph landscapes, wildlife, and dramatic mountain light. This exclusive small-group tour is designed for serious nature photographers who want personal instruction, intimate group size, and a fully curated experience. This high-altitude photography tour ascends to elevations of up to 14,265 feet on Mount Blue Sky, where participants should be in good health and prepared for the unique challenges of a mountain environment. Light hiking over uneven terrain is required to reach prime photographic locations, and weather conditions can change quickly—even in summer—bringing intense sun, wind, rain, or sudden drops in temperature. Layered clothing, sturdy footwear, and sun protection are essential. A detailed packing list will be provided upon registration to help ensure you're fully prepared. This tour is crafted for those with a spirit of adventure and a deep appreciation for the rugged beauty and remarkable wildlife of the high country.
To sign up, send me an e-mail letting me know you are interested!
Itinerary
- Day 1 (July 17)
Clients arrive at Denver International Airport by noon. Group pickup and private SUV transfer to Idaho Springs. Check-in at Indian Hot Springs (single rooms for all participants). Welcome dinner and orientation. - Day 2 (July 18)
Early departure for sunrise photography at Mount Evans Scenic Byway. Full day photographing landscapes, Summit Lake, alpine flowers, and wildlife. Return to Indian Hot Springs for evening relaxation and photo review. - Day 3 (July 19)
Another full day on Mount Evans capturing different light, compositions, and wildlife opportunities. Evening return to Indian Hot Springs for group dinner and discussion. - Day 4 (July 20)
Optional sunrise shoot at nearby Echo Lake or local mountain vistas. Free afternoon or additional guided instruction. Final group dinner and portfolio sharing. - Day 5 (July 21)
Check-out and return transfer to Denver International Airport. Clients depart.
This is a high-altitude photography tour that reaches elevations up to 14,265 feet, so participants should be in good health and acclimated to mountain environments. Light hiking and walking over uneven terrain will be required to access key photographic locations. Weather conditions in the alpine zone can shift rapidly—even in summer—so participants must be prepared for sun, wind, rain, and sudden temperature drops. Layered clothing, sturdy footwear, and sun protection are essential. A detailed packing list will be provided upon registration to help you prepare comfortably and safely for the experience. This tour is designed for those with a spirit of adventure and a deep appreciation for high-country wildlife and scenic beauty.
Mount Blue Sky is home to a variety of hardy alpine mammals that have adapted to the extreme conditions of high elevation. Most iconic among them are mountain goats, often seen near the summit, grazing or navigating steep rocky outcrops with ease. Bighorn sheep are also frequently observed along the ridgelines and higher slopes. The area’s rocky talus fields provide excellent habitat for yellow-bellied marmots, which can be seen basking in the sun or scurrying between boulders, and the smaller, elusive pika, whose high-pitched calls echo across the tundra. In the lower alpine and subalpine zones along the approach to the summit, you may also encounter mule deer and American elk, especially during the early morning or evening hours when they are most active.
What’s Included
- 4 nights single-occupancy lodging at Indian Hot Springs
- All meals from dinner Day 1 to breakfast Day 5
- Airport pickup and drop-off
- Private SUV transportation for the entire tour
- Park permits and access fees
- Personalized photo instruction and mentoring from Donald Quintana
What’s Not Included
- Flights to and from Denver International Airport
- Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
Pricing
• $2,950 per person
• Maximum 3 participants
• $500 deposit required to reserve your spot
• Balance due 60 days prior to tour start date