I recently shared a few photos from my visit to Lake Cushman on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state.
If you missed it, read that part of the story HERE.
With many areas near Lake Cushman still inaccessible by vehicle, I headed to the next watershed to the north, the Hamma Hamma River. A quick drive to the river via Highway 101 would have been possible. But that’s no fun. I mapped an interesting overland route via forest roads to reach the river.
I have an innate love for exploring the outdoors. My dad was the same way. Growing up, we would drive remote forest roads with no destination in mind. We wanted to experience what we discovered.
This passion for exploration shows through in the subjects I photograph. My photography often consists of heading off to a general area and exploring. If I find something that I connect with, I make a photograph. If I come back empty-handed, I’m not disappointed; I have the experience of nature.
I explored several forest roads that branched off from the route. All became unpassable from snow or fallen trees.
My route to the Hamma Hamma River led me to new areas I wanted to explore. One area of interest is the Jefferson Creek drainage.
I arrived in the Hamma Hamma River Valley early evening. The first decent view of the river was along a bend. Because the forest was thick, it meant a tromp through the bush. While hanging over the edge of a bank, I captured the scene.
The next view of the river was at a bridge crossing. Obstructions blocked the view, requiring me to travel further upstream. First, climbing down a rocky embankment. Then over the slick and mossy rocky surface until I found my composition. One slip and I would be in the river. It was worth the effort.
Here is a short behind-the-scenes video of my experience along the river on YouTube HERE.
