LAST HIKE

Horseshoe Bluff, Mines of Spain, Dubuque, Iowa

Spring like temperatures melted most of the snow we had away in just a couple days and we took the grandkids yesterday evening for probably the last hike in 2022. We climbed up the slippery trail to the overlook at Horseshoe Bluff in the Mines of Spain Recreation Area, in Dubuque, Iowa and enjoyed the warm light on the bluffs before sunset. The eye wanders along the rock wall and stops at the still frozen Mississippi River far in the back. I always enjoy the view in both directions, north and south, but looking south and having the setting sun illuminating the rocks of this old, horseshoe shaped quarry is hard to beat.

Thank you to everybody who shared ideas, knowledge, and opinions, or just quietly enjoyed looking at my photos in 2022. I wish all friends and visitors of my website and blog post a wonderful year 2023! Stay safe!

Nikon Z6II, Nikkor Z 24-70, f/4 S,   @ 31 mm, 1/160s, f/8, ISO 640

A PERFECT WINTER DAY

Horseshoe Bluff, Mines of Spain, Dubuque, Iowa

Joan and I went on a little hike yesterday into the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area, located just south of downtown Dubuque, Iowa, and enjoyed the sun and fresh powder snow. We hiked through the old lime stone quarry and climbed up to an overlook. From there you can see up and down the Mississippi. Finally the big river had started to freeze over, although we saw still some open water in the main channel. The late afternoon sun on Horseshoe Bluffs made a good color contrast to the sky and blue reflections on the snow. Once I found a good position it was an easy click. Yes, it was cold but I call this a perfect winter day…