Badlands Sunset

Story

Badlands National Park, in South Dakota, is known for its sweeping prairies and its iconic rock formations, collectively known as “the wall.” The wall, portions of which are hundreds of feet tall, cuts east to west across the state. At one time, was a virtually impassible barrier. Running through it are steep, sheer cliffs, and rock spires, creating a fairyland of shapes and forms. Badlands Sunset showcases these rocks.

Often, especially in the middle of the day with the sun high overhead, the rocks are drab and colorless. Even though many of the formations have striations running through them, the harsh daylight mutes the gentle colors. Overall, the entire landscape appears barren and harsh.

Yet, at the beginning and end of the day, when the sun is low in the sky, it’s warm light bathes the same rocks, and they showcase their magnificent colors and lines. What was drab is now vibrant and glowing, seemingly with its own inner light.

Immediately after a fierce thunderstorm rolled through the park I made Badlands Sunset. The wet rock and grasses glowed in the last of the day’s light, creating a scene that transcends time.

More from Badlands National Park

You can read the adventure and go behind the scenes of Badlands National Park.