Crystal Panorama

Story

Crystal Mill, Colorado, is an iconic location. Often claimed to be one of the most photographed places in Colorado, it certainly seems like that some days. Crystal Panorama shows us why.

Still, although pavement comes to within just six miles of Crystal, those last few miles are not for the faint of heart, and not every vehicle is suitable for the adventure. For those that make it there, though, the view is as advertised, which is to say, extraordinary.

As interesting as the mil itself is, and it’s history is rich and storied, it is the surrounding area, and, more specifically, the way the mill sits within its surroundings that make it such a compelling subject.

There is a small waterfall by the mill; quiet in the fall, this fall has a completely different personality with the spring runoff fueling it. A stand of aspens are on the other side; quiet in the spring their colors come alive in the fall, providing the perfect counterpoint to the mill itself.

And the Crystal River, which widens considerably after the fall, and, at least for a short stretch, runs a little slower.

This photograph, for me, represents the entire scene that is Crystal Mill. It is particularly meaningful to me, as well, since I remember well the day it was made. May this scene provide to you the same feelings of wonder, joy, and above all, peace.

Crystal in Summer

Crystal’s Summer shows us that Crystal Mill looks incredible in the summer, too.