Chasing Fall Colors—A Photographer’s Journey Through Utah’s Backcountry
The arrival of fall always pulls me out to Southern Utah, where I trade the hum of city life for the sound of wind through the trees and the crunch of gravel under my tires. This annual motorcycle trip through Utah’s backcountry is something I look forward to all year—a blend of adventure, camping, and photography. And while I typically shoot in black and white, fall’s brilliant colors demand attention in a way I can’t ignore. This trip challenges me to approach photography differently, and it always leaves me inspired.
As a black and white photographer, my focus is usually on light, contrast, and texture. But fall color photography flips that on its head—color becomes the subject. It’s not about stripping away distractions but embracing the reds, oranges, and yellows as the primary focus. There’s something exhilarating about leaning into that shift, even though it’s outside my usual creative process.
For me, this trip wasn’t just about the images but also about the experience of the season's change. Utah in the fall is unpredictable—one moment, you’re riding through golden groves of aspen, and the next, you’re navigating dusty, rocky trails under a harsh sun. The conditions pushed us, forcing us to adjust as we chased fleeting colors and camped under vast desert and mountain top skies.
This trip wouldn’t be the same without the motorcycles. Riding across Utah’s backroads brings an immersive experience that’s hard to replicate in a truck. You feel every gust of wind, every shift in temperature, and every smell along the way—especially that first whiff of sage after miles of desert. It’s not just transportation; it’s part of the adventure, and it connects me more deeply with the natural world around me.
Of course, the journey wasn’t without challenges. Six hours of road riding in triple-digit heat tested our endurance, and a rocky hill forced me to tip my bike over more than once. But these moments are part of the story—moments of difficulty that make the triumphs sweeter.
As always, the trip gave me a chance to capture moments that words alone can’t convey. While I’ll share a few favorite fall images here, the video brings the full story to life—showing the highs and lows, the camaraderie, and the beauty we found along the way.
This annual adventure is as much about the journey as it is the destination, and I hope the video and photos give a glimpse into what it felt like to be out there, living through the season's change and embracing the challenges and joys that come with it.
Every year, this trip reminds me of why I love exploring and photographing the natural world. Even though black and white will always have my heart and soul, there’s something uniquely rewarding about stepping outside that comfort zone to chase the colors of fall.
As always, I appreciate you following along on my journey.
~Andrew