2021 Portfolio
This summer I decided to spend my whole summer on the road. I wanted to live a dream 5 years in the making. Decided against getting an actual paying summer job to chase storms, visit national parks and explore the country from the east coast all the way to the west coast. I withdrew my lifesavings and started off on May 16, 2021 and made it back to my apartment in Greensboro, NC on August 6, 2021. No amount of money in the world would make me happier than this trip did. I met a ton of amazing people along the way, some of whom I still talk to and will talk to in the future. Below is a map of my route (storm chasing and road tripping) and also here are some of the shots I took along the way!
Buffalo Tetons
As I was driving towards Grand Teton NP, I saw a herd of buffalo grazing in the distance. They made their way to the road and blocked traffic for a good 15min.
Clean and Crisp Glacial Water
I was hiking to Sunset Lake at Grand Teton NP and saw a few streams along the way. The water was frigid! Didn't make it to the lake but this trail had amazing views.
Golden Daisy
There were a ton of perfect, untouched daisies along the trail to Sunset Lake at Grand Teton NP.
Tiny Blue Flowers
Taken along along the trail to Sunset Lake at Grand Teton NP.
Dusty Saguaro
First ever dust storm intercept! Tagged along with Mike Olbinski on July 17, 2021 and caught this along I-8 near Arizona City, AZ.
Golden Old Faithful Sunrise
I sat at the viewing area for two days and couldn't get enough of it! Watching a geyser erupt is mesmerizing and freaky because they are so weird.
Unfazed Buffalo
Rangers moved everyone away from another buffalo who was grazing near the dock. Moved to a safe spot at the front in time to catch this shot. Rangers moved a bunch of people away but I was as close as I could get. Just amazing!
Fiery Sunset Over Mt. Rainer
Talked with the Mihal family waiting for the sky to turn a fiery color. They were road tripping the country like me! If you see this, I'm sorry I didn't make it to the Caverns but its on my bucket list. Also, hello and I hope you're doing well!
Grand Canyon Haboob
My dad's second ever storm chase! I need to take him around more because he is lucky! Storms fired over the Navajo reservation and lined up. I came hoping to find some lightning, but the storm went outflow dominant and kicked up some dust. Ran into Rigsby, Jim Tang, The Dreadlock Traveler and some others. Definitely a great day!
Misty Redwood Morning
Redwood NP is in my top 3 favorite NPs! I had one of the best runs ever, woke up on the beach and enjoyed the largest trees I'll ever see. I want to be back!
Half Dome Buck
Click on the photo to see a deer that was not scared of humans. Just minded his own business while us humans were doing the same. Taken at Yosemite NP.
Small Redwood
Yeah, this one is small compared to the old ones. They are huge (and create a ton of oxygen to make your run amazing).
Petrified Wood NP
I've always had a fascination with petrified wood and had to stop at Petrified Forest NP on the way back home from Arizona because why not.
Who Knew Rocks Were So Cool
Rocks are cool but rocks that once were living things are cooler!
Blue Mesa at Petrified Forest NP
The texture and color of these formations fascinate me. Like what rock is blue?
Bright Angel Hike Sunrise
A group of friends and I decided to hike to the Cloroado River and back in a day. I didn't bring enough food and snacks to make it a comfortable hike so the way back was killer. Got to about 110 degrees at the bottom and the little shade made it a tough hike back. I'll do it in two days next time.
Kings Canyon Stream
This is the only picture I was able to keep from Kings Canyon and Sequoia NPs. I accidentally deleted them all (so sad).
Waxing Moon Over Lassen Volcanic NP
Did't think I would have a chance to stop here but saw the sign and turned right. I want to come back and hike the volcano (~8,000 ft). Also the gift shop employees are cool because they gave me free Ice-Cream. The Dixie Wildfire is near this area and I hope the NP doesn't get affected.
Oregon Coast Sunset
Talked with a fellow car camper from this area for a while before I had to find a place to rest for the night. Solo cross country road-trippers are the coolest people ever! If you see this Sid, hello and hope you enjoyed your trip!
Grand Canyon Rays
I have been to the Grand Canyon more than any other NP out there! It isn't just a hole in the ground, its a wonder of the world hole in the ground (and it never gets old).
Car Streaks
I was shooting lightning at Kendrick Park in Arizona and a few cars drove by leaving taillight streaks. Cool how this is the only part it gets.
Cyrus the Silhouette
Stopped at 1.5 mile cabin for some water and a nice break on our way to the Colorado River.
Hidden Falls at Grand Teton National Park
I have over 800 pictures of this waterfall. Pictures don't show how powerful and beautiful this was. Mesmerizing!
The Old Forgotten Road
Most of my trip back from Arizona went alongside where this famous road used to be. The history of this road is so cool and along the way there are old gas stations and motels once used when this road was open. A lot are closed now, sadly.
Blue Domes at Petrified Forest NP
As you can tell I love Arizona. It is just so different than anywhere else I've been that makes it so special.