The start of autumn in Jacob Canyon, in Kaibab National Forest, northern Arizona. Photo by Steve Bruno.
The start of autumn in Jacob Canyon, in Kaibab National Forest, northern Arizona. Photo by Steve Bruno.

There are places where it seems you have to fight for elbow room to get your photographs, nowadays.  Most national parks come to mind, but even those have room to venture about, unless you’re looking for that classic shot.  In autumn, places like the Maroon Bells in Colorado, and Oak Creek Canyon in Arizona are just as packed as any national park in peak season.

I’ve always liked finding hidden gems, and this place, Jacob Canyon, certainly comes to mind.  In between Grand Canyon, Zion, and Bryce, there’s little chance of it becoming a destination for many.  The canyon runs for some distance, and is a great place to just get out and walk in the fresh air.  The area that the leaves change is quite condensed, as the forest is dominated by ponderosa pines.  To me, its main beauty is that I can have the place to myself most days of the year.