Low Tide

Image: "Low Tide Sand"

While I was out making photographs last night, the massive tidal zone at Eagle Beach was uncovered. To my astonishment, the water was still receding, so I suppose the tides are pretty low right now. I'm not really a "check the tables" kind of guy, but I thought conditions seemed at least somewhat unusual. It might make for some photographic opportunities around the state.

Kent,
Thanks for sharing this image. I always enjoy unique veiws of Alaska, this reminds me of living in California and photographing in the desert in the winter, dunes and snow covered mountains. There must have been a good amount of wind recently, silt doesn't form those nice ripples like sand does without some serious blowing?

On a different note:
Any new caves forming up on the Mend? Your glacier images are some of my favorites. Some day I hope to make it down there.

Carl

I spent several hours at the glacier today exploring a little on both the east and west edges of the toe. I had hoped to check on a cave on the east side that I've never been able to get to before, but the waterfall that flows out that end was coming from under a huge pile of ice boulders that blocked any view of a possible cave (would have been almost impossible for me to climb to alone anyway). On the west edge there are a lot of cracks and arches that offer some photographic intrigue, but there was nothing I would call a cave really. It's difficult for me to believe that the place I've found the most inspiration over the last several years has just melted away and doesn't appear to have a readily accessible replacement.

That is the beauty of glaciers, always in a constant state of change. This should be a interesting year for the glaciers around SC Alaska. We had a very good snow year up high and already some of the glaciers have responded. The Knik, for the first time in years, has surged forward and closed the gorge, something no one really thought it would ever do again. Unfortunetly, rapid, large scale surges, end up hurting the over-all health of the glacier.

I am sure the Mend has some secrets and surprises waiting for you.

Very interesting image. The ripples on the sand are nice and the earths shadow in the background against the mountains make for a nice composition. Ok, all Alaskans are encouraged to get out and share their images...I am truly inspired by scenes from our northernmost state.

Jack

Hi Carl-
What is the easiest way to get out the Knik Glacier? Jim Creek by ATV?
dt

David,
The best way is in the winter via skis or bike. You start at Hunter Creek, it is about ten miles. In the summer you need to go via Jim Creek and yes, ATV would probably be the easiest. It is very muddy and the trail is terrible, abused by 4wd and ATV users. The area is pretty lawless and if you get stuck, your vehicle will end up like the one I posted. This area is in need of serious attention by photographers. Locals are in a battle, fighting between protecting the area and leaving it as a "Mad Max Zone". Amazingly, those in favor of protection are winning. Visit www.knikriver.org

If anyone has any other questions or topics not related to Kent's fine image, than please start a new topic. Sorry Kent, I guess I started it.

Sorry Kent-
I did not mean to hijack your posting. It really is a great image. I have your site on my daily "watch list", always looking to see what new and exciting photos you post. You never disappoint, inspiring stuff.

ah, I did't even know there is an Alaska forum...
thanks for showing this. Verena and I used to hang out at Eagle Beach to rest and gain back some body fat back some ten years ago ( - no need to do this nowadays! ) in between seakayak trips to glacier bay, chichagof-jacobi and admirality isl. I even took a similar shot back than with sunset and low tide, but there was much more water left, then in this image. (although WE weren't really surprised, 'cause as an avid seakayaker one is more of a "check the tide tables" kinda guy...
again, thanks for posting!
Georg