Cascade Springs is a large artesian spring north of the Mt. Timpanogos Wilderness Area and along the Alpine Loop Scenic Backway. Seven million gallons of water a day flow down a series of limestone terraces and pools among lush vegetation. The short half-mile nature trail wraps around the natural springs and streams with bridges, boardwalks, and paved pathways. Crystal clear waters make it easy to spot trout that inhabit the pools. Interpretive signs along the pathways explain the geology of this small natural wonder. This is an enjoyable destination for families and hikers of all ages. Ample parking is available and public vault restrooms are onsite.

The above text is from Heber Valley Attractions

This was my favorite Autumn spot this year. The lead image that follow are all from the last week of September or first week of October 2022.

These images were taken about an hour after at sunrise from the main trail where a bridge crosses over the springs.

It is imperative for no direct light to hit the water or the contrast level between sunlight water and the trees is too hot to handle. 

Feature Image Details

• EOS R5 Mirrorless Camera
• Canon 16-35MM F4 L Lens
• 0.7 seconds ISO 100 F11
• Focal length 19mm

Focus Stacking

As usual on my landscape images, most of these are focused stacked. That means I took at least one shot of the foreground, middle ground, and background to keep everything sharp. Then I blended them together. 

Additional Images 

The above image was taken the first moment light hit the water about an hour or so after sunrise. The light was barely skimming the water filtered through some trees. A minute later the light was a direct hit on the water and the shot was gone.

You can walk all the trails easily in 30 minutes. But I fell in love with this the springs and returned for hours several days in a row. 

Morning light is different than afternoon light. And on one day I spent hours photographing a pair of moose that made an appearance for at least an hour one afternoon. Moose images coming up next.

Tips

• Polarizers help. They lengthen the shutter speed giving smoother, more pleasant-looking water. 
• Focus stacking and longer shutter speeds necessitate use of a tripod. But if you goal is just a pleasant hike, that’s OK too. This is a beautiful place just to see and enjoy. 
• Nearly always, bright overcast is better for moving water. Second best is shade. Sometimes weak light filtering through makes a dramatic image as in the image above. But full is nearly always a killer. 

Equipment

Those interested in my equipment and recommendations can find it here: Mish’s Equipment List.

Previous Related Posts

• Cascade Springs, Utah Scenic Byway, Post #1
• Cascade Springs, Utah Scenic Byway, Post #2

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Mike “Mish” Shedlock