McIntyre Ridge Sunrise

Succor Creek State Natural Area, Owyhee Canyonlands

McIntyre Ridge is a 4,600 foot tall Basaltic ridge located directly east of Eastern Oregon’s Succor Creek State Natural Area. This stunning ridge and its soaring basalt spires can be viewed from the natural area which includes approximately 20 primitive camping sites, pit toilets and access to Succor Creek. The camping area does not offer potable water or electricity. The area is popular amongst rock hounds who are allowed to collect limited numbers of Thundereggs, the official state rock of Oregon which are common in the vicinity.

Our visit to Eastern Oregon also included stays in the Leslie Gulch State Natural Area, as well as the Owyhee Canyonlands areas of Chalk Basin and Iron Point. The entire region is beautiful, remote and largely undisturbed, making this amazing part of Oregon a prime candidate to receive protected Wilderness status.

I was fortunate to capture this beautiful sunrise image of McIntyre Ridge under windless conditions with enchanting clouds overhead. The vertical spires of igneous basalt vibrantly illuminated by morning’s first light will make for a gorgeous fine art landscape photograph. I should also note that the intricate and colorful details of the large prints of this image need to be seen to be believed!