Crystal Mill Photography

Marble, colorado

Crystal Mill is one of those places you see in photos and think, "I’ve got to shoot that someday."

But here’s what they don’t tell you: that trail is no joke. 

Even with 4x4, the road up is rough — narrow, rocky, and clinging to the edge of mountain passes. Add in camera gear, and you’ve got yourself a full-body workout with a side of adrenaline.

But I wasn’t just aiming for the usual shot from the overlook. I wanted something different — a view from the base of the river, where the waterfall overflow creates a second cascade if you time it just right.

To get this angle, I had to negotiate access, hike down the boulders, and wait patiently by the rushing water. The moment didn’t last long — just enough for a few frames before the second waterfall faded and the light shifted.

But I got it.

And this is the shot.

Crystal Mill with its full autumn glory, golden aspens glowing, water roaring, and that rustic wood structure clinging to the cliff like it always has.

I hope it brings a bit of wild determination and mountain magic into your space — and maybe even inspires your next adventure.