If you would like to see and photograph the spectacular, fall colors of the leaves of Quaking Aspen trees, be sure to head to Alpine County, Calif., this weekend.
But don't delay: Those colors are currently at their peak and are well worth taking the time to see.
The "quakies" in this generral area are particularly gorgeous in the early morning or late afternoon sunlight.
Here's where to go:
Take a combination of U.S. 395, Nevada S.R. 88 and California S.R. 88, south from Carson City to the Hope Valley Area of California, a distance of about 35 miles.
The four best locations are:
1. Along S.R. 88 in Woodfords Canyon between Woodfords and Sorensen's Resort.
Some spectacular colors can be seen aall long the West Fork of the Carson River.
2. The area, along S.R. 88, from Sorensen's Resort to the junction of S.R. 89 to Lake Tahoe (Pickett's Junction).
The colors were awesome, last Sunday afternoon, in this specific area.
3. On the right side of S.R. 88, just before reaching the Blue Lakes Turnoff.
This is one of the most popular areas for photographers to park along the highway and take pictures.
Note: At those locations along S.R. 88, you can park anywhere along the highway, but be extremely careful of the high-speed traffic, whizzing past.
4. Where the dirt road to Crater Lake and Alpine Mine intersects S.R. 88.
This road is 2.0 miles past the Blue Lake Turnoff, as you drive toward Kit Carson Pass. Look for a small, partially paved road on your right that curves up a steep bank. Take that road. Travel about 50 yards. You'll cross a cattleguard and the paved road will become a dirt road.