There is something very spiritual about Yosemite’s back country, and it should definitely be experienced often. However, some of the most incredible scenery can be captured right from the side of the road. I set out late one evening to capture star trails from one of Yosemite’s epic locations: Tunnel View. It was ideal for night photography because I could set up my shot and stargaze while the shutter was firing.

Keep in mind, the moon was out, so there was a decent amount of ambient light to fill the scene. I took a 23 minute exposure, which allowed enough light to showcase El Capitan, as well as Half Dome and Bridalveil Falls. The long exposure captured the earth’s rotation which creates the star trails. You’ll notice there is a small bright light part way up El Capitan. This is a set of rock climbers, spending the night on a portaledge.