By: James Chow

Above Cascade Pass from Sahale Arm, North Cascades National Park. Clouds were building up on the west side of Cascade Pass and occasionally drifting eastward. I waited until a low clouds were in the left foreground while another cloud drifting in front of the mountain to the left was illuminated by sidelighting. Fuji G617, 105/8 Fujinon, B+W 81C MC, Velvia.

The main advantages of backpacking are not only to get away from the crowds, but also to see rare or unique scenery one can't find near the road. Everyone has seen and photographed the common sights near the road in national parks. Some parks are more conducive to photography near the road (e.g.,Yosemite,Yellowstone,Grand Teton) while others have very few access roads (Sequoia,Olympic). There is a slightly different approach to photography while backpacking, though. You have to select your equipment more carefully, keeping in mind you'll have to bring the essentials (food, shelter, clothing) for two or m...