We were surprised by this spectacular canyon soon after we began our return drive towards Ullapool from Applecross, on the western Scottish coast. The road climbed steadily from Applecross, passed through barren alpine country, and offered great views to the west toward Skye and other islands. The road leveled off near the high point as it arrived at the pass.

Much to our surprise, the terrain was suddenly entirely different on the other side. Instead of the gradual slope through open country, the road suddenly dropped into this gash of a canyon, switchbacking down the steep incline. Through the gap at the far end of the canyon we could see the bay, and beyond that more mountains rising in the distance.

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G Dan Mitchell is a California photographer and visual opportunist. His book, “California’s Fall Color: A Photographer’s Guide to Autumn in the Sierra” (Heyday Books) is available directly from him. Blog | Bluesky | Mastodon | Substack Notes | Flickr | Email

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