We do not get much in the way of great photo opportunities for clouds in the Las Vegas area. Seems the majority of days are cloud-free and blue skies? So, I could not pass up the chance to capture a spectacular display one Saturday morning in late May. The opening video provides the best image that I have taken recently. When I posted the picture on social media, I felt the need to add the caption, “Yes, the real sky!”

The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is located just west of the city and only about a 15-minute drive from my home. While I go there several times a week, I seldom take an extended hike on one of the many trails. Some of the trails can be more of a scramble than a hike and not so easy with camera equipment. I have a few bumps and bruises from minor falls in previous outings.

I start a chat with another visitor this morning and get convinced to try this easy trail so off I go. As advertised, it is relatively simple with very little elevation change and mostly...