I saw it as we drove up the canyon and became immediately enchanted. I watched it, photographed it, for as long as I could.
Nature creates amazing beauty in our landscapes. The halo stayed around the sun much of the time we hiked.
Thin clouds veiled the suns intensity and gave it an ethereal look. The halo is created by ice crystals in the upper atmosphere, cold air aloft, and it's one reason our air is free of inversion.
And, the halo means a storm is coming. Since it's only February, I say let it snow.
Great photos! I love sundogs in all of their forms. We had a lot of the prismatic ones at sunset in Novemeber / December always a bit to the right of the sun. A vertical strip of a rainbow. So beautiful.
Posted by: Manise | February 20, 2013 at 05:22 AM
SO awesome. I just love these photos, Margene. I'm so glad you were out to enjoy the day in all its wonderful-ness!
Posted by: Kym | February 20, 2013 at 05:51 AM
Pretty spectacular!
Posted by: Cheryl S. | February 20, 2013 at 08:42 AM
Those are beautiful pictures. I don't believe we get the ice crystals around the sun here in Middle Earth. We get them around the moon, but not the sun. Thank you for sharing them!
Posted by: CindyCindy | February 20, 2013 at 10:29 AM
Very cool sundogs photo! :)
Posted by: Chris | February 20, 2013 at 01:08 PM
Oh, those are such inspiring pictures from your hike. I hope you have many more beautiful adventures. xo
Posted by: Sarah | February 20, 2013 at 01:47 PM
Beautiful Sundog! That is the nicest one I have ever seen. Your photos are always lovely - a pictorial treat!
Posted by: Pat L | February 20, 2013 at 04:20 PM
Really lovely! It is only February, but almost March, and I'm READY FOR SPRING!!
;)
Posted by: Vicki | February 20, 2013 at 04:22 PM
Woo Hoo!
Posted by: Cookie | February 20, 2013 at 10:46 PM
Awesome photos!
Posted by: Carole | February 21, 2013 at 05:35 AM
Great shots Margene! We'll be getting another foot where I live Saturday to Sunday. Bring it on!
Posted by: Patty | February 21, 2013 at 10:42 AM