Scriptures - To the Glory of God

"Beaver Dam"

July 2002, Hoover Wilderness, Eastern Sierra, California

I have counted approximately 12 small “waterfalls” leaking from the face of this exquisite creation. It is as though the structure was purposely engineered with this built-in strain-relief mechanism, assuring its longevity while holding back the waters of the pond. The equally impressive lodge of the architects of the dam is located just outside of the picture. This is the most beautiful beaver dam I have ever seen, and I owe a debt of gratitude to the critters that toiled so hard to build it. I never actually saw them, even though I have returned to this special place again and again. The emerald green waters of the pond are sublime, inducing within the visitor an overwhelming sense of serenity.

The hike through the Hoover Wilderness leading to this location is one of the most enjoyable I have ever been on. Beaver dams are numerous in this remote corner of the eastern Sierra, and I passed at least 4 of them on my way to this one. I prefer to hike this trail in early July, when springtime wildflower displays are at their fullest, adding glorious arrays of colors to an already divine landscape. Shot with a 4x5 large format camera using Velvia film.

Beaver DamBeaver PondCaliforniaEastern SierraHoover WildernessLee ViningLundy CanyonPeacefulcorbisscriptureshutterstock