When traveling in a target-rich environment for photography, be prepared to immediately take a photo. This is always a good axiom to remember.

On a return trip from the Yakima area via Cougar, I was treated to blue skies and sunshine.

I was also treated to Mountain Sheep, Elk and beautiful views of the glaciated mountains of Goat Rocks, early morning light on Mt. Rainier and close-up views of Mt. St. Helens.

Before beginning the drive, I put a telephoto lens on the DSLR. Now I was prepared for anything.

Besides getting some nice photos along the way, I had the privilege of seeing some of the best the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

Cow Roosevelt Elk

Lenticular clouds forming above Goat Rocks

Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep enjoying a taste of the highway

Mt. St. Helens (visible ash blowing from a small avalanche)

Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep on the run

Early morning light on Mt. Rainier

Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep safe and sound

Mt. St. Helens