Aloft
Canadian Rockies Aerial Photography
About the Book
Now available in paperback, this astounding collection of photographs captures some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in North America.
There is a reason why the Canadian Rockies are some of the most photographed mountains in the world. Rugged peaks encircle glacier-fed lakes, rise up like protective walls around tree-filled valleys, and offer a stunning backdrop to open alpine meadows. They have been photographed from the valley bottoms, from the shores of famous lakes, and from the summits of prominent peaks. They are accessible by vehicle, boat, gondola, skis, and hiking boots. But a lucky few have photographed the Rockies from the air.
In the most comprehensive collection of aerial photos to date, Aloft: Canadian Rockies Aerial Photography by Paul Zizka gives the reader a unique bird’s-eye view of this prized mountain range. From vast glaciers to winding rivers, animal overpasses to lakes that look like brilliant spills of turquoise paint on the landscape, these images provide a rare look at mountains that are as grandiose from the skies as they are from their better-known vantage points.
Reviews
“Paul Zizka has always had a bird’s-eye view compared to most humans. He’s a man who lives in the clouds, often exploring the highest mountaintops and continuously searching for that unique, fresh, awe-inspiring perspective to present the photographic love of his life – the Canadian Rockies – to the rest of us. So it would only make sense that he would take the next logical step and grow wings for this incredible collection of aerials. There is no human better suited on the planet for the task of offering up this compelling vantage point of the peaks and valleys of the Rockies, almost all of which he has personally stood on or hiked among. This is an astounding collection and a must-have for any lover of the natural beauty of this planet.” —Dave Brosha, photographer, author of The Art of Misadventure, Tones of Grace, Southern Light and Northern Light
“There is much more that could be said about this photographic and aerial overview of the Canadian Rockies, but for those who have done many of the trips in the area, skated, skied, trekked, hiked and climbed many of the peaks, Aloft is a memory massager and reminder of the vast, compelling, immense and perennial appeal of the Canadian Rockies. Aloft is certainly worth the purchase and the photographs, descriptions and vividness of the tour a journey not to miss.” —Ron Dart, Clarion: Journal for Religion, Peace, and Justice
“In Aloft, Paul Zizka’s photography brings a fresh perspective on the Canadian Rockies for everyone, including those already fortunate enough to know them well. Whether it is the winding chain of the Vermilion Lakes, the spectacular peaks surrounding Moraine Lake or the familiar shores of Lake Louise, the aerial images in Aloft change the way we see these iconic Canadian scenes, only enhancing our sense of wonder at this inspirational landscape.” —Scott Forsyth, author of The Wild Coasts of Canada
“Drawn to the vertical appeal of the Canadian Rockies landscape, Paul Zizka has, over the past twenty years, carried us along with him on his hikes and climbs to some of the most spectacular vantage points in the world. It would be tempting to ask what is left to see, until we experience the aerial perspective on these mountains in Aloft. Aerial photography, especially in mountains, is challenging for photographer and pilot alike. The rushing winds and biting cold at high elevations quickly affect a camera’s lens and a photographer’s fingers, not to mention the noise of the aircraft, radio headset communication and the constrained workspace. Despite these challenges, Paul has beautifully captured stunning scenes of familiar and lesser known locations in Canada’s beloved Rockies as only someone with his extensive knowledge of this landscape could.” —Scott Forsyth, author of The Wild Coasts of Canada
“In Aloft, celebrated Canadian nature photographer Paul Zizka takes us into the skies to provide a fresh, dazzling perspective of some of the Canadian Rockies’ most iconic locations, including Lake Louise, the Three Sisters and Mount Assiniboine. Photographers and Rockies enthusiasts alike will enjoy this feast for the eyes.” —John E. Marriott, author of The Kootenay Wolves and photographer of What Bears Teach Us and The Pipestone Wolves