Sioux Falls Twilight Wateralls

Blue hour brings a beautiful mood to Falls Park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where the Big Sioux River rushes over layers of rugged pink quartzite. I captured this scene with a long exposure, turning the cascading water into smooth, silky ribbons as it flows across the textured rock. The surrounding buildings were glowing with their evening lights, adding warmth and interest to the cool blue tones of twilight.

One of the most distinctive features in this view is the historic Queen Bee Turbine House to the left, illuminated against the darkening sky. Behind it, you can see a peak of the remains of the Queen Bee Mill, connecting the natural beauty of the waterfalls with an important piece of Sioux Falls history. The mill was constructed between 1879 and 1881 as a large water-powered flour mill, but a fire in January 1956, reportedly caused by lightning, destroyed much of the structure. Today, the remaining ruins serve as a reminder of the area's industrial past.

Falls Park covers more than 128 acres just north of downtown and is one of the city's most recognizable destinations. Between the flowing river, distinctive quartzite formations, historic ruins, illuminated buildings, and peaceful blue-hour light, there is so much to photograph here. I especially love how this long exposure captures the movement of the water while preserving the character and history surrounding the falls.

This photo was taken by Jennifer White with Timeless Moments Photography. All images are copyrighted Timeless Moments Photography/Jennifer White. All rights reserved.