The Crystal Mill

Location: Marbel, CO

Tucked deep into the canyons near Marble, Colorado, lies one of the state’s most iconic landmarks—Crystal Mill. Though widely known as a mill, this historic structure was actually a powerhouse used to support a now-lost mining operation. It clings dramatically to a rocky outcrop above the Crystal River, surrounded by golden aspens and steep canyon walls. It's a place that looks frozen in time.

I set out on a guided journey with the Crystal River Jeep Tour, winding along rugged backroads that followed the river. The deeper we traveled, the more vibrant the landscape became—fall foliage bursting in golds and oranges. We finally reached the site, and it was just as striking as I imagined.

But capturing this image wasn't as simple as showing up.

The entire area, including the ghost town of Crystal, is privately owned and maintained, and access to the riverbank is restricted. With this being such a popular spot, dozens of visitors lined the viewpoint—each hoping to grab their version of the perfect shot.

I waited patiently, scanning the light, watching shadows move across the canyon. Eventually, the scene aligned: no tourists in frame, soft light glowing across the log structure, and the river below rushing in perfect harmony.

I raised my camera and took the shot.

This photo, Crystal Mill, is more than just a landscape—it's a window into Colorado’s past, and a reminder of the craftsmanship and tenacity that built the West.

Every piece from Riley Clark Fine Art ships free and fully insured within the United States. Each order is made to order, inspected by hand, and packaged with care to ensure it arrives in perfect condition.

• Fine Art Paper prints are carefully rolled with acid-free protective sheets, then secured inside heavy-duty, crush-resistant tubes to prevent creasing or bending during transit.

• Framed and Canvas prints are wrapped in multiple layers of protective foam and corner guards before being boxed in double-walled cartons for maximum safety.

• Metal prints are packaged using padded spacers and custom-fit materials to keep them secure. For larger metal pieces, custom-built wood crates are used to provide additional protection and ensure stability throughout shipment.
  

Every shipment is fully insured from the moment it leaves the studio until it arrives safely at your door. In the rare event that your artwork is damaged during shipping, I will replace it at no cost to you. No returns required, no hassle — just a genuine guarantee that your art will arrive exactly as intended.

Your artwork should reach you the same way it left the studio: protected, beautiful, and ready to display for years to come.

Each piece is made to order, handcrafted with care, and created using archival materials. Estimated arrival dates shown at checkout already include these production timelines.

• Production Time: 2–3 business days
• Printed on museum-grade materials and inspected for color and quality before shipping.

Every piece is made to order, inspected by hand, and packaged for safe delivery.

If your artwork arrives damaged or with a production flaw, I’ll replace or remake it at no cost.

Because each print is custom-made, returns aren’t accepted — however, exchanges for preference or sizing can often be arranged within 14 days.

Please reach out and I’ll do my best to accommodate.