A large portion of Central Washington is true high desert. What little vegetation that exists is sparse...and yet, even in such a harsh environment, there is a very unique sense of beauty and peace. One of the features that I find most appealing about this part of the state is it's very open vistas. You can literally see for miles. Sometimes, if you are caught in between "good" and "bad" weather, the sky can be dramatic like few other places on earth. This photo was taken during such a moment. Located in the Columbia Basin, the small town of Vantage rests at the river's edge, serving as an important stop for travelers and...perhaps more importantly, FISHERMEN. The region offers some of the finest fishing opportunities in the western half of the country!