Well this was one of the toughest choices ever. There really were so many wonderful, intriguing, unique and well crafted images that perfectly captured the theme of this contest.
Honorable mentions are
This image caught my eye immediately. Loved the moody, misty scene
Brads image of the Tree falls is just stunning. I would love to find these falls myself. The only critique I have is the over exposure in the sky. I would like to have seen this brought down a little as it diverts the eye away from those magical little falls.
Great scene of a moody swamp. The cypress trees and their reflections offer a different perception of Forest. Nicely captured
Arnie competed with himself on this one! Another great image from this forest
3rd Place - Bartosz Kotulski - Derroura
The meandering moss lined path leads your right into the deepest depths of this forest.
Beautifully captured scene
2nd Place - goes to Terry Bowker - Muir Woods
Loved the very subtle sepia treatment on this image.The tones from the deepest shadows to the brightest highlights are held gracefully. The composition really brings you into the image. I felt like I was about to take that next step into the forest.
The near/far depth of field and the retreating line of trees really pulled me into the scene. Perfect focus throughout!
First Place - Congratulations to Arnie Peterschmidt for his image Rays and Ferns
Wonderful composition, exposure and detail. Made me want to be there. Exquisitely captured