A harlequin duck rides the whitewater river from a sheltered foreground pool. Its chestnut flanks and crisp white head markings stand out against the dark reflected trees. Small ripples spread from the breast while its body sits low in the water. Mossy river rocks divide this calm pocket from the stronger current just behind it.

Above the bird, silver cascades descend through a succession of black stone ledges. Water spills over rounded edges and gathers briefly before dropping again. Wet surfaces catch thin highlights, while thick green moss clings to the upper faces of the rocks. A single orange leaf rests near the lower edge, giving the expansive scene a small seasonal detail.

A forest waterfall occupies a narrow opening in the distance. Tall conifers climb both sides of the river, their darker near branches giving way to pale silhouettes in the mist. The tall framing follows the river uphill from the duck to the falls. Water, stone and forest remain connected throughout the view, making the small bird part of a much larger moving habitat.