Great shots, you are right about the lens, a good zoom is all you need.
Absolutely stunning work!
Not much water but a very interesting place.
Great images of an interesting flower.
The petroglyphs look like clan markings. I see an eagle in one and salmon in another one.
If you are using Windows, go to the Microsoft web site and search for the Codec that reads raw image files. It's free, best price around.
I agree with Dusti, the second one is the original.
If you are in Lightroom just "reset" to the original. Many of us struggle with this, try them both with a print and see which one works for you.
Indeed, an excellent specimen.
Wonderful Milky Way shot.