February 9, 2025: Winter Conditions at the Lake

It was a hectic week for me so I didn't get out as much as usual, but I did fit in one beautiful ski trip early Friday morning after about 6" of snow overnight.  I was the first one on the trail that morning so I had a perfect blanket of white in front of me the whole way.

Except for the occasional animal track.  Several animals had been out before me, and they often took advantage of the human-produced trail to make their passage easier.  

The animals are smart enough to follow the trails.

With deep snow I couldn't determine who the early morning hunter was, but based on its timing and route it was probably a fox even though it doesn't show the usual straight and orderly track.

The first part of the trip up the south-facing hill was well protected from the wind; the combination of sun and calm made for a peaceful setting.

The occasional wind gust provided a glittering snow shower in the sunlight.

As is often the case, the Lakes Region was right on the boundary between stormy weather to the north and clearing to the south.  From Crockett's Ledge looking south the sky was clearing.  The building northwest wind after the front passed was already whipping up the dry snow from the trees where it collected overnight.

As I gained the ridge near the north-facing White Mountain Ledge I could feel the cold settling in as the wind was now making a direct affront on the ledge. 

The sun dimmed approaching the north end of the ridge.

Reaching the ledge, the usual expansive view of the White Mountains was completely obscured by a fierce squall.

A total white-out to the north.

I had fairly short visit there for obvious reasons.

Travelling from the trailhead up to the ledge is mostly climbing, but that means the way back down is a lot of fun on skis.

And as soon as I got down off the ridge, the sun was back and the sky was once again blue.  

It was a perfect winter day on what is turning out be a real New England winter for a change - we woke up this morning to another eight inches of fresh powder!

And don't forget today is the last day of the Backyard Bird Count if you want to participate.  You don't even have to leave your warm home!