HodgePodge Images: A Walk in the (winter) Woods with the Southeast Land Trust

 

On Wednesday, January 14th I gave a presentation at the Southeast Land Trust’s Burley Farm, showcasing a slideshow of photos from various SELT events. The focus was mainly on the Stonehouse Pond and Forest Properties in Barrington, NH. After the presentation, my host Derrick remarked, “so, your cross country ski on Saturday has turned into a hike on ice.” I had forgotten I signed up for a “Walk in the (Winter) Woods” at Stonehouse Forest with SELT. With another commitment—bowling with friends—scheduled later that afternoon, I managed to make it work, though I left the hike early.

The weather forecast the night before predicted a light coating to an inch of snow, though by the time I reached the parking lot, there were 3-4 inches and I had just passed a serious accident nearby. Earlier in the week, warm temperatures caused melting, leaving the trail icy with a layer of powdery snow. The group headed out equipped with Microspikes. Among the participants was a newcomer with a beautiful dog, who, unfortunately, was unfamiliar with proper trail dog etiquette (including a leash no longer than 6')

The snow, light and fluffy, resembled icing on the trees and rocks. It was fun to look for animal tracks, though most appeared to be squirrels.


Although I’ve hiked in either Stonehouse Pond or Stonehouse Forest properties at least a dozen times, I don't think I've ever walked the class 6 Marsh Road when it was frozen over the marsh. This gave me a little different perspective.




Shortly after heading west on the road from here the group stopped for a snack break. I took this opportunity to head back to the parking lot, but didn’t realize I was so far away. 


The woods were so beautiful that I had to stop a few times for pictures, and the roads were now clear when I left, so I made it to my next appointment with about 30 seconds to spare!











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