Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Winter on the Blue Trail

I haven't done the Blue Trail at Whiting Road much since I started walking.  Frankly, all Summer and Fall I thought it was too easy, not enough of a challenge.  But, with the deep snow, I decided that I had better test out my Winter walking skills on an easy trail, before I attempted anything harder.

Walking in the Winter, you notice the lack of color.  White and shades of brown and black are about all you see.


Someone had been cross country skiing there, and I followed the tracks.  It was only after I got home that Isobelle's Lady told me that was a mistake.  Apparently, you're not supposed to walk in the tracks, because you mess them up for the next skier who comes along.  Sorry, I'll know better next time.
With all of the colors so muted, the bittersweet was a welcome break of color.
As were the blue privet berries, and these nightshade berries.

But, the snow was the story, covering everything.


I didn't have too hard a time, walking the Blue trail.  Next to tackle the Orange trail, and the Red trail.  But, for those, I'll make sure I have my brand new trekking poles along with me.

12 comments:

My Mind's Eye said...

Hi Louise...
I'm not a big fan of winter but I am a big fan of walking in and about nature. I wish I could walk those trails with you.
What wonderful sights you are seeing.
I actually enjoying the bareness of winter. The red berries are so pretty.I had a few cranberries left over from the scones. I put them in the suet feeder they birds are loving it.
Sounds like you are breaking in your boots.
I will keep posted on the yarn project. I'm thinking about a scarf.....
Warm wishes,
Cecilia and Madi

TexWisGirl said...

And watch out for those cross-country skiers! :)

Jim said...

Beautiful walk on that trail, Louise. Amazing how we will jump at the colour in the winter. Nice photos.
Yes, those poles will be of great assistance in the snow.....actually we use ours all year round....good for a light toning of the upper body.
Look forward to the other two trails.
Jim

Sharon said...

Nice pictures, Louise, I get a calm and quiet feeling from them. Thank You!!!

Jacqueline Donnelly said...

Just beautiful! How vividly those berries stand out against the snow. And how lucky you are to have so much snow. Out here in Saratoga County we have just a dusting.

Terry said...

The bittersweet photo looks just like Christmas to me.

barefootheart said...

I love the subtle grey shades of winter, so restful. Like resting our eyes, ready for the return of summer's riot of colour. Those berries sure make wonderful accents!

Tina said...

The pictures are great. Love the bittersweet one. Just perfect!

Inger said...

Beautiful pictures. I have an old bamboo ski pole I use when I walk where it is slippery or steep. It still works great. The snow is beyond wonderful and I admire your determination to get out there and walk.--Inger

GLORIA'S STORY said...

Your pictures are so pretty and the walk must be very peaceful. BUT, I know it is cold, and I don't like cold. Brrrrrrrrrrrrrr. How cold is it? You be careful on your walk around.

Laughing Orca Ranch said...

That trail is lovely. Wish I could have joined you. I, too enjoy hiking in the winter. The starkness reminds me of an Ansel Adams photograph. Your photos are beautiful. The berries remind me of colorful ornaments on Christmas Trees.

Are the trails specifically for x-country skiers? There are a couple like that in the mountains above Santa Fe, and they are off limits to hikers during the winter, for the reason you mentioned. But on the other mixed-use trails, x-country skiers just have to deal with hiker's footprints.

Aren't trekking poles wonderful? As I've gotten older, and especially after my ACL replacement surgery, I never hike without them, especially on rocky or steep trails and on snowy trails. Now I know why horses are much more sure-footed then we are....an extra two legs! :)

~Lisa

KB said...

Hi Louise,

Thanks for visiting my blog! I like yours - we have a lot in common... our love of getting into the woods is one thing!

You mentioned considering a wildlife camera for yourself. It is a totally fun hobby - I am addicted. I'd suggest checking out trailcampro.com for lots of information and help choosing one. You can also phone them (number is on website), and they'll tell you everything that you want to know. They are one of the very best companies that I've encountered in *any* business.

I have a link to them on my blog sidebar...

Let me know how it goes if you decide to try a cam!