The bridge over Otter Creek – trailhead of the Carton Trail off of the Munger Trail within Jay Cooke State Park.

A chilly start to the day had hardpack on trails solid. Wind out in the open and snow in the forecast.

We arose a little before 6:00 am awaiting the first rays of spring. My intention was to take a photo of the morning sun but it was the buds thqt caught my interest.

The migration of birds this spring has me excited and the newest arrival to the feeder has been the House Wren – audio of its song included in the post.

This day saw shorter treks outdoors so I thought to include some photos from the within Oldenburg looking out toward the park.

Light snow and not much wind this morning brings to mind layered clothing for our treks today. Breaking out the boots. We now have 12+ hours of sunlight.

Winter has yet to yield to spring. It was a gray start to the day that led to a heavy wet snow – its been that sort of year.

It is 7:06 AM at the moment of preparing this post. The moon is over the south ridge and the rising sun is casting early rays of dawn. The Spring Equinox occurs March 20 this year of 2023 but we reach even-steven daylight sometime on the 17th of March.

Returning from a trek on Munger Trail this morning. The trail had been groomed late last night or early this morning and with sub-zero temps, Munger Trail was like walking on a city sidewalk.

We are approaching the spring equinox and the beginnings of bird migration. Weekend saw another foot of snow.