Winter weather has taken a strong hold over the Northern Maine. Three strong storms have left deep powder in the woods. Snow has a tendency of bringing new beauty to our surroundings. What once seemed like a lifeless pre-winter landscape now carries new vibrancy. With each branch of pine, spruce, birch, and cedar that is weighted down with fresh layers of snow, new characteristics develop. Winter is freeing in the woods. Hunters have laid down the rifles of fall and most woodsmen their saws. The woods where I live is open for exploration and that is today's mission. 

Snow is falling heavy this afternoon and with temperatures below freezing, I throw on a Woolrich Jacket and Filson Tin Cloth pants and head for the woods. With adequate base layers, warmth isn't an issue. Muck Boots add a knee-high layer of waterproof protection in the cold. Each knee-deep step forward in the snow creates a clear path of travel on an undisturbed trail. Snow storms have a way of creating a single color-scheme. An otherwise blue sky, turns pale grey while Mother Nature transitions to pure white. As I glance around me at the trees, spruce needles act as tiny fingers grabbing at the falling snow flakes. Spruce cones lay untouched from winter, beneath heavy boughs of snow.

Freshly fallen snow on these branches is always a refreshing drink. Reminiscent of childhood, I admit to scooping a couple handfuls of snow to rehydrate. Approaching my destined hilltop, I am awarded a great view of a small Northern Maine town. The falling snow almost creates a white-out beyond the treeline. On the hike back, out of breath, but running fine on time, I decide to stop once more for a handful of snow. Now that's fresh from the source.

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About the Author

Rhon Bell, an outdoor enthusiast, spends his time exploring the Maine Woods and documenting his journeys.

Growing up in Aroostook County, he embraced the outdoor lifestyle at a young age. Living today near Portland, he spends weekends and week-long adventures hiking New England summits, canoeing the historic Maine waterways, and ice fishing for lake trout.

Follow the journey as Window to the Woods discovers new destinations, and check out his other blog, Backwoods Plaid.

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