Two primary storms have left about a foot of snow cover. This is just about the maximum for snow-shoe-less travel. The temperatures have varied greatly and have converted most snow cover into ice, especially on driveways.
Murphy can negotiate the foot of snow but goes into hopping mode when he wants to move at a pace quicker than me. We have stayed on the local trail which has been packed down by a transit of a snow mobile last week.
In the large image at left, the trail toward the lake is shown (in the background is bridge Alpha).
Bridge Charlie near the big bog
Deer bedding site
Our recons along the trail revealed uncountable tracks from deer and other creatures. These tracks are everywhere and one will find places where deer have rested or slept.
In preparation for winter, the water and dam authorities around our region open the dams to let the lakes drain. With a spring and summer of drought, the draining did not take long.