Enjoying the deep January snow: a photo essay.

Heavy snow falling on a favourite birch tree. January 6

The New Year began with snow and continued with snow and then more snow. The deepest locally for fifteen years. Walking quickly became difficult, the soft snow shin to knee deep. Snowshoes and skis were called for and I've been using both. Skis are great out in the open, snowshoes in the confined depths of the forest.

Just a smattering of snow on New Year's Day. 

I've taken the camera out every day. Here's a collection of pictures from the snowy start to 2026. All taken locally (some in the garden). With conditions like this there's no need to travel any distance. This wonderland is accessible from the front door.

The snow starts to build up. January 2.

The forest turning white. January 2.

Time for snowshoes. January 3.

Icy beard. January 3.

Changing light. The same scene at 2.10pm and 3.40pm. January 4.

Robin. The birds have been very hungry. Feeders filled several times a day. January 4.

Hungry roe deer eating seeds. Two blackbirds waiting their turn. January 4.

Heavy snow falling. January 6.

Time for skis. January 7

Drifting mists, mysterious forests. January 7

Mist sweeps over the forest. January 7

Sunshine! The Cromdale Hills visible for the first time. January 8

The favourite birch gathers more snow. January 9.

A cluster of birches.

And for January 10 a little ski tour video.