Saturday, January 25, 2014

Winter at Bernheim

The weather has been playing cruel tricks on us this winter. As I awoke this morning, there was more snow on the ground. Checking the radar online, it seemed the skies might clear in the afternoon. So off I went to Bernheim.

As I entered through the main gate, the road had not been plowed and had about four inches of snow on it. Only a few car tracks were imprinted in the snow so I made a few new ones. I made my way slowly until I reached the parameter road that leads around the entire lower section of Bernheim. The road to the left which takes you to Isaac's Cafe was closed, but the road to the right leading to the Pavilion was open. I captured a few images of Lake Nevin as you see in the first few images.

Fortunately, the skies cleared and blue could be seen through the clouds and eventually the sun peeked out as well. Just what I had hoped for. There were about 5 or 6 cars max at the Pavilion parking lot. Only the brave were venturing into Bernheim today. One person had made their way to the Pavilion as was evidenced by the tracks in the snow. It was beautiful walking around the Pavilion and checking out all of the snow covered trees and branches and snow laden bushes. As was expected Robins, Cardinals and a few Song Sparrows were foraging for food kicking up the snow and digging out so as to reach the ground and any food that might be hidden under the snow.

I visit Bernheim in all seasons and while I may be partial to Spring with it's gorgeous Japanese Magnolia blooms and blooming Crab Apple Trees and Fall with it's golds and reds and orange leaves, I am starting to have a fondness for Winter especially when the snow flies. There are so few visitors on days like today and I love that because it makes for a more personal feel when you are out in nature.

I thought I would leave you with this beautiful image of a Red Cardinal who allowed me to photograph him for a few minutes before he took off. He was in one of the beautiful craggy, moss covered trees that surround the Pavilion. What a beautiful walk in nature. ENJOY!

7 comments :

  1. 38F = 4Celsius, too cold to be outside for long, the Red Cardinal, stunning. snow, and bare branches are always super photos in the winter, leaves are not needed for great shots. Cheers, Jean.

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    1. Thanks for stopping by Jean. Hope you are warm down there. I agree, you don't need leaves to have beautiful photos. Carol

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  2. This is such a pretty place to walk and so much to see. I love the cardinal photo. Beautiful!

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    1. Thanks for stopping by Pamela. I love photographing Cardinals.

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  3. beautiful scenery, the second photo; the spread of the tree is amazing; I love the cardinal of course

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    1. One of my favorite trees at Bernheim. Huge Sycamore. Thanks for stopping by Carole.

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  4. I enjoyed your snowy visit, Carol. It's scenic in every season. The Cardinal is wonderful.

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