We were ready for it, dog and me. I’d seen the forecast: semi-normal temps for the season to start, but they’d soon be plummeting. And accurate were those forecasts. It was 20° (F) out when I first checked, then 19°, then 18°—decided we should head out earlier than usual. Which we did.

And it was (as forecast) windy up there. Winds from the west, and gusting. I’d bundled up but still felt cold. Jack, meanwhile, didn’t seem the least miffed. Still, we hiked up the main trail in a hurry, through blowing snow.

After a quick warm-up in the hut, we continued down into the lee of the woods, and had a nice, comfortable time of it. Few birds (a robin down there), but no discomfort. Even back at the summit, the winds had died down a bit—temporarily. Turned out to be a lovely hike.

Now, tomorrow… We might have to wait until afternoon.

(Note: At 8 p.m. this evening, it’s –13° out, and gusty.)

Beech Hill List
Beginning at 7:22 a.m., I hiked all trails.

1. Black-capped Chickadee
2. American Crow** (v)
3. American Robin* (v)

Elsewhere

4. Northern Cardinal (v)

(v) Voice only
*Also elsewhere
**Voice only elsewhere
†First-of-year