I took a hike along the Lower Yahara River Trail last week. We're having mild weather lately in much of the Midwest--mild for us, anyway. The day of my hike, the high was around 40F, and I actually felt warm, wearing my parka and winter boots.
I know some of these photos look cold, but it was very comfortable, after weeks of below-normal temperatures in October and November.
Part of the trail includes a long boardwalk bridge with excellent views of Lake Waubesa. It's now one of the favorite hiking/walking areas of many Madison and McFarland residents. I've posted about this trail before, showing what it looks like in autumn.
The view was rather misty, likely because of evaporation from the warmer air.
I was surprised to see these people setting up for ice fishing, as it was rather late in the day.
Waterfowl tend to congregate in the area where warm, moving water empties into the lake from the Yahara River.
Were these ducks finding fish, or other tasty morsels, just below the surface of the slushy ice?
The view to the southwest portended a pretty sunset, with light clouds on the horizon.
Higher in the sky, the moon stood watch over the beautiful day. It felt great to move comfortably outdoors, and to get some much-needed fresh air.
This hike looks heavenly to me. I can't imagine ice fishing. Such a slow cold hobby. Of course I would eat the results. ;)
ReplyDeleteDuring the protests in 2011/12, we said Wisconsinites are so stubborn we fish through the ice, as proof we would not give up our fight against our ghastly gov.
DeleteLisa: It was a warm day, and today was very mild, too. It felt like October. I was outside raking for a couple of hours. Linda and Lisa: I grew up near Green Bay, where we used to regularly drive out on Shawano Lake in our car in January and February! I can't imagine ice fishing either, but it is amazing that the ice gets so thick!
DeleteWe had friends over for brunch on Sunday and everyone wanted a garden tour and then stood around talking on the deck. Lovely weather if a bit disconcerting.
ReplyDeleteYes, I was out again today, Linda. I couldn't believe how warm it was. And my Daffodils and several other plants are starting to poke out of the ground. Oh dear! I hope they'll survive when the cold really hits. Or maybe we'll have an early spring!
DeleteBeautiful scenery, although I can't imagine 40F feeling warm!
ReplyDeleteI know--I guess it's your perspective and where you're coming from. After 20s and low 30s for a couple of months, believe me--40s feel warm! Especially when you wear a parka, warm pants, and warm boots. It's really quite comfortable. :)
DeleteAh packed up like a teddy bear, maybe I would be warm at 4C.
DeleteYes, with the appropriate gear it's not bad--especially on a sunny day with no wind. Much better than 0F/-18C and colder, which happens here often during the winter.
DeleteLooks like a wonderful place to take a stroll - I love walking along boardwalks! Our weather has been MUCH better lately too, with highs just above freezing on most days, which is actually seasonal for a change ;)
ReplyDeleteIt's a great place to walk, Margaret! Sounds like you had below-normal temps in November, too? It's weird--almost like November was December, and now December is November or even late October. We had a high in the low 50s the other day! Crazy!
DeleteA tantalizing view of your corner of the world, Beth. So different from mine except for the temperature. P. x
ReplyDeleteThanks, Pam. Yes, this great country of ours is very diverse! :)
DeleteOh, gosh! It looked so cold! My feet are chilled from just looking at the pictures.
ReplyDeleteJeannie@GetMeToTheCountry
I know--the photos look very cold, especially looking out over the lake. But it actually was quite comfortable that day. And my feet were warm in my lined winter boots!
DeleteI think I need some lined winter boots...to wear in the house also!
DeleteI agree, fresh air is so therapeutic! We too have been having temps in the 40s (low 40s) ... when it's calm, that feels really warm.
ReplyDeleteYes, indeed. I was out raking leaves today (the ones I didn't get to before ;-) ), and it felt so comfortable. Strange for December, but comfortable.
DeleteBeautiful place, beautiful moon...
ReplyDeleteIt is, Endah. It was a beautiful afternoon. Warmer than "normal."
DeleteBeautiful! We plan on taking a hike Friday night. The weather should be mild for this time of year. I hope it is clear, so the moon can shine bright.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy! That will be a great way to spend time together. :)
DeleteIt looks like a gorgeous walk. I love to walk in that temperature range, it's perfect. The moon shot is a perfect ending!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Tina. It's definitely refreshing--especially when there's no wind, on a sunny day. :)
DeleteLooks like a beautiful trail for a contemplative hike. When I think of ice fishing, I think of Madison. I hope the ice is thick enough.
ReplyDeleteFunny that you mention that, Jason. Lake Mendota has already frozen, then thawed, then froze, then thawed. It's that kind of winter--doesn't seem safe to be out on the ice.
DeleteStunning winter scenery. Winter has its compensations.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Chloris. Yes, it can be very pretty...and I almost don't mind it, if it doesn't get too cold.
DeleteBeautiful photos!
ReplyDeleteHappy Holidays
May 2019 will be full of joy, health and love, for you and you loved ones.
Best wishes
Maria de
Divagar Sobre Tudo um Pouco
Hi Maria: Thank you! Happy Holidays to you, as well! Best wishes for the year ahead!
DeleteI wish you a magical and wonderful Christmas with your family and friends.
ReplyDeleteGreetings from Salamanca.
Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!
DeleteThis mild December January after cool October, November
ReplyDeletemakes me wonder if this is our early pre spring .. .
It certainly has been different.
Nice views and walking trails . . .