With Friday night temperatures approaching zero, we knew we had run into winter.

The ride north was perfect. Blue skies and light traffic made it an enjoyable time. We wondered where we would see our first snow on the ground. That question was answered, but not for a while.

One of my favorite sign posts. I have been through this stretch of road so many times and in all kinds of weather and have yet to experience any such winds. What it does mean is that Franconia Notch is soon ahead and the "Great North Woods".

Thanks to the clear skies, the mountains put on a great show till the sun went down. All the tops were covered in snow making for high hopes. Franconia Notch is one of New Hampshire's best destinations. Even the passing of the "Old Man of The Mountain" can't dampen your spirit here. Cannon Mountain along with Mounts Lafayette and Lincoln ring the valley, each displaying it's own beauty. Most of the bears I have seen in New Hampshire are in this vicinity. So keep an eye out for wildlife.

Snow fell on us most of Saturday into Sunday. Night photos with a flash is always a guessing game as to what you will get. These one makes me think I am sitting in a glass of beer.

6-8 inches of light fluffy snow made the weekend.  It seemed that at least here winter had set in. 

No trip to the "Meadow"  would be complete without a hike on "Elmer's Loop" This 2 - 3 mile loop takes you across some of our valley's toughest terrain.  Mink Brook runs down the middle of the loop and holds wild Brook trout. Moose can often be seen or heard crashing through the woods ahead of you. They can be a beautiful sight to see but don't get too close. Ravens croak at you as they pass over head and the sudden whirl of the grouse ,as it takes off next to you, can make you jump.

                                                                                                    bridge design by Neverable Construction Co.

Mink Brook Bridge sends you into "Mirkwood"

Mar-E is no stranger to the deep woods.

Cecropia and Promethea moth cocoons were abundant in the valley this year. They are large silk moths and quite beautiful to see. Lots of specimens for the spring hatching! Can't wait to see the hatching.

As night was falling a shortcut across the beaver dam seemed in order. Just don't fall in when you jump the gaps. Alas, we had to go back down south and our extended autumn. Which sure saves on the heating bill! A beautiful rainbow (or sundog) around the sun guided us back home.

All photos by the authors

Story by "Elmer & Mar-E"