Photo by sally king

Abert's Squirrels may be seen licking the newly-running sap of Boxelder trees.

THE NORM
Cold, snowy days intermix with warm sunny days. Heavy pollen in the air from blooming junipers can mean watery eyes and runny noses for many people. The Main Loop Trail is the only trail where snow is removed. Snow and ice remains on most other trails and turns to muddy muck by mid-afternoon. The ladders at Alcove House may remain closed due to safety concerns if it has been a snowy winter. The Cross-country ski trails still have plenty of snow but on warm afternoons can become slushy. Abert's Squirrels remain active and may be seen feeding on the newly-running sap of Boxelder trees. By late month, the Sandhill Cranes can be heard as they pass overhead migrating back north. Visitation is slow but may begin to pick up by President's weekend. On occasion the parking lots have filled over this holiday. Collection of the entrance fee is done at the visitor center instead of the entrance station. Interpretive programs are only offered occasionally.

photo by sally king

The cross-country ski trails still have adequate snow for winter activities.

FEBRUARY 2008
The ladders at Alcove House are currently open (02/18/08) but could close again if there is more snow. Skiing had been excellent at the Cross-country ski trails. Warmer daytime temperatures have made them slushy. The Falls Trail is in good shape above Lower Falls except for small icy patches in the morning and slush in the afternoon. The trail below Lower Falls was obliterated in some areas by another flashflood that occurred in January. The area near the Rio Grande is extremely muddy. Also near the Rio watch for a half dozen feral cows that have been occupying the area. Willows near the Rio should be blooming by President's Day weekend.  Abert's Squirrels are very active and have been seen eating Boxelder sap, a true sign that spring is coming.