Photos: A long-awaited snowy day

by Marlene Berlin

We just got our most substantial snowfall in two years. I wouldn’t have missed walking in it for anything.

I set out for Van Ness via Rock Creek Park trails, during a period that the Capital Weather Gang described as “light and polite.” A thin veneer of snow was mostly melting on sidewalks, but the streets were slick in some spots. A car coming up Davenport Street from Linnean Avenue couldn’t get enough traction and had to back up.

But I did not need to backtrack. I made it to an entrance to Western Ridge Trail, just south of Military Road, near the the parking lot. It was not too crowded.

But the trail, by 11:15 a.m., had many footprints from previous hikers.

The snow-covered fallen tree trunks and bark were picturesque.

But the showstopper was the dog in its new yellow boots. It shook each foot when it got out of the car, then marched on.

Another dog was making a fashion statement in an orange coat.

On my return trip, Connecticut Avenue sidewalks were clear for walkers on two legs and four.

And Shemali’s was ready in case anyone wanted to enjoy a bite outside, somewhat sheltered from the snow.