Photos: Rock Creek Park after the season’s first snowfall

by Marlene Berlin

Last Friday, the first measurable snowfall of the season dusted the region with around an inch of snow. And what a welcome sight it was.

I set out that morning, eager to enjoy the beauty of the falling snow in Rock Creek Park. My route took me down Davenport Street and across Broad Branch Road, where I picked up a social trail up a very steep slope.

Eventually, I was on level ground.

My steps intermingled with another animal’s prints. Perhaps a rabbit?

I emerged at Picnic Area #13…

And passed an eye-catching sculpture of snow and the roots of a fallen tree.

I walked by the Rock Creek Nature Center and to a trail that starts beyond the horse stable and corral.

The Nature Center

Black Horse Trail

The walk along Rock Creek on Black Horse Trail was quiet. Hardly anyone was about. And the snow made everything look magical.

I did encounter some joggers where the trail ended at Beach Drive and Broad Branch Road. They did not let the snow slow them down as they passed.

My return trip took me through the Soapstone Valley. Snow-covered boulders along the creek still have the capacity to stop me in my tracks.

What a wonderful world we have so close to us in Forest Hills and Van Ness. And with more snow in the forecast, I might be enjoying another snowy walk very soon.