Snow Festoons Roxy Ann (Southwest Oregon) 15-Mar-2021

Hiking 7 comments

We guess that snow was more common in Southern Oregon at lower altitudes back in the day. In the last few years, however, it seems you need to be above 6,000 feet (1,828 m) to have a chance at serious, lasting snow. At just 3,573 ft (1,089 m), nearby Roxy Ann Peak rarely qualifies for a snowy mantle of any depth or longevity. Last night, however, a powerful, wet, cold front swept through, leaving 6 inches (15 cm) of fluffy white stuff on Roxy. It won’t last long. But, anticipating it’s arrival, and verifying same from our back porch early this morning, allowed us to speed up there to enjoy it while it lasts. Snow, when you don’t have to shovel it, dig your car out of it, or otherwise involuntarily mess with it, is truly enjoyable. And it really does give Roxy and the surrounding area a whole different look and feel. 🙂

Historic sign at the upper parking lot
Starting up the Ponderosa Trail
Looking north from the Ponderosa Trail
More than a dusting of snow this time
A very temporary winter wonderland
A corridor of snowy oaks on the Ponderosa Trail
Almost to the summit
Looking west from the look-over just down from the summit
Snow on Branches I
Down the Manzanita Trail
Hurrying down before the snow starts melting and falling on us
Looking southwest toward cloud-shrouded Mount Ashland
Snow on Branches II
Snow-cover rocks on the Manzanita Trail
Looking west out over Medford
Looking east toward Mount McLoughlin lost in the clouds
Snow on Branches III
Back to the parking lot on the Loop Road
Snowy Roxy Ann Peak (note antenna tower) from the Loop Road
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7 comments

  6. Oh man, these are just exquisite pictures! almost makes me homesick for winter from Australia.

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