Ice crystals on Hare Mountain during my winter thru-hike in 2014

This morning as I began my 5:15 a.m. hike, I was greeted by sandy sparkles reflecting in the dim light of my headlamp. Gloves felt good, and I was comforted by the knowledge that my fingers would be toasty warm in about 30-minutes or so.

I’ve missed my frozen friends having just had one of the warmest Novembers I remember. First frost marks the beginning of a wonderful hiking season in the Ozarks. First hard freeze may not be far behind. Bring on the winter!

Frost flower next to the Ozark Highlands Trail

Frost flower next to the Ozark Highlands Trail