It’s rare to have snow fall in December at First Landing State Park but it is even rarer to have snow fall twice in one week before Christmas. On Monday, December 13th,the park saw a light dusting andThursday, December 16th,we saw a pretty good snow (at least by Virginia Beach standards). As often is the case at this park, along the bay by afternoon the snow turn to sleet then rain, melting away the snowmen and the hopes of young school children for a second day off from school. But, while it was here, it was quite beautiful.
Nature seemed to be decorating First Landing for the holidays, the snow caped pine trees and holly bushes creating classic winter wonder land scenes.
On the beach nature decorate not so classic winter scene on the beach. From pictures you might think that First Landing had white sand beaches.
But probably the most visited area, enjoyed by both visitors and park staff alike, was the snow lined trails. The swamps are iced over and the forest floor was covered in a clean blanket of white. Along the trail path you could see evidence of many of the winter inhabitants of the park, bird tracks, rabbit tracks, and even fox tracks.
There is nothing like hiking through snow covered woods. The wonder and stillness is something that should be experienced by all. So if you get the chance to visit one of the state parks in the snow, and that a lot easier at some parks than others, take a walk out in the woods. Just be careful getting there and dress warmly.
It certainly has been a colder and snowier than usual beginning to winter. Leaving us all to wonder could First Landing see a white Christmas?