There's something ethereal and otherworldly about walking through the forest after a snowfall. The "snow" we tend to get here on the South Island tends to be rare, fleeting, and more slush than the fluffy, powdery stuff of magic that we got today. After a wild week of weather (it's pretty rare we are issued an "extreme wind chill warning") it was nice to have a bit of a reprieve and get out and enjoy the snow...while it lasts!
PKOLS is the traditional SENĆOŦEN name for what is known today as Mount Douglas. The name PKOLS translates to "white rock" or "white head." It’s a rare sight to see the mountain living up to its original namesake.
As above…
…so below.
One of the many native species we planted back in November with the Friends of Mount Douglas Park Society. I was very happy to see these young trees have made it through their first winter storm!
The infamous "leaning tree" at Mount Douglas Park Beach, with the snowy hills of Gordon Head in the background.
Nootka Rose Hips. In the spring and summer, this native shrub produces the most gorgeous pink and yellow flowers.
Closeup on the bark of an old cedar tree deep in the forest.