Wild Diversity

By Michelle Lin I’m from the deep south where snow felt like a special treat. But after living in cities where blizzards and -40°F temps were too extreme for my liking, I escaped to the Pacific Northwest. I fell in love with summer sunsets, glorious wildflowers, and endless trails to explore. I thought I was through with the snow, but I was surprised to discover that I love hiking in the winter. Here's why! 1. Frozen waterfalls Last winter I encountered my first frozen waterfalls and I fell in love with these magical ice sculptures that only a waterfall can create. Stepping behind a waterfall surrounded by giant columns of aqua-colored ice is a wondrous experience that can only happen in the depths of winter. I’m lucky to live in an area with so many waterfalls and love seeing how they transform as the cold lingers, snow accumulates and sprays of water turn to ice. 2. Ice is magic Okay, so this is kind of like my first reason, but I wa