Badlands Residency Day 9


Saturday November 10

Snow!!!

I had a secret desire while planning the timing of this residency: seeing Badlands in snow. I'm so thrilled that I keep grinning despite being alone in my apartment in the quad. The forecast indicated a possible small amount of snow amidst dense fog and high winds today. I was watching the radar, and saw some precipitation moving over the black hills. I got my camera and snow gear ready, and headed out when the flurries began, around 1pm. I headed west through the park, and by Norbeck Pass the snow was thick enough on the road that it was becoming rather slick. I would have loved to continue through the park, but turned around instead, knowing I had to make it back down the pass. Also the ice was building on my windows and it was pretty hard to see out. By the time I got back near the visitor's center at 3pm, the snow, fog, and wind had reduced visibility such that many of the rock formations had seemingly disappeared. I hiked around behind the quad taking more photographs. Sitting in my apartment now, watching snow whirl and listening to the wind howl. I have seen many snow tornadoes/dust devils out my window. The snow has built up in a lovely manner around my door and windows, framing the view. Here are some shots from the day. Wish I could upload some the videos I took showing the blustery weather.   

Some of my favorite buttes near the visitor's center.
When I came back two hours later, they were
completely obscured by the fog and snow.


Saddle Pass

My faithful car at Norbeck Pass.
Panoramic view at Norbeck.

Angel Butte from behind the housing area.

Snow blowing around the curves of Angel Butte.