Frost is winter’s most delicate—and arguably beautiful—sign. From intricate patterns upon smooth surfaces to a light sheen on grass and trees, it reminds us that winter’s grandeur is as appealing on a small scale as it is in a heavy snow atop a mountain.

Meadows near Spooner Lake, photo by Martin Gollery

Rime-covered rocks and trees on Donner Summit, photo by Ryan Salm

Ice crystals on a window, photo by Grant Gunderson

Frost-covered rock at Prosser Reservoir, photo by Scott Thompson