Wintertime in Massachusetts is often described as a winter wonderland, but many don’t know that this is largely due to trees being covered in rime ice. This breathtaking natural phenomenon can happen at various times of the year, but always leaves a crystal-like scene around our state. From trees covered in ice that looks like something out of a storybook, to our forests being completely transformed into a winter wonderland, we can thank the natural beauty known as rime ice. While this kind of ice has many names from rime ice to hoar frost, it leaves a breathtaking scenery no matter what you call it. Let’s learn about the natural phenomenon that tends to pop up throughout Massachusetts in the winter.

Every winter the great state of Massachusetts becomes a winter wonderland, and this is largely due to our nature spots being covered in the natural phenomenon known as rime ice.
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This type of ice is also known as rime frost, hoar frost, or hard rime. This is because there are various different types of rime ice.
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Typical clear ice is completely transparent, and typical forms to the surface that it's on. Rime ice, however, spikes out and leaves a soft yet spiked with crystals. Sometimes this ice can look smooth and milky, depending on if the ice is hard rime or soft rime.
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This natural phenomenon is not necessarily rare, but it does happen quickly. When it gets foggy in below-freezing temperatures, droplets in the air immediately freeze once hitting a surface. This is why entire forests can become covered in rime ice overnight.
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While you wouldn't necessarily want hard rime on your car, soft rime can be brushed off easily. If you don't have anywhere to go, this ice can offer some breathtaking views.
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Winter in Massachusetts is always beautiful, but especially so when rime ice pops up. It's so incredible what nature can bring during winter in the Bay State!
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Have you ever seen rime ice on the trees in winter? What was it like? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments, and don’t forget to then go share photos from your Massachusetts outdoor adventures with us in our Massachusetts Nature Lovers group on Facebook, or by tagging us at #onlyinmassachusetts on Instagram for a chance to be featured!

Speaking of surreal scenery in the winter, you’ll want to visit Bash Bish Falls when it’s completely frozen over.

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