Daily Postcard: A park ranger stands in knee-deep snow between two snowmobiles on South Mountain Feb. 3 at Valles Caldera National Preserve. Most areas are covered in an icy crust from melting and refreezing. Early afternoon seems to be the sweet spot for skiers and snowshoers who wish to avoid the crusty conditions. Valle Grande snow depth is still averaging about 18 to 24 inches, with higher amounts present in the Cabin District. While rangers were patrolling on snowmobiles last weekend, they set some ski tracks from the Cabin District up to South Mountain (pictured here) and across to Valle Jaramillo. Help preserve these ski tracks by walking or snowshoeing parallel to them, not on them. Check out current conditions: www.nps.gov/vall/planyourvisit/conditions.htm. #RecreateResponsibly. Courtesy/NPS/N. Plants