There’s something magical about our wildlife sanctuaries when they’re draped in a fresh blanket of snow; over-wintering birds like chickadees and goldfinches flit between bare, icy branches and a peaceful hush envelops the world as the fluffy snow absorbs the sounds of their chirping and singing. With just the crunch of boots breaking through a crust of ice and snow and the puff of frosty breath in the air, winter brings a beauty and solitude all its own.

Here are five wintry scenes from our wildlife sanctuaries, submitted to past years of our Picture This: Your Great Outdoors photo contest. Drink them in, close your eyes, and be transported in your mind to each place—then grab your mittens and your coat and go find the real thing!

Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, Natick © Ken Conway

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield © Matthew Pettengill

High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary, Shelburne © Henry Josephson

Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, Norfolk © Al Jesness

Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, Princeton © Amy Harley