Beth Lapin

Amazing rocks and forest, ferns and trails in this large state forest

Historically, the area was timbered extensively. This is the current view of the overstory at the old fire station. Impossible to spot any forest fires from this area now.

Moutain laurel was just past peak bloom. Here is an interesting growth formation of one laurel shrub

Collier’s hut remains included its fireplace. Hard to envision this use of the forest.

Beautiful Hackney Marsh, a Ducks Unlimited project.

Unfortunately, turtle eggs were discovered, probably by a raccoon, and eaten at the edge of the pond.

Hike was followed by a delicious lunch of turkey reuben at Deb’s in Higganum. No photo — eaten too quickly!

As part of: 2021 DEEP Sky’s the Limit Challenge List

Low tide and the tombolo to Charles Island

Refreshing water

Moon jellies

Great egrets

Great Lunch! The Greek Spot

As part of: 2021 DEEP Sky’s the Limit Challenge List

Back marshes

Beach rose, Rosa rugosa

Dune restoration

Tip-up mound with all vegetation still alive and well

Sept 11 Living memorial

As part of: 2021 DEEP Sky’s the Limit Challenge List

Dinosaur foot prints led to the establishment of this park

Huge blood root plants indicate rich soils from the eroding trap rock

Wild ginger

A fun butterfly garden sign

A spotted turtle (spotted by Cherry)

Witches’ hats on Witch Hazel: formed by the plant’s reaction to an aphid egg being laid on its surface

As part of: 2021 DEEP Sky’s the Limit Challenge List

Storms the day prior to my visit (April 19) caused extensive downed trees

Signs of spring

Quartz highlighted by moss

Lovely boardwalk trail

Very glad this year’s theme is BRIDGES and BOARDWALKS

As part of: 2021 DEEP Sky’s the Limit Challenge

Bride Brook being restored to allow alewife to travel upstream; Acela overhead

Beautiful beaches, strong winds, low tide

Might even look tropical except for the jacket!

Great view of herons, egrets, and ducks

As part of: 2021 DEEP Sky’s the Limit Challenge List

Entrance

Covered Bridge

Bridge across Farmington River Trail

As part of: 2021 DEEP Sky’s the Limit Challenge List; timber boardwalk on the Orange Trail was nonexistant

Madison CT As part of: 2021 DEEP Sky’s the Limit

Beautiful day Wednesday April 14

Nature Trail and views (no seals)

Willard Island view with osprey

Fried clams and salmon, Fish Tales, safe and distance eating