Chestnut Leaf

This is a photo of a chestnut leaf from what is believed to be the only nut-bearing American Chestnut in Chittenden County.

Centennial Woods

Centennial Woods is a UVM natural area that is in Burlington and easy to access. The main paths are fairly well-traveled, but I've discovered hidden corners of this area! It is beautiful in every season, and has both hilly and swampy sections.

Check out this link for more information on Centennial Woods and directions: http://www.uvm.edu/~envprog/?Page=naturalareas/centennial/default.html

While researching Centennial Woods online, I came across this field guide called "The Changing Landscapes of  Centennial Woods Natural Area" written by the UVM Environmental Program. It is very interesting and provides a great basic reference for the natural history of the area. Here is the link: http://www.uvm.edu/~uvmsc/Centennial%20Woods/Changing_Landscapes_Centennial_Woods002.pdf

A low and swampy area provides a visual respite from the forest.

Sunlight infiltrates the tall white pines

Boardwalk

I thought this was interesting...all of the branches growing off of this branch are growing vertically!

Any ideas what this may be? I was thinking it may be a type of fern. (Update: sensitive fern!)

Patterns in the Ice

Winter continues to weave its beautiful web, and yesterday was particularly lovely--clear, sunny, and cold. These ice patterns were on Mud Pond in Williston. I wasn't expecting the trail to open up to such a large pond!
Check out this link for an article and photos on ice bubbles in Canada: http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/ice-bubbles-create-picturesque-scene-1569118

Laraway Mountain

Today I went on a hike at Laraway Mountain, which is part of the Long Trail. We had a little trouble finding the trailhead and the trail itself proved to be difficult to follow since it crossed several icy streams. We decided to turn around after realizing that the trail would lead us to cross an even larger stream that had steep slopes on either side. I wasn't too disappointed because it was just fun to get outdoors and enjoy the sights of winter. We also saw a chickadee fairly close up, and saw many animal tracks in the snow (most likely mouse, squirrel, and rabbit). This hike was beautiful, and it would be fun to go back and hike the entire trail in the warmer months.

A beautiful winter scene

Ice stalactites and stalagmites 

Pitch Pine at Arms Grant

These photos show the bark of a pitch pine at Arms Grant, a natural area adjacent to Lone Rock Point. I just love the texture and complexity of the bark.

Lone Rock Point

Lone Rock Point is an awesome place to explore on a sunny winter day!