Saturday, July 16, 2011
Allamuchy Mountain State Park was next on my list after Stephens State Park. It was no more than a ten minute drive between the two parks, which was quite convenient.
The sun continued to rise, as it was a little after 11:00 A.M. when I arrived. The parking lot was grassy, so I wouldn't recommend hiking and parking here after a rain storm. Unless you're feeling bold and have a truck of course. My original plan was to take the yellow trail to the white trail to the red trail to the blue trail to the yellow trail back to my car. The beginning of my hike didn't work out so well. I would suggest finding a better map than the one supplied by the park, because they don't have unmarked trails marked on the map. What I thought was the intersection of the yellow and white trail, ended up just being an unmarked trail that eventually led me back the white trail. Only, I wasn't sure which way was North. I really need to invest in a compass. I had a hunch to go right, but I second-guessed myself and went left. Then I found two people biking and asked them if they knew where they were. Apparently I chose the wrong direction. So I began to head back the other way.
I continued on the white trail, which had a random sharp turn down the mountain. I then came to another T, with no idea which way to go. Once again, my gut was telling me right, but I decided to go left. I knew it was the wrong way when I eventually saw a trail marker that said Allamuchy Pond Trail. I soon saw two hikers come down my path, and I asked if they knew their bearings. They showed me a map that marked me in the territory of an unmarked trail. Go figure. So I headed back to the white trail intersection and continued walking.
I later saw white/red markers, and eventually I entered on the red trail. Hooray! Since the red trail goes around Deer Park Pond and continues with the blue trail, the worst of the hike was now over. I can't get lost now: It must be easy breezy from here on out. As I neared the pond, the trees opened up to partly cloudy skies. I forgot how hot these summer days get when I've been in the shade the whole time. I was working up a healthy sweat by this time.
The pond was filled with lily pads, and a few flowers as well. If I looked out far enough, I could see the water glisten as it reflected the sunlight. Quite majestic, I may add. As I walked on the red trail, I started to see more raspberries, ripe for the picking. I really need to start growing a raspberry bush. It would be great if I could get a wild strain rather than a farmed strain. These raspberries just look so much juicier and natural. The soundtrack at this point of the trail was a bird who would not stop chirping. Once I found where it was, I took a little video zoomed in on it. A good minute of chirping, and it still didn't stop. My guess was that it was calling for a lover, with no avail. Though there was a second bird that began chiming in as well. Maybe she's playing hard to get. Regardless, walking around the pond and seeing a few pairs of people go by got me thinking- hiking definitely ranks up there in best date ideas.
After my walk around the pond concluded, I headed back into the woods. All I needed to do was take the blue trail back to the yellow trail. Not too bad. Though, before I left the pond area, I could have sworn I heard a beaver slapping his tail and breaking some sticks. I had remembered seeing something that looked like a dam on the pond, but the trail I was on didn't have access to the pond at this point. So unfortunately, I had to take it for granted that I heard a beaver. (After googling it online, there are in fact beavers at Allamuchy). The final animal I came across was a frog, which I only found because I heard him scurry in the leaves nearby. Unfortunately, I could only get a picture of his back before he moved along.
The last leg of the hike was a walk along the yellow trail, which doubled as a driving path. Only a few cars passed by, but considering the road was narrow for more than one car, I stopped walking to let a car pass by me. Then, after almost four hours of hiking (with the occasional break to take pictures), I finally made it back to my car. My legs were very happy to finish this journey.
I passed by a farmers market on the way to the parks, so I decided to take the same way home and pick up some local produce. I saw a gardening area with a table of self-serve corn and peaches (take what you want but put the total amount of money into a box.) I only bought two ears of corn and two peaches since they didn't look top-notch. I continued to drive and saw a larger produce stand. Here I bought some big, juicy-looking jersey tomatoes, more corn, more peaches, a watermelon, and raw milk cheddar cheese. I was really happy to see local, raw milk cheese. By this point, I felt satisfied. Then to my surprise, I saw a sign for another farm. So I followed the sign and came to Alstede Farms. I bought some broccoli, fresh local eggs (huge smile on my face when I saw those), and ice-cold local apple cider. That apple cider was liquid gold to my throat. Maybe just because it was so cold, maybe because it tasted so good, maybe just because I was a little hungry. But man, now that I was driving home feeling refreshed after quite a productive day, I was feeling on top of the world. Though a little rough at some points in my hike, this was one of those days that reminds me what living really is all about.
Pictures are 63-199: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150316338465260.386848.753450259&l=ee3c9b87a9
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Trip #24: Stephens State Park
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Starting off at Stephens State Park before heading to Allamuchy Mountain State Park proved to be a good idea, since the park office for Allamuchy was located at Stephens State Park. I originally planned this since I noticed that there are shorter trails at Stephens than at Allamuchy.
My hike began on the red trail by the park office. I then looped around and finished the last leg along the Musconetong River. There was a bit of an incline to start off with, which then progressed to a more gradual descent later on the trail. There isn't too much to say about my trail, besides the fact that it was quite buggy despite wearing bug spray. I'm used to hearing only birds chirping, that I was taken by surprise to hear a different sound- the low hum of bugs. It was a little unnerving being able to hear buzzing all around me, but besides a stray fly here and there, it was manageable. I spent less than an hour at this park, which was for the best since Allamuchy was going to be an all-day affair.
Pictures are 1-62: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150316338465260.386848.753450259&l=ee3c9b87a9
Starting off at Stephens State Park before heading to Allamuchy Mountain State Park proved to be a good idea, since the park office for Allamuchy was located at Stephens State Park. I originally planned this since I noticed that there are shorter trails at Stephens than at Allamuchy.
My hike began on the red trail by the park office. I then looped around and finished the last leg along the Musconetong River. There was a bit of an incline to start off with, which then progressed to a more gradual descent later on the trail. There isn't too much to say about my trail, besides the fact that it was quite buggy despite wearing bug spray. I'm used to hearing only birds chirping, that I was taken by surprise to hear a different sound- the low hum of bugs. It was a little unnerving being able to hear buzzing all around me, but besides a stray fly here and there, it was manageable. I spent less than an hour at this park, which was for the best since Allamuchy was going to be an all-day affair.
Pictures are 1-62: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150316338465260.386848.753450259&l=ee3c9b87a9
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Trip #23: Spruce Run Recreation Area
Saturday, July 9, 2011
My final excursion for the day was Spruce Run. Google maps tricked me into thinking it was a State Park. There's one major difference between state parks and recreation areas: recreation areas charge you $5-10 for parking. Since it was a weekend day, it cost me ten dollars, which was a shame because I didn't spend more than an hour here as well.
Spruce Run Recreation Area is exactly what it says it is- a recreation area. I didn't see any trails, just a beach area on the lake and a number of group picnicking sites. One cool thing about it though, is that you can sail on the reservoir. You can even rent a boat! Near the boat launch area, a number of boats were parked on the dirt for the summer season, but I wonder if those are kept there by their owners.
Had I brought my bathing suit, this would have been a nice way to cool off after the hiking I did today. But it wasn't meant to be, which is okay, because I instead took the time to go back to the produce stand and farm to pick my own jersey peaches and buy some jersey tomatoes. And boy, are they yummy :) Nothing like some good ole local produce.
If there's one thing I learned about my three trips today, it's this: I'm a rural girl stuck in a city girl's mind.
Pictures are 134-155: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150300499995260.381633.753450259&l=901882d6a8
My final excursion for the day was Spruce Run. Google maps tricked me into thinking it was a State Park. There's one major difference between state parks and recreation areas: recreation areas charge you $5-10 for parking. Since it was a weekend day, it cost me ten dollars, which was a shame because I didn't spend more than an hour here as well.
Spruce Run Recreation Area is exactly what it says it is- a recreation area. I didn't see any trails, just a beach area on the lake and a number of group picnicking sites. One cool thing about it though, is that you can sail on the reservoir. You can even rent a boat! Near the boat launch area, a number of boats were parked on the dirt for the summer season, but I wonder if those are kept there by their owners.
Had I brought my bathing suit, this would have been a nice way to cool off after the hiking I did today. But it wasn't meant to be, which is okay, because I instead took the time to go back to the produce stand and farm to pick my own jersey peaches and buy some jersey tomatoes. And boy, are they yummy :) Nothing like some good ole local produce.
If there's one thing I learned about my three trips today, it's this: I'm a rural girl stuck in a city girl's mind.
Pictures are 134-155: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150300499995260.381633.753450259&l=901882d6a8
Trip #22: Voorhees State Park
Saturday, July 9, 2011
On the way to Voorhees State Park, I passed by a farm where you could pick your own peaches, and a small garden center/produce stand. I was really wishing I brought a cooler, so that I could buy some produce before I head home after the next park. (I ended up spending the time and gas money to backtrack after Spruce Run. I just couldn't pass up the opportunity of buying jersey fresh produce right from the farm.)
I spent no more than an hour in Voorhees State Park since I wanted to have enough time to make it to Spruce Run. I found a trail map outside the office, parked, and hiked for a bit. However, this park didn't really stand out to me. There was a creek I crossed over, but nothing compared to Hacklebarney. I looked at the map and saw that if I drove to another entrance down County Route 513, I would come across a Scenic View and an Observatory. Unfortunately, the Scenic View wasn't worth the connotation, and the Observatory was closed. Oh well. I decided to continue my journey to Spruce Run.
Pictures are 118-135; Peach pictures are 156-164: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150300499995260.381633.753450259&l=901882d6a8
On the way to Voorhees State Park, I passed by a farm where you could pick your own peaches, and a small garden center/produce stand. I was really wishing I brought a cooler, so that I could buy some produce before I head home after the next park. (I ended up spending the time and gas money to backtrack after Spruce Run. I just couldn't pass up the opportunity of buying jersey fresh produce right from the farm.)
I spent no more than an hour in Voorhees State Park since I wanted to have enough time to make it to Spruce Run. I found a trail map outside the office, parked, and hiked for a bit. However, this park didn't really stand out to me. There was a creek I crossed over, but nothing compared to Hacklebarney. I looked at the map and saw that if I drove to another entrance down County Route 513, I would come across a Scenic View and an Observatory. Unfortunately, the Scenic View wasn't worth the connotation, and the Observatory was closed. Oh well. I decided to continue my journey to Spruce Run.
Pictures are 118-135; Peach pictures are 156-164: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150300499995260.381633.753450259&l=901882d6a8
Trip #21: Hacklebarney State Park
Saturday, July 9, 2011
A park that's just as fun as its name is.
And so the title of my favorite state park now goes to Hacklebarney State Park.
Getting to the park was a bit of a journey in and of itself. Coming from US-206, I had to turn onto Lamerson Road, which I easily could have passed had I not been paying close attention. I couldn't believe the homes that I saw in this area and in the general vicinity after I left the park. I didn't expect to see such large houses, but when I saw a tennis court behind one of them, I simply smiled. I don't know what land prices go for around here, but it seems like its either not much, or there are some wealthy people who have set up camp. Just before the park, I also saw a Cider Mill. Unfortunately, they don't open until Labor Day weekend, and they close by Christmas. I may have to find an excuse to return to this area come the Fall season.
I arrived at the park a little after 10:00 A.M. Only a handful of cars were parked, waiting for their early bird drivers to return. Before setting out, I lathered up my arms with sunscreen, and then spread bug spray all over my body and clothes- can't hurt to spray it on my clothes, right? Don't want any ticks crawling around like they did after Ringwood State Park. I then walked up to the park office only to find a "closed" sign and an empty bin of trail maps. Looks like I was going to wing this one. I did see a trail map posted in a glass-covered bulletin board, but I figured with all the trail break-offs, I might as well just see where the path takes me. After all, even if I did get lost, I'd have all day to get back where I started.
There was a pretty sketchy restroom area at the entrance of the park, but considering I'm female, I don't have much of an option otherwise. Upon leaving the restrooms, I noticed a sign that said to be aware that this park has ticks carrying Lymes Disease. What a great thought to start off with. But alas, I made myself look dorky and tucked my gray pants into my plaid red socks. Quite a fashion statement with blue sneakers.
One of the things I loved about the park was something I noticed within the first few minutes- the way the sunlight penetrated through gaps in the leaves. It was both shady and sunny at the same time, but in a way that nature was trying to be fashionable: a sort of stylized canopy. Whatever was her intention, I absolutely loved it. There were so many great photo-ops of particular plants spotlit in a shady environment. The best to which I eventually came across was the shadow created by birch tree leaves close to the ground. It was pure natural art to my eyes...and my camera!
The main trail that I began was well-established, which was comforting after reading the Lyme's Disease warning. It soon broke off to a yellow trail, which was a small loop back to the main trail. Only this trail was much more narrow and less-traveled. I almost walked through a spider web, with the home-owner perked near the middle of it. I attempted to catch a picture but soon gave up. Trying to photograph a small black thing in an almost transparent canvas was too much for my patience.
The sound of a brook became louder as I approached a small bridge. What a sense of calm that water brings. Such a simple, ordinary noise, though I guess no longer ordinary in a city/suburban setting. C'est dommage. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the trail later on took me along the brook. So I had my very own soothing soundtrack. No headphones necessary.
Before I began the trail along the brook, the trail I was on brought me to the end of the park property. Continuing on the path was private property. So I turned back and found a continuation of the other trail. As I was doing so, I found a picnic table with the sun shining through the trees, as if it were on display. Quite a sight, really, since there were even a few steps leading up to the table.
Farther along the red trail, there was even a small waterfall. I noticed some small rapids along the brook, but it was interesting to find a water fall as well. It was a great addition to the vast number of large rocks referred to as the Rock Grove. The rocks were another reason that made this park so much fun. At some points, there wasn't a defined path, because you had to walk over rocks to continue the way. I definitely enjoyed this change of track. I also encountered a number of hikers with their dogs, often without leashes, which was pleasant to see.
My final surprise was to find wild raspberries (and even a blackberry). I noticed weirdly shaped flowering plants, but had no idea that raspberries were hidden underneath until some sprouted out of their shells. I was so tempted to try one, but alas, I played it safe and left wilderness the way it was when I came in. Though I must say, they looked so perfectly plump, albeit tiny. About a third the size of raspberries I buy from the grocery store, but much more flavorful I imagine.
I finally made it back to the park entrance about two and a half hours later. And what an appetite I worked up. I took a left out of the park to take me to Hacklebarney Road. I took this until I hit Fairmount and the Route 513, where I found a place called Restuarant Village at Long Valley. There was a Pub and Brewery which hit the spot after a morning of hiking. Though I didn't order any beer, my French Onion soup and Pub sandwich were quite delicious. A great way to end the first half of my day.
Pictures are in this album: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150309701035260.384866.753450259&l=981c8f0a8d
A park that's just as fun as its name is.
And so the title of my favorite state park now goes to Hacklebarney State Park.
Getting to the park was a bit of a journey in and of itself. Coming from US-206, I had to turn onto Lamerson Road, which I easily could have passed had I not been paying close attention. I couldn't believe the homes that I saw in this area and in the general vicinity after I left the park. I didn't expect to see such large houses, but when I saw a tennis court behind one of them, I simply smiled. I don't know what land prices go for around here, but it seems like its either not much, or there are some wealthy people who have set up camp. Just before the park, I also saw a Cider Mill. Unfortunately, they don't open until Labor Day weekend, and they close by Christmas. I may have to find an excuse to return to this area come the Fall season.
I arrived at the park a little after 10:00 A.M. Only a handful of cars were parked, waiting for their early bird drivers to return. Before setting out, I lathered up my arms with sunscreen, and then spread bug spray all over my body and clothes- can't hurt to spray it on my clothes, right? Don't want any ticks crawling around like they did after Ringwood State Park. I then walked up to the park office only to find a "closed" sign and an empty bin of trail maps. Looks like I was going to wing this one. I did see a trail map posted in a glass-covered bulletin board, but I figured with all the trail break-offs, I might as well just see where the path takes me. After all, even if I did get lost, I'd have all day to get back where I started.
There was a pretty sketchy restroom area at the entrance of the park, but considering I'm female, I don't have much of an option otherwise. Upon leaving the restrooms, I noticed a sign that said to be aware that this park has ticks carrying Lymes Disease. What a great thought to start off with. But alas, I made myself look dorky and tucked my gray pants into my plaid red socks. Quite a fashion statement with blue sneakers.
One of the things I loved about the park was something I noticed within the first few minutes- the way the sunlight penetrated through gaps in the leaves. It was both shady and sunny at the same time, but in a way that nature was trying to be fashionable: a sort of stylized canopy. Whatever was her intention, I absolutely loved it. There were so many great photo-ops of particular plants spotlit in a shady environment. The best to which I eventually came across was the shadow created by birch tree leaves close to the ground. It was pure natural art to my eyes...and my camera!
The main trail that I began was well-established, which was comforting after reading the Lyme's Disease warning. It soon broke off to a yellow trail, which was a small loop back to the main trail. Only this trail was much more narrow and less-traveled. I almost walked through a spider web, with the home-owner perked near the middle of it. I attempted to catch a picture but soon gave up. Trying to photograph a small black thing in an almost transparent canvas was too much for my patience.
The sound of a brook became louder as I approached a small bridge. What a sense of calm that water brings. Such a simple, ordinary noise, though I guess no longer ordinary in a city/suburban setting. C'est dommage. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the trail later on took me along the brook. So I had my very own soothing soundtrack. No headphones necessary.
Before I began the trail along the brook, the trail I was on brought me to the end of the park property. Continuing on the path was private property. So I turned back and found a continuation of the other trail. As I was doing so, I found a picnic table with the sun shining through the trees, as if it were on display. Quite a sight, really, since there were even a few steps leading up to the table.
Farther along the red trail, there was even a small waterfall. I noticed some small rapids along the brook, but it was interesting to find a water fall as well. It was a great addition to the vast number of large rocks referred to as the Rock Grove. The rocks were another reason that made this park so much fun. At some points, there wasn't a defined path, because you had to walk over rocks to continue the way. I definitely enjoyed this change of track. I also encountered a number of hikers with their dogs, often without leashes, which was pleasant to see.
My final surprise was to find wild raspberries (and even a blackberry). I noticed weirdly shaped flowering plants, but had no idea that raspberries were hidden underneath until some sprouted out of their shells. I was so tempted to try one, but alas, I played it safe and left wilderness the way it was when I came in. Though I must say, they looked so perfectly plump, albeit tiny. About a third the size of raspberries I buy from the grocery store, but much more flavorful I imagine.
I finally made it back to the park entrance about two and a half hours later. And what an appetite I worked up. I took a left out of the park to take me to Hacklebarney Road. I took this until I hit Fairmount and the Route 513, where I found a place called Restuarant Village at Long Valley. There was a Pub and Brewery which hit the spot after a morning of hiking. Though I didn't order any beer, my French Onion soup and Pub sandwich were quite delicious. A great way to end the first half of my day.
Pictures are in this album: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150309701035260.384866.753450259&l=981c8f0a8d
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Trip #20: Strathmere & Ocean City
Sunday, July 3, 2011
When I think of the Jersey Shore, I think of Ocean City, since it was the beach that I went to with friends in my younger years. It's convenient to drive to (being close to the A.C. Expressway) and has a great boardwalk. However, my friends decided to go to Strathmere for the day instead. One benefit of doing so is that there are no beach tags, like in Ocean City. Then again, there also aren't lifeguards, which is actually a nice change of pace (I don't have to swim in a particular area or have someone blow their whistle at any fun activity in the water.) Strathmere as a Jersey beach is adequate, but I definitely think there are better beaches to go to in the area. Regardless, the day turned from a cloudy, rainy morning to a bright, sunny afternoon- perfect beach weather. So I was happy.
We went on a walk along the shore, and came across some rocks covered with mussels. Had you not looked down, you wouldn't have noticed you were stepping on little sea creatures. A few baby crabs and a large orange crab were even found lurking in the water as the tide swept along.
As the sun slowly descended from its crowing glory, it seemed time to pack up and head to the Ocean City Boardwalk. The best part about the boardwalk? The food! Since my friend was new to the Ocean City Boardwalk, I showed him the ultimate Boardwalk meal. We started off each with a slice of Mack & Manco's Pizza, followed by some freshly squeezed lemonade. For dessert, we had some Monkey Bread, which is essentially like a cinnamon roll, but a million times tastier. Since all that sugar sits in your stomach, you need some carbs to soak it all up, which is why we got some fries, and then sprinkled Old Bay seasoning on them. To top it all off and cool down, Polish Water Ice ended our journey.
Unfortunately, at about 8:30 P.M., a massive dark cloud of doom loomed over the shore, with a few lightening bolts to boot. People began freaking out, turning the boards into a bit of a mayhem. So my friend and I started walking south back to where I parked my car. It was a good twenty blocks away, and I was worried we wouldn't make it before the downpour. Long story short, no rain came down, even though the skies threatened to. But I imagine due to the storm, the fireworks were pushed back to Monday instead of Sunday, which was too bad, because I was really looking forward to seeing fireworks on the beach.
When I think of the Jersey Shore, I think of Ocean City, since it was the beach that I went to with friends in my younger years. It's convenient to drive to (being close to the A.C. Expressway) and has a great boardwalk. However, my friends decided to go to Strathmere for the day instead. One benefit of doing so is that there are no beach tags, like in Ocean City. Then again, there also aren't lifeguards, which is actually a nice change of pace (I don't have to swim in a particular area or have someone blow their whistle at any fun activity in the water.) Strathmere as a Jersey beach is adequate, but I definitely think there are better beaches to go to in the area. Regardless, the day turned from a cloudy, rainy morning to a bright, sunny afternoon- perfect beach weather. So I was happy.
We went on a walk along the shore, and came across some rocks covered with mussels. Had you not looked down, you wouldn't have noticed you were stepping on little sea creatures. A few baby crabs and a large orange crab were even found lurking in the water as the tide swept along.
As the sun slowly descended from its crowing glory, it seemed time to pack up and head to the Ocean City Boardwalk. The best part about the boardwalk? The food! Since my friend was new to the Ocean City Boardwalk, I showed him the ultimate Boardwalk meal. We started off each with a slice of Mack & Manco's Pizza, followed by some freshly squeezed lemonade. For dessert, we had some Monkey Bread, which is essentially like a cinnamon roll, but a million times tastier. Since all that sugar sits in your stomach, you need some carbs to soak it all up, which is why we got some fries, and then sprinkled Old Bay seasoning on them. To top it all off and cool down, Polish Water Ice ended our journey.
Unfortunately, at about 8:30 P.M., a massive dark cloud of doom loomed over the shore, with a few lightening bolts to boot. People began freaking out, turning the boards into a bit of a mayhem. So my friend and I started walking south back to where I parked my car. It was a good twenty blocks away, and I was worried we wouldn't make it before the downpour. Long story short, no rain came down, even though the skies threatened to. But I imagine due to the storm, the fireworks were pushed back to Monday instead of Sunday, which was too bad, because I was really looking forward to seeing fireworks on the beach.
Trip #19: Corsons Inlet State Park
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Though the morning started off on a wet note, the gray skies cleared by late morning as a friend and I drove to Strathmere for a beach day to meet up with a few more people. As we exited the Garden State Parkway, I noticed a sign for Corsons Inlet State Park. Since I knew I had arrived to the beach early, I decided to take a detour and explore the area.
There was a small parking lot, which let out to the inlet/bay area. The trail started at one end of the parking lot. It was a sandy trail that became quite narrow in places where the lush green plants spread out into the open walkway. If there's one tip I give to anyone else who comes to this park, it's that you be completely covered up or have some strong bug spray. After walking along the path that led out to the ocean, I ended up with fifteen bug bites on my legs: the price paid for not being prepared. I was so relieved by the time I saw the ocean in the distance. The cold water felt so nice against my battlefield legs. Recognizing that it'd be worth it to just jump into the ocean in Strathmere, my friend and I decided to head back- or rather, run back through the trail to minimize bug attacks.
So all in all, a surprise of a state park. Very small, but definitely a nice addition to a beach trip. One things for sure- you better have a good defense against all those buggers!
Pictures are 89-117: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150300499995260.381633.753450259&l=901882d6a8
Though the morning started off on a wet note, the gray skies cleared by late morning as a friend and I drove to Strathmere for a beach day to meet up with a few more people. As we exited the Garden State Parkway, I noticed a sign for Corsons Inlet State Park. Since I knew I had arrived to the beach early, I decided to take a detour and explore the area.
There was a small parking lot, which let out to the inlet/bay area. The trail started at one end of the parking lot. It was a sandy trail that became quite narrow in places where the lush green plants spread out into the open walkway. If there's one tip I give to anyone else who comes to this park, it's that you be completely covered up or have some strong bug spray. After walking along the path that led out to the ocean, I ended up with fifteen bug bites on my legs: the price paid for not being prepared. I was so relieved by the time I saw the ocean in the distance. The cold water felt so nice against my battlefield legs. Recognizing that it'd be worth it to just jump into the ocean in Strathmere, my friend and I decided to head back- or rather, run back through the trail to minimize bug attacks.
So all in all, a surprise of a state park. Very small, but definitely a nice addition to a beach trip. One things for sure- you better have a good defense against all those buggers!
Pictures are 89-117: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150300499995260.381633.753450259&l=901882d6a8
Monday, July 4, 2011
Trip #18: Rancocas State Park
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Since I was driving back to my apartment from South Jersey on Sunday, I took I-295 North, and decided to stop at Rancocas State Park with a good friend of mine. It's right off of exit 43 or 45A, depending on how you want to get there. But since this was a very last minute decision, I took exit 43 and knew I had to turn left somewhere to get to the Park. We decided to try Rancocas Boulevard, and as I turned onto it, my friend spotted a hawk/falcon (I don't know my birds very well), so I pulled over and snapped some pictures. After this pause in our journey, we finally stumbled upon a small sign that said "Rancocas Woods State Park" and began our trail. It wasn't the main entrance of the park, however. Since we didn't have a map of the area, we decided to stick with what we had. It was later in the afternoon, anyway, so it wasn't going to be a long trip.
The only problem with the trail that we took was that there were no markers. It was a clearly marked trail, but unless you knew the area, it could have been easy to get lost. Nonetheless, it was a nice walk, and we were able to take a trail to spit us off at the creek. We somehow managed to come back to the entrance of the trail where we began, but I'd say that happened more by chance than by effort.
I'll definitely have to go back to this park and explore the main area, especially since the section of the park that I visited was no more than a fifth of the area of the total park. There's also the Powhatan Renape Indian Reservation and Rancoas Nature Center within the park as well.
Pictures are in this album: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150300499995260.381633.753450259&l=901882d6a8
Since I was driving back to my apartment from South Jersey on Sunday, I took I-295 North, and decided to stop at Rancocas State Park with a good friend of mine. It's right off of exit 43 or 45A, depending on how you want to get there. But since this was a very last minute decision, I took exit 43 and knew I had to turn left somewhere to get to the Park. We decided to try Rancocas Boulevard, and as I turned onto it, my friend spotted a hawk/falcon (I don't know my birds very well), so I pulled over and snapped some pictures. After this pause in our journey, we finally stumbled upon a small sign that said "Rancocas Woods State Park" and began our trail. It wasn't the main entrance of the park, however. Since we didn't have a map of the area, we decided to stick with what we had. It was later in the afternoon, anyway, so it wasn't going to be a long trip.
The only problem with the trail that we took was that there were no markers. It was a clearly marked trail, but unless you knew the area, it could have been easy to get lost. Nonetheless, it was a nice walk, and we were able to take a trail to spit us off at the creek. We somehow managed to come back to the entrance of the trail where we began, but I'd say that happened more by chance than by effort.
I'll definitely have to go back to this park and explore the main area, especially since the section of the park that I visited was no more than a fifth of the area of the total park. There's also the Powhatan Renape Indian Reservation and Rancoas Nature Center within the park as well.
Pictures are in this album: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150300499995260.381633.753450259&l=901882d6a8
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