Walking in the woods

Tim and I went for a walk today in an old growth forest that includes Eastern white pine and Eastern hemlock as well as numerous types of mushrooms of various colors.  We spotted a purple mushroom, some that looked like perfect stools for toads and yet another that was bright orange and velvety.  A garter snake squirmed across our path at one point as well.

This area is called the Lisha Kill Natural Area, and it is owned by the Nature Conservancy.  Less than 15 minutes from my parents' house we found a beautiful pocket of wilderness that is a bit unexpected.  I had visited before, but that was years ago.  I had forgotten how despite its being surrounded by suburban homes and a few rather busy roads, it really is a treasure of relative quiet and natural wonder.  I was hoping to see deer or even a barred owl (the trail head sign stated they are commonly seen during the day), but the trees, creek, ferns, fungi and friendly humans and doggies sharing the trail were enough to make this an hour well spent.  Here are a few photos: