Follow the Light Path
by Peggy Franz
Title
Follow the Light Path
Artist
Peggy Franz
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
Representing both characteristic and unique features of the eastern Ozarks, Washington State Park contains a rich mixture of native forests. The Washington State Park Hardwoods Natural Area, bordering the Big River floodplain, is moist and robust with a wide assortment of trees. Under the canopy of tall Kentucky coffee, sugar maple and slippery elm trees, the ferns and wildflowers mingle with understory pawpaw and bladdernut trees. In early spring, the natural area hosts one of the park system's most spectacular wildflower shows as blue-eyed Marys, celandine poppies, bluebells, trilliums and violets burst into bloom.In contrast, on the hills above are limestone glades and savannas, which are remnants of the area's earlier, presettlement appearance. These open forests and sparse grasslands are scattered throughout the park's uplands and along most of the trails.
Another notable natural feature of the park are the towering dolomite bluffs overlooking the Big River, a popular floating and canoeing waterway. Below the bluffs, anglers enjoy catching bass, catfish, bluegill and carp. Swimmers and sunbathers have a choice between a natural gravel bar in the river
There are three marked hiking trails, including the 1,000 Steps Trail, Opossum Track Trail along the bluffs overlooking the river, and the more rugged Rockywood Trail, which includes a backpack camp.
Uploaded
February 23rd, 2014
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Viewed 857 Times - Last Visitor from Fairfield, CT on 04/24/2024 at 12:19 PM
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