On Tuesday, June 2nd, 33 ADKers walked uphill from the entrance of upper Riddell State Park to a creek where we took a snack break. Some decided to return at this point, but 26 hikers crossed the creek and continued to Mud Lake. Mud Lake is an open bog surrounded by a sphagnum moss mat. To walk on the mat is a water-bed experience. Growing from the mat we examined the specialized flora of Early Azalea, Pale Laurel, High-bush Blueberry and carnivorous plants. Both Pitcher and Sundew plants were observed and photographed. After leaving the bog and taking a lunch break we retraced our steps under sunny skies back to the Riddell’s entrance. The round trip was an exhilarating 4.8 miles. Photographs include: 1) Mud Lake, 2) Early Azalea (Rhododendron roseum), 3) Pale Laurel (Kalmia polifolia), 4) Pitcher Plant Leaf (Sarracenia purpurea), 5) Pitcher Plant Flower Stalk, 6) Pitcher Plant Flower, 7) Oak Leaf Galls, 8) Buttercup Flower, and 9) Mud Lake Friends. Photos 1, 3, 4, 5 are by Currie Marr and photographs 2, 6, 7, 8, and 9 are by Carol Saggese.
Susquehanna Chapter 