A short drive from the the Gardens, our managed forest preserve borders a shallow lake. An "antique" farmhouse and barn are located at the edge of the forest.
The farmhouse is over 100 years old.
Bluestone patio by Darder Stoneworks
Old farm fields surround the house.
and the barn.
Old field/meadow in full bloom.
Mowed paths lead to the forest and lake.
There are trails throughout the forest.
In early spring, look for marsh marigold.
The best view overlooking the lake is just a short walk from the farmhouse.
Freshwater pond bog mat along the near shore, hemlocks and great laurel opposite
In early spring the pond edge looks drab, not yet showing any color.
An abandoned beaver lodge sits in the middle of the pond.
Beavers kept the water higher in previous years; cranberries, sphagnum moss and other boggy plants now hug much of the shoreline.
This translucent egg mass allows a view of the developing salamanders.
Wild irises, Iris versicolor, can be found along the shore.
Mother goose has taken over an abandoned beaver lodge.
A field spaniel is no match for a snapping turtle.
Wild rhododendrons, Rhododendron maximum, flower under the shade of hemlocks.
Porcupines are a common sight in the woods. Look, but don’t touch! Too many times our dogs have sniffed a porcupine and lived to regret it.
Harris’ Checkerspot on dogbane
Ferns and mosses cover the ground in many parts of the forest.