The sumac is red now and just complements the yellows and purples of the flowers and the gold of the grasses.
From there we hiked through a mixed maple forest - not many changing leaves yet, but the forest is open enough that we could see through to the little ponds and lakes as we passed them. They added a lot of light and color to the walk.
Our hike also included an oak forest and Lake Maria itself where,if you wanted to, you can rent a canoe or hike on the board walk. If you are into camping, all of the campsites at the park are hike in sites and some take quite a bit of walking, but the quiet space by yourself would be worth it.
Following our tradition, we enjoyed a great lunch together. This time in Monticello at the Corner Cafe where we toasted Margaret, the previous keeper of this blog who was that very day setting out to teach English in Azerbeijan with the Peace Corp.
Margaret, we'll miss you. But we expect you to have a wonderful experience to share with us when you return. Safe travels!
