ACORNS DANCE WHILE COLORS EXPLODE…
The Days Grow Shorter as We Welcome Autumn
It seems all the elements are in alignment for an extraordinary display of color this fall. This is the time of the year that is truly a gift to those of us fortunate enough to live in the northeast. Sure, other places experience something like fall foliage, but nothing like the burst of nature’s palette that surrounds us. The vivid shades of scarlet, saffron and russet are eye candy. The rich, mossy scents of loam tease our noses along with a touch of coolness just on the tip. I can smell hot chocolate and a wood burning stove a half a mile away. The earth replenishes its source.
I have often wondered why so many people insist on driving four, five or more hours to enjoy this stunning display when the Pocono Mountains offers some of the most delicious vistas to savor this brilliant performance of nature.
A beautiful spot to visit is The Knob overlooking Milford, PA. A visit to the Old Milford Cemetery first, then park at the top and walk the vertical path for a breathtaking view of Milford. After viewing The Knob, backtrack a bit and turn upwards and follow the trail for a mile or so where you can sit and enjoy wide vistas overlooking the Delaware River into New Jersey.
The Lehigh Valley Gorge in Jim Thorpe is a strenuous climb but the dazzling views from the top are well worth the effort. The glistening waterfalls reflect the vibrant colors adding even more dimension to the fantastic array of colors.
Thunder Swamp, off Route 402 in Bushkill – just before Stroudsburg, consists of over 45 miles of trails. The main trail, blazed in blue (28 miles), has been designated as a State Forest Hiking Trail. This distinction gives the trial special protection and provides a quality experience. The trail loops provide vistas of the Pocono Mountains, abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, numerous wetlands and streams.
The State Game lands off Masthope Plank Road offers some excellent trails along streams and lake for optimum viewing pleasure. In fact, the northeast lake region offers some of the finest viewing opportunities especially those along the ridges overlooking the Delaware and Lackawaxen Rivers.
Wherever you are, inhale the magnificent performance of nature’s artistic display, stop and be present in that moment. See it. Hear it. Smell it. Taste it. Feel it, with your soul. That is the magical essence of autumn.
Climb the mountains and get their good tidings.
Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.
The winds will blow their own freshness into you…
while cares will drop off like autumn leaves. ~ John Muir