Excellent weather finally returned to the Sunshine State. The bluebird skies and warm sun greeted all of the bikers and walkers who flocked to the extensive trail system of Palm Coast.

I started out on a portion of the Lehigh Trail, retracing my path from a few days ago, keeping to a paved path in case of puddles and dampness after four days of intermittent rains.

The leafless hardwood trees stand pale against the green tints of the saw palmetto and other shrubs growing on the damp and inudated soils of Graham Swamp. I found myself drawn to photographing reflections and treelines, mainly for amusement. Periodic bikers and walkers passed by with greetings.

Curious plants grow in the wet environment of the swamp. The trees are primarily hardwoods, oaks, Sabal palms, and on higher ground, the occasional Eastern White Cedar… a lovely full aromatic evergreen.

The Lehigh Trail runs east-west through southern Palm Coast, tracing an old railroad route from the now deterlict Lehigh Cement Plant located off of Colbert Road all the way to U.S. 1 north of Bunnell. I’ve only walked on a portion of the trail.

The lowland forest is quite different than what I was used to seeing in Washington State, but it possesses its own ragged beauty.

After completing about half of this section of the Lehigh Trail, I returned and circumnavigated Hidden Lake, a nice little conservation area located next to the residential development of the same name. There is a coquina path around most of the lake with some benches placed for contemplation of the view.

The Hidden Lake Trail parallels a marsh. Every low spot in Florida is probably filled with excess water after all the rain received this past week.

After completing my circuit of Hidden Lake, I drove over to Waterfront Park and found a shaded bench. I just wanted to sit outside for awhile and relish the view over the Intracoastal Waterway.

It was a pleasant outing today. Tomorrow, I may head out to A1A and take in a few beaches, Washington Oaks Gardens, and the River to Sea Preserve. Hopefully, this pleasant weather will hold, too.

I hope you enjoy my photos.

Eliza

Camera: Nikon Coolpix L830

Location: Flagler County

COMMENTS ON