A hidden gem

It's funny how small, but beautiful nature preserves go unnoticed. At least by me. I can't really do any serious hiking right now, so I've been looking for places that are nearby and are easy to trek. Found one that is a Nature Conservancy property and protects rare Atlantic white cedar trees among other things. I had a ramble through it the other day -

They don't call it the Granite state for nothing -
http://wickeddark.smugmug.com/Nature...4_KrXNp-XL.jpg

The contrasting colors caught my eye and you know how I love ferns -
http://wickeddark.smugmug.com/Nature...1_hqhpf-XL.jpg

Wooden walkway over what is probably really swampy in spring -
http://wickeddark.smugmug.com/Nature...8_MXt3v-XL.jpg

All of a sudden, the woods were creepy. I can't explain it, but I liked it -
http://wickeddark.smugmug.com/Nature...6_33fLh-XL.jpg

Mushroomy microscape -
http://wickeddark.smugmug.com/Nature...9_4GD6h-XL.jpg

As I didn't bring a tripod, I used available stumps and rocks when I needed slower shutter speeds. All done w/the E-30 and the Zuiko Digital 12-60mm.

Lovely set, wicked. Love the oak leaf on granite. They do not turn red here, sadly.

thanks, girl. I believe that leaf is from a scarlet oak, native to central New England and nowhere else I think. They're not the only oaks that turn red though.

A very wonderful set! My favourite is the mushrooms. The detail is excellent!

Love this set, especially the leaf of granite,

Thanks guys. It's tough to do leaf shots what with everyone and their brother doing them, but I couldn't stop myself.

Love the perspective you caught with the old wooden planks...nicely done girl!

thanks much. I shot a few different versions of that little walkway, but that one just stood out most.

very nice set Wicked, mushrooms for me as well

Really nice and varied set - i think i favour the planks shot here!