Submitted by: Stephen Lehman
For the busy adventurer Location: https://goo.gl/maps/qGgi37WfojB2 Cost: Free Hours: Sunrise-Sunset What to expect: Learning center, trails, boardwalk, Black Oak Savanna
Hello Dune Goers! It’s been a few weeks since I last wrote a blog. Normally, I would blog about one of the South Shore area beaches but I’ve hit every major beach from Gary, IN to New Buffalo, MI! On Easter, I was able to get out to the Miller Woods Trail in Gary, IN. There is parking right off of Lake St. (see the link above). The clouds looked pretty dull and there most definitely wasn’t going to be a colorful sunset, so I was a little worried that it might be boring to photograph. To my surprise, the National Lakeshore just finished a prescribed burn of almost the entire area!
As I was getting closer to the burned section of the woods, I saw this boardwalk. Boardwalks through marshy lands are always a blast to walk over. The feeling of being in the middle of otherwise unnavigable terrain is addictive. You can find this boardwalk right in the middle of the Miller Woods Trail. This next photo is easily one of my favorites from my hike.
To finish off my hike surrounded by black soot and seeming death, I was met with a sight of obvious life. I caught this little beaver out of the corner of my eye in just enough time to stop in my tracks as to not startle him. I slowly raised my camera and took as many photos as I could. This one was the best I could get, given the circumstances. Shortly after running into this little guy, I found many examples of his handiwork.
The Miller Woods Trail was one of learning and wandering. I suggest going out for a visit soon so that you can catch it in its burnt state. I know that they do prescribed burns every couple of years, so if you don’t make it out, you’ll have another chance. I hope you have as much fun as I did! Take some great photos while you’re at it!
Until next time my friends, get outside!
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