Tiny Treasures

Today I spotted two hikers (see below) and then took a little hike myself to McCarthy Lake, a favorite place on our section of trail.

The primary things to see were tiny gifts of the trail. I think this is white coral jelly, but it would have helped if I'd checked for a hollow stem. I always hate to break mushrooms. It doesn't hurt them, but then they are ruined for others to see them

This is Gem Puffball, Lycoperdon perlatum. The book says these are edible, but I haven't tried them. I'll stick to the giant puffball for that. I really like the little spikes.

Indian Pipes are always a fun find. I'm always shocked when people tell me they've never seen them before since they are quite common. This is NOT a fungus or mushroom, but a parasitic plant with no chlorophyll.

Just the tiniest hint of fall. This leaf was only about a half-inch across.

Finally, the hikers, April and Rich. They were only doing a day hike, but they are in training for a backpacking trip, so they wore their full packs.

I did some other odds and ends, but nothing huge.

North Country Trail, Mac Rd to 3 Mile Rd and back. 4 miles.

See McCarthy Lake - Day 427