Hyper Humus Swamps

Hyper Humus Marshes, Paulinskill River WMA, Hyponex Section (8/9/2014)

This was one of the most enjoyable hikes we have done in a long time. I first learned of this place, with a name that reminds me of Middle Eastern food, just two weeks ago after my friend Daniela asked me if I had ever heard of it. She wasted no time in putting together an amazing 6-mile loop that she hiked with wonder dog Shawnee last weekend.

This place is a birder's paradise! It is filled with beauty! And the weather was absolutely perfect today. Five minutes after we arrived a guy with a tripod and spotting scope arrived and lugged his equipment a mile into the swamps to do some serious birding. Wow, what a blast! We did just about every hikeable trail in the area, following Daniela's track and saw at least two dozen types of birds, many of which I was able to photograph. But some of those little critters were simply too fast. We'll be sure to return, if only to linger a bit more and see more birds. Bring your camera and your binoculars, and a hat!

Total distance hiked was 5.5 miles in 3 hours with loads of birding!

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