A Fall Foliage Drive

The above pictures are from our recent visit to Brown County State Park (Indiana).  There's a reason why this area is known and loved for it's Fall foliage.

Most places we visited on our trip East had experienced a pretty severe drought this past summer.  The Fall colors were not as bright as usual.  Some trees simply turned brown and lost their leaves.  I found the diversity of each area's native plant life allowed there to be beauty even when other trees are simply going to sleep for the winter.

The maples were especially beautiful in shades of yellow, gold, orange and red.  The oaks were usually a dark burgundy red.  There were quantities of acorns that will help the native wildlife during this coming winter.

It's a good reminder on several fronts:

1. A diversified landscape will provide beauty and health even when nature is not cooperating with every plant. 
2. Practice the ability to enjoy the plants that are beautiful at the moment.  For every person who was complaining about the lack of typical color - the majority were in "awe" looking at what was currently beautiful.  As you can see from the photos, this is still a wondrous place to visit in the fall.

Some facts about Brown County State Park:

• Located in Southern Indiana near picturesque Nashville Indiana.  
• It's an easy visit for everyone from children to seniors.  Admission cost is $7 for a car from out-of-state/$5 for in-state.
• It is Indiana's largest State park - 16,000 acres.
• There is camping, rental cabins, picnic areas, playgrounds, trails, pools, lakes, fishing, non-motorized boating, horses, biking and more.
• The park is beautiful through all the seasons because of the diversity of plant and wildlife.  
• Surrounding the park are little towns that play host to various lodging, vendors, crafts, arts, restaurants, entertainment, and the historical.
• It's near Parke County where October hosts the "Covered Bridge Festival" - more on that later.      

  If you'd like a little more information: http://www.browncounty.com/  or  http://www.ourbrowncounty.com/