Spruce Flats Bog/Laurel Summit
An Autumn Color Walk was held at Laurel Summit Trails on Saturday, October 11th,
2008. Some met at the Panera Bread in Murrysville at 9AM, while the rest of the group met at Laurel Summit. This will probably be the last time we schedule our Autumn outing to coincide with Ligonier Days, as the roads were backed up for miles in every directionLocated via the parking area in Laurel Summit State Park, a boardwalk beckons visitors from the forest right into the heart of the Bog.
Originally misnamed for the virgin stand of Hemlocks that covered this volcanic [or glacial depression] mountaintop, this 28 acre area boasts a most unusual ecosystem for this area. Back in the early 20th century, the hemlocks were lumbered out, followed by devastating fires, burning away the upper layers of organic matter leaving no vegetation to soak up the plentiful rainfall. The area is believed to be nestled in a bowl of volcanic rock, allowing years of vegetation to compost, promoting unusual species of plants to establish.
As this was my first visit, I can only share my observations without the seasonal comparisons. However, I can't imagine a more colorful and unique display.
As I soaked up the serenity of the Fall colors...earthy tan of the swamp grass and the greens of the evergreens surrounding the area… my eyes were directed to the subtle yet striking points of red dotting the landscape. Clumps of scarlet pitcher plants are many, as are blueberry bushes, which by the way, were loaded with the sweetest berries I've ever tasted.
Large patches of sphagnum moss support cotton grass and tiny sundew and cranberry plants. These, as well as other species are more typically grown farther north.If one is still long enough, the shy cedar waxwing can be observed swooping by to feed on swamp insects.
I have read that it is slowly evolving back to a mature forest, although I only observed a half dozen or so red cedars standing stoically in the mud.
There was evidence of human activity recently, as the area surrounding the boardwalk was quite disturbed. One has to wonder what is to be gained in disrupting the beauty and delicate nature of such an area.
It is, without a doubt, a must-see for anyone interested in yet another unique natural feature of this great state.
The original plan was to finish the excursion at Ligonier Days, however it was terribly crowded. Instead, several of our group headed down into Jennerstown and had a memorable lunch at The Green Gables Restaurant. The unique structure provided for interesting photos and the fare was top-notch. A walk on the grounds afterward allowed a glimpse of a kingfisher along the water’s edge.
Kate Blackmore
