The hike in the south portion of Stokes State Forest in NJ was so enjoyable, I went back to explore the north side. The Appalachian Trail continues through this part, and there’s a fire tower to find. So I started on Stony Brook trail, then to the AT and fire tower, and returned via the Tower Trail.
Up at the fire tower, I was lucky to meet up with a nice family and their three dogs, which were also super friendly, so I was able to get my puppy fix. They chose to go up the fire tower, I still have some fear of heights, so I ‘may’ go back and try it, when I’m alone. Mainly because I’ve been seeing funny posts about “Do things that scare your family and friends”! 😉
I also sat and did a quick urban sketch of the view of Stony Lake:
Sketched from the fire tower site
I also did a few sketches at home – of the fire tower, stepping stones over a creek and some dwarf ginseng. The starlike shape was fascinating, and online was this description of its flowers – “…dull white umbels rising from a whorl of three compound leaves”.
Fire tower, creek crossing and dwarf ginseng
Looks like I’ll be heading back to Stokes soon! There’s lots more trails to explore, especially the one named “Gigi Lane”! (That’s me!) 
