Sunday, July 13: Wawayanda State Park, Eastern Trails

Meet at 7:30 am in the parking lot at the end of Cherry Ridge Road, Hewitt, NJ (near 152 Cherry Ridge Road, Hewitt, NJ).

Wawayanda State Park is a massive parcel of public land  in the northern Highlands region of New Jersey. Because of its relatively high elevation, the park’s unique combination of ecosystems includes mixed coniferous forests, herbaceous bogs, creeks and ponds, and the 2,617-acre Wawayanda Swamp, the largest Atlantic white cedar swamp remaining in inland New Jersey. This diversity of habitats creates a refuge for breeding birds usually associated with more northern regions. In recent years, birds that have bred here include the ruffed grouse, red-shouldered hawk, barred owl, blue-headed vireo, brown creeper, winter wren, veery, dark-eyed junco, northern waterthrush, and Blackburnian, black-throated green, black-throated blue, and Canada warblers. The area also has historical breeding records of species such as the sharp-shinned hawk and Nashville and magnolia warblers. 

We will be walking over about 4.5 miles of rolling terrain and on the extensive boardwalks through Wawayanda Swamp. We expect to finish by 12:30 pm, but those who want to can easily find the way back to their cars and leave earlier. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and long pants for insect protection. Bring binoculars, a sunhat, sunscreen, insect repellent, at least half a gallon of water, rain gear, and snacks. We will meet rain or shine. Restroom facilities are available before or after the hike at the park office off Warwick Turnpike; of course, the facili-trees are always available, if you don’t mind roughing it. Feel free to make contact with Peter Roy at 201 273-1059 with any questions. 

Monday, July 28: Mill Creek Marsh, Secaucus

Meet at 8:30 am in the parking lot by the Mill Creek Marsh entrance near Bob’s Discount

Furniture.

Less than a month after the last northbound semipalmated sandpipers have left us, the first

returning birds appear. Their numbers slowly increase through July, then explode in the last

days of the month, when many thousands of adult semipalmateds gather at high tide on the

ancient cedar stumps of Mill Creek Marsh. Presenting the most impressive wildlife spectacle in

our area, these birds are often joined by lesser numbers of least sandpipers, greater and lesser

yellowlegs, solitary sandpipers, and short-billed dowitchers, and there is always the possibility

of a surprise rarity.

We will walk a leisurely mile on wide, level trails. The shorebirds are often very close to the

path on the rising tide, but binoculars or a spotting scope will give you the best views. Dress for what may well be hot and humid weather; a broad-brimmed hat and sunscreen are advised. Insects are rarely a problem here, though there may be a mosquito or two if the day is unusually calm. Bring plenty of water and a snack; restrooms are available at Bob’s, which

opens at 10 am.

Driving directions to Mill Creek Marsh Trail, 3 Mill Creek Drive, Secaucus, are here.

Contact mbcoutings@gmail.com for more information and in case of inclement weather.