Mendon Ponds Park

Last Saturday, we went to a new park to explore. Mendon Ponds Park offers several different trails, a pond, and a 'senses' garden. I'm sure there is much more to offer, but those are the things we experienced while there.

We took a long hike on one of the trails. I think it was about 3 miles....and Corbin enjoyed being the 'leader'. :) We had a good time trying to identify trees and birds. We saw many squirrels. The kids tried their hand at being 'trackers', but they did not get to see any fox or deer tracks. Along the trail we took were several huts, with information explaining what we may see while hiking. We learned about flora (plant life) and fauna (animal life) in the biome. We also got to read about birds and insects, and their habits. While reading about flora we learned that there are three types of lichen (I bet you always wondered about that!) and actually saw two types on our hike. :) I can't remember the names of the three now, so you should look it up if your interested. One was crustose; not sure about the other two.

While at the pond, we saw some Canadian geese and some Mallard ducks; that was interesting. Hailey was exploring amongst the reeds near the pond...we could never do this in Florida by the way due to alligators....and she discovered a bull frog. She was just amazed by that. Near the pond, there was a large, hilly space, so the kids had fun running as far as they could up and down the hills. If we are still here next winter, and it is allowed, those hills would be great for sledding! We'll have to check it out when the time comes.

The last thing we did was visit the 'senses' garden. There was actually a name for it but, again, I don't remember. :( This garden consisted of many different herbs(which Logan and I just studied in his schooling), a waterfall that we could feel (it was so nice and cool after working up a sweat), and several different types of chimes. It was a nice way to end our hike.

We then left the park and went out to lunch, just in time for the rain to move in. Overall, a great way to spend the morning. The kids had a terrific time, and Karl and I enjoyed just relaxing with the family. If you live here in New York, or if you ever visit our area, you should visit the park. You'll have fun and learn something, too!