151 



Trip of October 7. Bearfort Mountain, Surprise Lake 

 and the UNKNOWN Pond, Passaic Co., N. J. 



The group of ten members making the trek up and over the 

 Schunemunk conglomerate to Lookout Rock found the scene 

 there, and beyond, so glorious that mere botanizing was for- 

 gotten temporarily. When, after a series of rainy week-ends, 

 we were greeted by the first good Sunday of the fall season 

 great was the rejoicing. No early frost had reached the heights 

 and at the foot of the trail were noted numerous asters in full 

 bloom, among them: — A. ericoides, A. cordifolius, A. undulatus, 

 and a hybrid or two, and up the trail A. acuminatus . 



Potentilla monspeliensis was conspicuous among other late 

 blooming summer species, as we started the ascent. 



Over the rocky ridges were noted those plants that are 

 typical of the region: — viz. — Aronia melanocarpa thriving in 

 the interstices of the rocks, bearing much fruit. Primus Penn- 

 sylvania, Quercus ilicifolia, Betula populifolia, and a surprising 

 spread of Aralia hispida. Several lingering specimens of Cory- 

 dalis sempervirens were found to be in bloom, as well as Vaccin- 

 ium pennsylvanicum . 



So clear was the day that the Catskill peaks were visible 

 far northward, and the tower at High Point Park was plainly 

 discernible. A stiff breeze greeted us on the summit, so we 

 lunched at Surprise Lake. 



Here, far from the haunts of man, and where silence reigned 

 supreme, we invited our souls. Patches of Woodwardia virginica 

 and Chamaedaphne calyculata bordered the shore toward the 

 outlet. Resplendent Nyssas enhanced the beauty of the spot. 

 In the bog were hastily noticed, Drosera rotundifolia and Sarra- 

 cenia purpurea. 



A conference was held as to which course to pursue; to ex- 

 plore hereabouts or push on for the Unknown Pond. The latter 

 choice proved unanimous. In consequence some good foot work 

 was accomplished, even to getting off the trail at intervals, and 

 the objective was reached just in time to consider the return 

 in order to emerge from the woods before dusk and in time to 

 catch the only train home! Certain members would have pre- 

 ferred lingering, even at the risk of being marooned! 



Azalea viscosa, Nemopanthus mucronata and Picea rubra 

 were noted. 



