On Wednesday I hiked with neighbor Luke to Terrace Pond. Although there are No Swimming signs posted both at the beginning of the trail and at the pond itself, Luke assures me this used to be (and probably still is) a popular swimming hole.

The trail, like the other hike that Rick and I took back in the fall, is an uphill climb with a few rock scrambles. Here is Luke at the beginning of the trail.

And up the rocky trail we go! See the blue blaze marks on the rocks?

The view from the first uphill climb. Pretty! It was a gorgeous day: clear blue sky with not a cloud in it, perfect temperature, and lower humidity.

A bit further up the trail the rocks got a bit more dramatic. I wasn’t brave enough to join Luke in admiring the view. Can you blame me or do you think I’m a wimp? (Actually I was mindful of twisting my back again since it’s mostly healed.)

Luke thought this mushroom looked like a slightly over-cooked pancake and I agree.

The trail was easier than I thought it was going to be and after a few more rocky places and a few bogs we soon reached our destination: Terrace Pond.

The water was clear and calm. Bullfrogs were giving a concert from the edge of the pond sounding very much like they were plucking guitar strings. We stopped to eat a bite of lunch before heading back down.

Luke showed me this cool sheltering overhang that made a sort of cave. It would offer a lot of protection from the elements if you needed it.

Are you getting the idea that New Jersey is one rocky place?

These Indian Pipe Plants took advantage of a mulchy spot on the rocks.

The hike back down took about half the time of the hike up. All in all a very pleasant hike and a great way to spend a few hours. Next time we need to find the loop trail that goes all the way around the pond for more of a challenge!