Something I really enjoy about visiting the same trails multiple times through out the year is seeing how the land changes with the seasons. There are a number of locations in the Indiana Dunes which I am particularly drawn to, and which I usually photograph from the same vantage point each time I am there.
This is one such spot in the Indiana Dunes State Park along what is known as the trail #2-10 loop. Not far from the nature center there is a short boardwalk across a narrow stretch of the marsh.
Late May 2021. The marsh here is a fairly narrow strip bounded on the north and south by forested areas as indicated by the tree lines. The marsh is full of early growth, but has not yet completely filled out. The mosquitos are usually not out in force yet, and it is a good time to spot frogs out on the lilly pads.
Mid July 2023. By this time the marsh has largely filled in with vibrant greenery all across its length. The mosquitos are pretty brutal out here at this time of year, even with repellant I still come home with a couple dozen fresh bites.
Late Sept. 2023. Some of the foliage has already pulled back and the autumn colors are beginning to show nicely. Mosquitos are still present, but in considerably fewer numbers. As in late spring, this is a good time of year to spot Bullfrogs out sunning themselves.
Late January 2023. I saved the best for last, probably my favorite time of year to be out on the trails. There is just something really special about the land in the depths of winter that really appeals to me.
