Sunset at Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia, All Rights Reserved. They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area

Shot #1
18mm (29mm) f/11 @ 1/50s

Shot #2
18mm (29mm) f/11 @ 1/6s

Shot #3
21mm (34mm) f/11 @ 1/2s

Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area is part of the Monmouth County Park System and, according to their website, is "the last undeveloped tract on the Manasquan Inlet." It is a place that has been on my radar for a while and I have spend a lot of time on Google Maps/Google Earth exploring the area. I suspect it is rather crowded during the summer, as are most places along the Jersey Shore are, so I had set my sights on an autumn visit that never happened.

Last week I had "one of those days" at work and for my own sanity I packed up my gear, heading out to chase a sunset. Having checked the forecast and ClearOutside, then checking the location of the sun with SunCalc (see my review - here) I decided on Fisherman's Cove. I gave myself about a 50/50 chance of having good sunset conditions but any time out with a camera is a good time so off I went.

The sun was setting at 5:49 PM and I didn't arrive until shortly after 5:30 PM, usually I like to arrive at least 45 minutes to an hour early, especially when I am somewhere new. My Google Maps scouting time proved to be very useful as I already had my composition worked out before I even left the house. I set up and within a few minutes of arrival I had some test shots done and I was ready for the show to begin. The images presented here are shown in the order they were made.

Once I had Shot #1 in the bag I moved to my left a bit to see if that was a better composition - I wanted to take advantage of the curve in the beach and wasn't able to from my first position. The move proved to be just what I needed! While I like the first composition I feel the second to be considerably stronger. That's not to say there isn't room for a change - a lower perspective might be nice and moving more to the left and closer to the bench could get more of the curve of the beach. The more I look at what I captured, the more possibilities I come up with. I definitely need to go back a few more times before the crowds come.

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Technical information:
* Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i (crop sensor - 1.6 factor)
* Lenses: Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS
* Tripod: MeFOTO Roadtrip Classic
* ISO 100
* All focal lengths are as-recorded - the full-frame equivalent in parenthesis.
* Exposure and focus were "manual"*
* Shutter tripped with wired shutter release.

Note: I noted that my focusing and exposures were "manual" and here's why. When shooting a sunset (or sunrise) exposure can get a bit tricky at times and the meter may not give you the results you are looking for. In these cases I will use the histogram and the preview on the back screen as a guide. I have to be careful with shadows and take that into account with my exposure. Using manual focus is mostly for convenience. Since I am shooting a (mainly) static landscape once I set focus there is no need to change. Under most circumstances I will shoot using Aperture-priority and auto-focus.

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An Afternoon at Deep Cut Gardens

Deep Cut Gardens

When you take a flower in your hand and really look at it, it’s your world for the moment. I want to give that world to someone else. Most people in the city rush around so, they have no time to look at a flower. I want them to see it whether they want to or not. - Georgia O’Keeffe

Japanese Hairy Toad Lily

I took a much needed day off at the end of September and spent the day with my wife. For the first time this year we had lunch at our favorite diner, All Seasons Diner in Eatontown, and then, after a quick detour, headed for Deep Cut Gardens. We love going to the park but don't get there nearly as much as we would like. A Thursday afternoon seemed like a great time to go but there were quite a few people there, including at least four (4) other photographers and more than a few women with young children. If you aren't familiar with Deep Cut Gardens, you can check out my earlier blog post - Parks of Monmouth County - Deep Cut Gardens - and I will provide further links below. I will also provide some links to photographs on Instagram featuring Deep Cut Gardens - I encourage you to check them out and follow them. I do!

Zinnias along the Walkway

The walkway from the parking lot around to the Koi Pond is now lined with beautiful fall colors, replacing the tulips that thrive earlier in the year. This flower bed changes thru the year - the last time we were here the Park Rangers were digging up tulip bulbs and giving them away. We will have tulips next year! I have to admit, I spent a while scoping out this bed and trying a number of compositions but nothing really clicked except for the zinnia shown here. It happens sometimes; there is so much going on and I jump from one thing to another like a kid at Christmas. I must make a conscious effort to slow down and work a composition properly. The good news is that, after all these years, I can still get as excited about photography as I did more than 45 years ago when I first fell in love with it.

Celosia

Soon there were three (3) other photographers vying for space; it was time for me to move on. When I turned the corner to the Horticultural Center I was struck by these incredible golden spires, beyond them were bright red ones. These Celosia (see Celosia on Wikipedia) are simply magnificent. I made a few images before moving on to the “Main Event” – the Sargent’s weeping hemlocks and Parterre. The hemlocks are such beautiful, and surprisingly fragile, trees; we stopped to speak with Ranger Don who told us that the limbs sometimes must be supported in the winter if enough snow builds up on them. That is one reason why climbing, or sitting in, the trees is prohibited.

Upper Waterfall

There is a wonderful series of waterfalls & ponds nestled within the trees; perfect for a bit of long exposure photography. I reached for my Ice 72mm CaNDi-5 Solid ND 1.5 and Circular Polarizer Filter (5-Stop) to help cut the glare and provide me with a bit more latitude for my exposures. Each of the three (3) ponds have their own charm so I set out to capture each, trying exposures ranging from about 1/3 second to 2 seconds. I have included my favorite image here – to see the others, along with more Deep Cut Gardens images, check out my Behance Project - Deep Cut Gardens. It was right about now that my wife, I was there with my wife – remember, caught up with me. We sat on one of the benches under a tree to rest a bit. You see, when we go to the park, we tend to go our own way at times. She has her interests and I am like a butterfly moving from one composition to another. She uses her phone to capture and edit images and has become quite good; I would even say that she can out-shoot me some of the time. Don’t tell her that, it will be our little secret. It doesn’t take long before something catches my eye and I am heading towards the Parterre.

Zinnia #1
featured on Instagram by @NJinBloom
https://www.instagram.com/p/CFzcEGqgI_u/

The roses are mostly gone now but a few blooms remain, I used a couple of them to frame the pergola. Yes, I purposely have them out of focus…. No, I’m still not sure if it “works.” What do you think? Let me know in the comments. The destination was the pergola or, more specifically the flower beds in front of the pergola.

I thought the flower beds were a great opportunity, much like the flower beds in the parking lot. I tried focus-stacking an image using the front of the beds as a leading edge. I still believe there is an image there somewhere, but I didn’t find it that day. I did come away with a few individual blooms – the images here represent the best of them. I find myself attracted to the warm end of the spectrum when it comes to flowers which is a double-edged sword. They are strikingly beautiful but also rather difficult to photograph well. They tend to fool the camera’s meter and tend to be under-exposed. If you compensate too much they get washed out and look funny.

Zinnia #2

I did manage a few images of the red zinnias that are in the pergola flowerbeds, as you can see. I think I am doing better but need more practice; I suppose I am going to have to keep going back to Deep Cut Gardens. 😉

We decided to go back to the car by way of the greenhouse and Display Garden. This turned out to be the best thing I did all day; it brought me to the Japanese Hairy Toad Lily. I had never seen one of these before and I was captivated by it. Up to this point there was virtually no breeze at all but now that I wanted to get close, and these are on a long, thin, stalk, a slight breeze started. It was almost imperceivably but when I magnified the image to focus, you could see it moving. This flower is going to get a lot more attention whenever I go to the park.

The last stop was the Display Garden where I got to visit with a few of the locals, including a little Garden Fairy! The garden is a fenced in area filled with raised beds growing flowers, vegetables and herbs. Interspersed among the plants you can find some garden gnomes – a few of which I have here.

Garden Gnomes

For more information, check out these links:
• Monmouth County Park System - Deep Cut Gardens
• Deep Cut Gardens on Facebook
• NJspots.com - Smell the Roses at Deep Cut Gardens
• NJspots.com - 7 of the Best Gardens & Arboretums in the Garden State
• NJMom.com - Deep Cut Gardens in Middletown: Adventure Through 54 Acres of Gardens, Flowers, and Wildlife
• GetOutsideNJ - Deep Cut Gardens

Deep Cut Gardens on Instagram:
• Frank Morris - @pixel_plus_photos
• Lauren J. Cooke - @fnygrl
• Tricia Lea - @photography_by_tricia_lea
• Joe Matzerath - @joe_matzerath_photography
• Cheryl - @njgirl00adventures
• Lindsey - @livingthelifeoflindsey

If you enjoyed this post, please do me a small favor and share it with others. You will find buttons for many of the popular social media platforms at the bottom of this post. Thank you!

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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Monmouth County 9/11 Memorial

Eagle - 9/11 Memorial
Mount Mitchill, Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey

11 September 2001

"Are you ready? Okay. Let's roll." - Todd Beamer, passenger on Flight 93⁠

“If we learn nothing else from this tragedy, we learn that life is short and there is no time for hate.” - Sandy Dahl, wife of Flight 93 pilot Jason Dahl, in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, in 2002⁠

⁠“I will never forget seeing what hate can destroy… I will never forget seeing what love can heal…” - Steve Maraboli⁠

⁠“It was as if real life had been canceled for the day.” - Jennifer Weiner⁠

⁠These are just a few of the many quotes concerning the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001. The eagle in this image sits atop a marble base engraved with the names of the 147 men and women born, raised, or residing at the time in Monmouth County who lost their lives in the attack.⁠ You can read more about the memorial by visiting the web page - here.

The Memorial

When you arrive at the park, drive around the parking lot until you get to the staircase. When standing at the bottom of the stairs you can see the eagle perched atop the memorial and a part of the twisted beam in it's talons. The twisted beam came from one of the Twin Towers. When you get to the top of the stairs you will begin a walk along the timeline of the attacks, beginning at 7:30 AM and ending at 10:29 AM when the North Tower of the World Trade Center collapses.

There are engraved stones in the sidewalk with times and engraved plaques along the side explaining the significance of the time. Unfortunately someone stole some of the plaques and, as of this writing, they haven't been replaced yet.

Eagle with Sandy Hook and New York City skyline under it's wing.
Mount Mitchill, Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey
(focus stacked image)

The park, itself, is rather small but quite beautiful. There are two seating areas where you can look out over the river to Sandy Hook and beyond to New York. If you wish to get "up close and personal" you can use the coin-operated binoculars situated in front of the benches. On a clear day, the view can be quite stunning.

If you are in the area, I encourage you to stop by and visit the park. It is quite a solemn place and a very nice tribute to those who lost their lives on that tragic morning.

Directions:

FROM GARDEN STATE PARKWAY: Exit 117, follow Hwy. 36 East (about 13 miles) to jughandle signs for "Red Bank/Scenic Road." Follow signs to Park.

FROM SANDY HOOK/SEA BRIGHT: Hwy. 36 (Ocean Ave) North over Highlands Bridge to Navesink Ave./Scenic Road. Stay to right and follow signs to Park.

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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Parks of Monmouth County - Manasquan Reservoir

Sunset @ Chestnut Point

Manasquan Reservoir

Welcome to another installment of my series - Parks of Monmouth County. In this installment I will be discussing Manasquan Reservoir in Howell. There are three (3) parking areas, Chestnut Point, Environmental Center and Visitor Center, each providing access to one or more trails and each affording their own incredible views of the reservoir.

The thing that draws me to the park more than anything else would be the dead trees in and around the water. It can be difficult to find interesting compositions of large lakes but the trees are perfect, as are the rocks around the perimeter of the reservoir. The trees make great subjects for silhouettes, like in the black & white image below.

The Trails - Environmental Center

Bracken Trail

I just recently discovered the Bracken Trail, it made for a nice hike after work. It is a half-mile Pedestrian Only, EASY, trail with informational placards describing the flora and fauna you are likely to encounter during your hike. There are a few spots along the way that afford a wonderful view of the reservoir.

Cove Trail

The Cove Trail is a 1 mile, MODERATE, trail bringing you thru the wetlands near the Environmental Center. This is a Pedestrian Only trail. This was the first trail I hiked at the reservoir and enjoyed it. There are some small grades and the trail is a bit rough at times; you have to watch for roots and rocks and the trail can be narrow in spots.

Footbridge on Wetland Spur

The Trails - Visitor Center

Bear Swamp Connector

Bear Swamp Connector is a .7 mile EASY trail that connects the reservoir to Oak Glen Park, a Howell Township municipal park. This is the only trail that I haven't hiked and so I don't know anything about it.

Wetland Spur

The Wetland Spur is a .2 mile trail connecting the Visitor Center parking lot with the Perimeter Trail. This is the trail that I most frequently find myself as there is a small bridge that affords terrific views on both sides. If you are a photographer, this is one of the best places to explore. There are endless compositions and the landscape is ever-changing.

Sunrise @ Chestnut Point

Perimeter Trail

The Perimeter Trail is a 5.1 mile MODERATE multi-use trail. The trail is reasonably flat and well-maintained, you still need to be mindful of rocks and roots because you will be in the woods for much of the way around. The trail starts at the Visitor Center although you can enter the trail at any of a number of places. If you start at the Visitor Center and hike counter-clockwise, you can use the mileposts along the way to track your progress.

Other Activities

Boating & Fishing

Boating is permitted, including boats with electric motors. Boat rentals are available, in season. If you bring your own boat, there is a launch fee - check website for current fees and restrictions. All boaters must wear approved personal flotation devices at all times on the water.

Sunrise in black & white

The reservoir is stocked with large and small-mouth bass, hybrid striped bass, tiger muskie, bullhead catfish and various species of panfish. A valid New Jersey freshwater fishing license is required for all fisherman between the ages of 16 and 69.

Biking

Bikes are allowed on three (3) of the five (5) trails - the exceptions being Bracken & Cove trails and rentals are available at the Visitor Center between May 23 and October 30, weather permitting. Of course, you are welcome to use your own bicycle but remember, the trails are unpaved so leave your expensive road bike at home.

Playground

There is a nature-themed playground near the Visitor Center for children.

Environmental Center

The Environmental Center has something for everyone, including nature programs, interactive exhibits and a live view of a bald eagle nest. If you want to do some exploring on your own, you can get a free "Safari Backpack" to help you with your self-guided nature walk. The backpacks are free but you need to leave a valid New Jersey drivers license. The programs at the center are free and many are "self-directed" - check the website for dates and times as they change.

The Environmental Center is open for area groups, offering a wide-range of activities, including boat tours and kayaking. You can get more information on the Environmental & Outdoor Education Programs for Groups page.

For a full list of the series, with links, check out the "Parks of Monmouth County" page.

How to get there

• Garden State Parkway to Exit 98, Interstate 195 west. Proceed on I-195 west to Exit 28B, Rt. 9 north-Freehold. Stay in right lane when entering Rt. 9 north. At first traffic light, turn right onto Georgia Tavern Road. Follow Georgia Tavern Road for 0.3 mile. Continue straight for Environmental Center on right or turn right onto Windeler Rd. and continue 1.5 miles to the Visitor Center Reservoir Area on left.
• State Hwy. 9 south from Freehold to Georgia Tavern Rd. Use Jughandle to turn left onto Georgia Tavern Rd. Proceed as above.

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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Parks of Monmouth County - Turkey Swamp Park

Turkey Swamp Park

Early Fall Panorama from Boat Dock

Welcome to the third installment of my series - Parks of Monmouth County. I have come to fall in love with Turkey Swamp Park over the past few years. The park is rather unique from all the others in the Monmouth County Park System in that it is the only park to post warnings about black bear. I don't recall reading about any bear sightings at the park but the brochure and park bulletin board issue warnings.

Turkey Swamp Park is a wooded park just under 2,300 acres in size located in Freehold with something for everyone. There is a 17-acre lake for fishing, boating and ice skating; you can bring your own boat or rent a boat, canoe or kayak. Please note that there is no boat ramp and you must carry your boat from the parking lot; no gas motors, electric motors are permitted. If you plan on fishing and are between the ages of 16 and 69, you must possess a valid New Jersey Freshwater Fishing License. If camping is in your future, Turkey Swamp is a great place to stay. They have two (2) different camping areas, one for Family camping and another for Group camping. I have camped a few times in the group area when my son was in Cub Scouts and had a great time. The main attraction, for me at least, are the trails. There are seven (7) trails of EASY and MODERATE difficulty ranging in length of about a mile to 2.5 miles. I have hiked the three EASY trails more than once and hope to get to the other three trails in the coming months. Lastly, there are a number of picnic areas, a couple playgrounds and the main Shelter Building. The Blueberry Path & Metedeconk Trail are accessible from the Nomoco Activity Area while all others are directly accessible from the Main Entrance on Georgia Road. The northern trail head for the Metedeconk Trail is accessible via the Link or Fitness Trail. I will have links to brochures you can view or download at the end of this post.

Mushroom along Alder Trail

Lake as seen from the Alder Trail

The Trails

Turkey Swamp Park, like most (all?) of the other parks, offers a Fitness Trail. I am not going to write about it as I haven't used the trail but wanted to mention it. It is a 1 mile trail along the outside of the big field on the west side of the park. There are 20 stations, each representing a different exercise or stretching regimen. I've also not hiked the Metedeconk Trail (1 mile MODERATE) or Blueberry Path (1 mile MODERATE) so I won't be writing about them. I will, at some point, hike and write about both. Stay tuned!

Alder Trail

The Alder Trail is a 1.6 mile EASY trail that takes you all around the lake. This is the trail I hike most often - if you can only hike one trail, make it this one. The trail takes you thru the Sandy Run Picnic Area which is where you would have found the boat dock shown in the image above (see Endnote below.) While the trail is rated as "easy" you need to be vigilant while hiking thru the wooded sections and keep your eyes on the trail in front of you - roots and stumps litter the trail and it is easy to trip over one. While hiking the trail you will come to a few spots that afford a wonderful view of the lake, if you approach quietly and keep an eye open you might catch a glimpse of a great white egret or great blue heron. Of course, spotting deer on any of the trails is always a possibility, particularly when you get to the big field on the east side of the lake.

Along the Old Lenape Trail

Old Lenape Trail

The Old Lenape Trail is another 1.2 mile EASY trail, this one is entirely wooded and takes you around the Family Campground. The trail is named for the Lenape Indian tribe who were indigenous to the area. As with the Alder Trail, keep a lookout for rogue roots, stumps and rocks that can trip you up along the way. I have hiked this trail a few times and always found deer along the way; the woods can get a bit thick at times and often I didn't know the deer were there until I caught a fleeting glimpse of them running deeper into the woods. As you can see from the image to the left, the woods are a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees and most of the area is covered in a lush carpet of leaves and needles. I love finding intimate scenes like this while hiking, landscape photography isn't always about the grand vistas and sweeping panoramas. To me, this image captures the essence of being in the woods in autumn - no better place nor better time of year.

Link Trail

The Link Trail is a .7 mile EASY trail that allows you to extend the length of your hike by acting as a "link" between Old Lenape Trail and Metedeconk Trail or Fitness Trail. The second time I hiked Old Lenape I took the Link over to the field, followed the Fitness Trail to Alder Trail and back to the parking lot. It made for a nice, long hike with a varied environment.

Manasquan Trail

Manasquan Trail

The Manasquan Trail is a 2.5 mile MODERATE trail that starts on the Alder Trail, runs north and connects with the Old Lenape Trail on the way back. Though the trail itself is 2.5 miles, the entire hike is considerably longer - I hiked it for the first time this week and I covered just over 4.3 miles. I started at the Shelter, took the Alder Trail to Manasquan Trail and then back to the shelter via Old Lenape Trail. This is another heavily forested trail which runs along the Manasquan River in sections. The trail definitely deserves it's MODERATE rating due to some of the terrain and it's length. There are a couple small uphill grades but they are gradual and not very long. The trail, for the most part, is well defined and wide but it does become nothing more than a narrow passage shortly before you get to the river at the furthest point of the trail.

Metedeconk Trail

The Metedeconk Trail is a 1 mile MODERATE trail beginning at the Nomoco Activity Center. I haven't hiked this trail yet so I will refer you to the brochure for more information about it.

Blueberry Path

The Blueberry Path is a 1 mile MODERATE loop at the southern most section of the Nomoco Activity Center. I haven't hiked this trail yet so I will refer you to the brochure for more information about it.

Endnote: The wooden dock shown in "Early Fall Panorama from Boat Dock" is no longer there. It has been replaced by a larger, fiberglass dock and the trail leading to it has been enlarged.

For a full list of the series, with links, check out the "Parks of Monmouth County" page.

Brochures

• Turkey Swamp Park Brochure & Map
• Campground Brochure
• Nomoco Group Campground Brochure

How to get there

• NJ Turnpike to Exit 7A to Interstate 195 east. Follow I-195 east. Follow I-195 to exit 22. Turn left onto Jackson Mills Rd. north. Follow Jackson Mills Rd. to Georgia Rd., turn left and follow 1.7 miles to main park entrance.
• Garden State Parkway to Exit 98 to Interstate 195 west. I-195 west to Exit 22. Turn right onto Jackson Mills Rd. north; follow Jackson Mills Rd. to Georgia Rd.; turn left and follow 1.7 miles to main park entrance.
• State Hwy. 9 to route 524 west. Follow 524 west to Georgia Rd., turn left and follow Georgia Rd. 1.7 miles to main entrance.
• Nomoco Activity Area Is located 1.5 miles past the main park entrance. Continue south on Georgia Rd. to Nomoco Rd.; turn right and follow signs to Activity Area.

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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Parks of Monmouth County - Thompson Park

Thompson Park - Lincroft

Welcome to another installment of my series - Parks of Monmouth County. I started this series in May 2017 with the intention of writing about a different park each month - well, life got in the way and I got involved with other projects so I fell a bit behind. I will try to bring more in a more timely manner. 🤞

For a full list of the series, with links, check out the "Parks of Monmouth County" page.

Thompson Park has been the scene of several other posts in the past (I will list a few at the end) but I have never written about the park, in general, until now. The park is located on Route 520 (Newman Springs Road) in Lincroft, adjacent to Brookdale Community College. I worked about three miles away for a while in 2011/2012 and used to go to the park quite a bit - most lunch hours and often after work. There are a number of wooded trails that I enjoyed hiking thru, as-well-as paved trails. If you are quiet and remain alert, you are almost guaranteed to come across deer and, if you are lucky, a good-sized buck like the one shown here. I came across this guy during one of my lunch hikes, I had no idea he was there until something caught my eye - I turned and was able to grab a couple shots before he turned and ran off.

Trails

The trail here is the Track Loop, an easy 1 mile oval that is a favorite for runners. You can branch off this trail onto the Wanderer Trail which brings you into the field and is a nice little change from the dirt trail. If you are looking for a quick, wooded hike check out the Woodland Trail and consider taking the Marshy Walk along with it. The hawk shown here was taken on the Woodland Trail.

My favorite trail is the longer (4.8 mile) Reservoir Loop which runs from one end of the park to the other, most of the time surrounded by woods. There is the Swimming River Reservoir on one end and Marlu Lake on the other and you are almost certain to come across deer in your travels. The buck shown above was taken on the Reservoir Loop and the geese were on Marlu Lake. If you want an easy, paved trail for a leisurely walk you can try the Inner Loop or the Thompson Loop, 1.2 miles and 4.2 miles respectively. The Thompson Loop runs along the perimeter of the park and along local roads - it is ideal for walking or bike riding. All of the trails are rated as Easy or Moderate.

Wildlife

While I am mainly a landscape photographer I am drawn to the wildlife at Thompson Park more than the landscape. The park is quite beautiful but my money is on the hawks, deer and other fauna that I routinely come across. I don't think there was a single hike where I didn't encounter at least one deer and I always see hawks; though the close encounter depicted here is very rare.

There was one hike that afforded me the chance to photograph a garter snake and the lake is always alive with waterfowl - whether the geese shown here or ducks. The lake provides an opportunity to fish, whether from the shore or boat. You may bring your own boat or rent a canoe or kayak, either way, don't forget your freshwater fishing license.

Recreation

Hiking and fishing aren't the only activities available - there are picnic areas, a playground, open fields and even an "off-leash" dog area. If you want a workout, you can play tennis or pickleball on one of four tennis courts or reserve one of the athletic fields for a game - Ultimate, maybe?

The Visitor Center is housed in the mansion not far from the park entrance where you can pick up information abut the park and check out some of the exhibits. Finally, the Creative Arts Center offers many programs for people of all ages and skill levels - I suggest checking out the website to see what activities are scheduled.

In Closing

It should come as no surprise when I say that Thompson Park should added to your regular rotation. There is something for everyone, any time of year. I would caution you to check the park's website during deer hunting season because it is closed to the public during certain hours of the day.

If you have been to the park, let me know what you love about it. If you have a park that you think I would enjoy or that you would like to see me write about, leave me a comment below - I would love to hear from you.

Links

• Thompson Park
• Shhhh – there’s a deer but where are my keys?
• Improve Your Photography: f/8 and be there

How to get there

From the North:

• Garden State Parkway to Exit 109, turn left onto Rt. 520 West, 2.2 miles to Park (past M.T. Thompson park and Brookdale College entrance ) on left.
• State Highway 34 to Route 520, turn left. Follow Rt. 520 east to Park entrance.

From the South:

• Garden State Parkway to Exit 109, turn right onto Rt. 520 West (Newman Springs Rd.), 2.2 miles to Park (past M.T. Thompson park and Brookdale College entrance ) on left.
• State Highway 34 to Route 520, turn right east to Park entrance.

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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Parks of Monmouth County - Deep Cut Gardens

Welcome to the initial installment of a new series - Parks of Monmouth County. I will publish a new park on the 1^st day of each month; the posts will spotlight the beauty of the parks and share some of my favorite trails or attractions at each. I am writing this on a rainy April afternoon and the rhyme "April showers bring May flowers" popped into my head. I thought, since this is going to be published in May then maybe it should be about flowers. In my mind there is no better park for flowers than Deep Cut Gardens in Middletown, New Jersey.

For a full list of the series, with links, check out the "Parks of Monmouth County" page.

Tulips at Deep Cut Gardens

I made my first trip to the park in 2012 and have been back a number of times since. The tulip bed shown here is one of the first images I made there and I didn't even have to leave the parking lot! This was taken in April 2012 and all of the tulips were in full bloom - this is the main tulip bed but they can also be found in other areas of the park and the median strip in the parking lot. It doesn't matter when you go to the park because this flower bed always has something to see, depending on what is in season. Below is a similar image of the same flower bed but taken in August 2014.

Daisies at Deep Cut Gardens

If you walk past this bed and around the corner you will find the Koi Pond where you can sit on a bench, admiring the fish and flowers planted around the walkway. Continue past the pond to the Visitor Center; stop in and say hello to the staff - they are very friendly and extremely knowledgeable. They can help you identify something you saw in the park (although everything is usually well labeled) or fill you in on any interesting "visitors" there may have been - deer or hawks, for instance.

 

When you leave the Visitor Center continue your journey to the Rose Parterre - you will be glad you did. The panorama at the top of the page shows the entire parterre; it is even more beautiful in-person. When the roses are in bloom it is so colorful and fragrant you may never want to leave. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden, taking in the beauty. Each plant is identified so that you know exactly what you are looking at. I guarantee you will see a variety of rose that you never knew existed. There are benches on either side or you can go sit in the shade of the gazebo before continuing. Don't make the mistake that flowers are the only things to see; this tree is just a few short yards from the parking lot, just before the koi pond. It is just one of many throughout the park. You will find these trees along either side of the walk/stairs leading from the Visitor Center to the Rose Parterre. Park benches can be found under the trees, many of which have a small pond next to them. These benches make wonderful resting spots - you are out of the sun and can see a world of beauty spread out below you.

While walking make sure to keep an eye out for the fauna that take up residence in the park. My wife and I found this little guy while walking along one of the wooded paths. You will also find chipmunks, squirrels and deer to name but a few. Look up to the sky and you are bound to see a red-tailed hawk circling overhead, I don’t think I have been to the park yet where I haven’t seen at least one. Birders would do well to bring their binoculars, too.

I think this is a good place to end the words and leave you with a few more images from my trips. I hope you will put Deep Cut Gardens on your “to-do” list and visit at least once.

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All photos are copyright Joseph S. Valencia All Rights Reserved They may not be used in any way without express written permission of the photographer. If you wish to use any of the photos you may contact the photographer at valencia32photo@gmail.com

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