The Eastern Prickly Pear (Opuntia humifusa) is Connecticut’s only native cactus, complete with the fleshy green pads and generous jacket of spines that we’ve come to associate almost exclusively with the arid regions of the Southwestern US, Mexico and Central and South America.

Probably owing to the unique legend associated with Devil’s Hopyard State Park, the potholes found there at Chapman Falls are some of the most well-known in the entire state.

Most revered perhaps of all the Hawaiian gods, Madam Pele is the center of much Hawaiian mythology and folklore. Goddess of fire and volcanoes, Pele’s power is seen throughout the creation and history of the islands.

Macricostas Preserve (in Washington, Connecticut) is the newest of the Steep Rock Association’s preserves and was established only 11 years ago; a mere blink-of-an-eye when you consider that Steep Rock Preserve has been around for nearly 90 years (albeit at a smaller acreage than it currently encompasses). Nonetheless, this 368-acre property fits snugly into the fantastic holdings of the Steep Rock Association and boasts a wide range of interesting habitats that benefit wildlife just as much they impress visiting hikers.

“There is a true peace and serenity that can be felt while floating amongst these majestic mountains,” Trails of Freedom follower Ingrid Crocco reports. On her recent visit to Nepal, Ingrid had the opportunity to take a mountain plane through the great Himalayas, and has thankfully shared her pictures and stories with us.

Green Frogs (Rana clamitans) are truly ubiquitous throughout Connecticut. But why are these frogs so common? How did they come to be some of the most successful frogs in the entire state?

Nestled along the trails of the islands, or perhaps placed before a majestic waterfall, hikers in Hawai’i may notice rocks wrapped in Ti leaves, as seen above in this photo from Waihe’e Falls. Many recognize this action as a prayer or offering, a sacred tradition of our island nation. But these rock offerings are highly controversial, and this practice which was commonly believed to be part of the island culture may actually be a very offensive gesture.

Hikers or beach visitors that happen upon a horseshoe crab will be interested to know that they are one of the oldest forms of ocean-going arthropods in existence today.

The Old Lyme Land Trust actually purchased the parcel at Watch Rock from the Locktite Corporation, which had originally planned on developing it as the site of their company headquarters. Had things gone just a bit differently, the only visitors to Watch Rock these days might have been wearing ties, carrying briefcases, and “hiking” down corridors lined with offices. Connecticut, and the United States at large, will be faced with many tough decisions in the future as to how the ever-growing needs of habitation, commerce and industry will be balanced with the health and well-being of the natural environment.

The wild Rosebay Rhododendrons surround almost every inch of the trail, towering up to 30 feet above the forest floor. The brilliant white and pink flowers add a stark contrast to the lush green trees and ferns.