Berry Trail
Within the depths of Wharton State Forest lies a secret, undisclosed trail. This trail features numerous berry bushes that bloom during the summer months. Many of these bushes have smooth, oval-shaped leaves. Their leaves may change color as early as August. They are non-thorn bushes.
This bush does not even have any huckleberries but the leaves are changing color
This is what mountain laurels look like after ripening and when the plant matures
Ripe Berries
From July to September, the huckleberries will ripen and turn blue. This is when they are at their peak quality. Never pick or eat huckleberries at any state park or preserve. These are for wild animals to eat and are an essential part of the New Jersey pinelands' ecosystem.
Crowded huckleberry bush
Single huckleberry
Full huckleberry plant
Sheep and Mountain Laurels
During early September to October, the flower will shrivel up. The leaves may change color, and the plant will not bloom again until late spring.
Lone stem sheep laurel
Mature sheep laurel
Mountain laurel closeup