This photoset is from a hike in the Wharton State Forest along the Mullica and Batsto rivers.  We set out searching for Platanthera species and were not disappointed; there were dozens of brilliant white Platanthera blephariglottis to be found.  There were a few Platanthera cristata, but they were already past their prime due to the prolonged heat wave this summer.  We also saw zillions of Gymnadeniopsis clavellata and a single late-flowering Pogonia ophioglossoides.  The scenery was spectacular, and there were bog asphodel blooming, too.  What a hike!

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