Try to explain the ecosystem around Big Thicket National Preserve. Is it swamp? Is it desert? Coastal plain? Midwest prairie? Nature appears to have brought together numerous ecosystems that are normally found thousands of miles apart, and put them all within a few miles in this Preserve.

Higher lands and ridges feature longleaf pine and other plants normally found in the north. Other areas feature sandy, dry land with flora like cactus and yucca. Then there is the savannah, with poor drainage and standing water. In the lowest lands, one find cypress growing in swamp lands.

After a stop at the very nice Visitor's Center, where a short film explains the environment and people of the area, I drove to one of the nearby trailheads. Despite my ongoing leg pain, I decided I was going to take a walk on the trail. I was able to do about one mile, wishing I could have gone further. The trail headed down from higher ground to a swampy wetlands. Along the way, I contributed to a scientific study of the area!

On one of the bridges over the slowly moving water, there was a sign explaining the study, which partially depended on photographs taken at many times over many months. Bolted on to the bridge railing was a slot where one could slide a cell phone. This ensured all photos were from exactly the same spot and in the same direction. After taking a photo, the sign gave an email address for where it should be sent. So I did, and received a reply that it had been processed. I hope it contributed to the research!

This was one of those places where I wish I could have spent more time. It's a very quiet, peaceful and beautiful area. I had more time available in my schedule, but physical limitations prevented me from seeing all I wanted. Since I will pass nearby in the future when I head west to visit other sites, I may very well plan another day here post-back surgery, when I hope to be pain-free again!