The woods were mostly bare with several downed tree trunks. 
Some smaller trees, including this American Beech (Fagus grandifolia) hadn’t lost their leaves and broke the monotony of bare trees.
This was one of the few ‘bushes’ in the woods. 
A closer look. It was more a series of long thorns with connecting stems. It didn’t have any leaves. I know I’ve seen photos of it somewhere but can’t remember what it is. Can anyone help me identify this plant?
A couple of Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) seedpods. The ground was littered with them.
Clumps of wild onions dotted the landscape. I’ve never seen these bloom. Looked like something had nibbled on these.
The East Mulberry Trail, which had crossed the open meadow entered the woods again.
Another fallen tree. The trunk was covered with bracket fungi, probably Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor), which is common in these woods. These were well past their prime.
The Carriage Trail (D), a paved, multi-use trail, connects the meadow trails with the Miller Lake Trail. 
More leave. A maple tree this time.
Another American Beech tree by the trail. There were a lot of small trees in this area with leaves still attached. These were a welcome change from the bare woods.
A close up of their leaves.
There were also several holly trees in this area of the woods.
And mounds of moss. This was the most impressive mound.
Almost at the end of the East Meadow Trail.
The mile marker at the end of the trail.Click on an image to view a larger image
Resource:
- Gwinnett Parks and Recreation: Little Mulberry Park
Related posts:
- Gwinnett County: Little Mulberry Creek Park – East Meadow Trail (Part 1)
- Gwinnett County: Little Mulberry Creek Park – West Meadow Trail
- Gwinnett County: Little Mulberry Park – Miller Lake Trail
Your spiny bush reminds me of Gorse that I have seen in Great Britain.
ReplyDeleteThat's a thought although Gorse flowers in winter-spring in Europe and this shows no sign of flowering.
ReplyDeleteI'm probably going to have to check it several times a year until I solve the mystery. Unfortunately, this park is a good way from home and not one that I can just 'stop by' easily. Ah well...