Besides the falls themselves, Gooseberry Falls State Park can often be remembered for its striking orange lichen, a vivid pop of color against the rugged rocks along the North Shore. Species like the Elegant Sunburst Lichen (Rusavskia elegans) decorate the rocky cliffs with orange along the North Shore.
A variety of colorful lichen, with hues ranging from vibrant orange and green to grey, adds a unique contrast to the park’s rugged landscape and captures the eye of every passerby.
More than just a pretty color, these lichens are resilient workers in the ecosystem, thriving in the cool, moist environment. They play an essential role by slowly breaking down rocks into soil over time, creating the foundation for other plant life to grow. The lichens also provide valuable resources for local wildlife. Squirrels and other small animals nibble on them for energy, while birds like warblers and chickadees weave pieces into their nests. Gooseberry Falls State Park is the perfect place to slow down, take a closer look, and appreciate these vibrant, hardworking organisms.
