Thanksgiving Hikes

November Shore

Our unusual family Thanksgiving gathering this year took place near the ocean in Corolla, NC. Although there seemed to be fewer people present at this late autumn date compared to summer, the traffic on Route 12 was still significant. Shortly after arrival at our rental house on November 24th we headed out into cold air for a hike to the beach. As we left the driveway a low altitude afternoon Sun illuminated decorative grass near the street. 

The ocean was definitely not very inviting on this cold, windy day.

Rough surf differed from typically calm summer conditions. Slogging north up the mostly deserted beach into a strong chilly headwind drained my stamina. By the time we returned home I was ready to sit in a warm house.

Before the customary Thanksgiving dinner on November 25th we took another longer hike on the nearby Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary Nature Trail. Stunted deformed trees on both sides of the trail shielded us from wind. This trail would be great for running in fall or winter, but would likely be swarming with flies in summer.

Sunlight penetrated to isolated patches on the forest floor. One sunbeam landed on a single mushroom sprouting from a clump of moss. 

A ground-hugging vine had evenly spaced alternating leaves.

We came upon an unexpected small paved airstrip running parallel to the trail. No planes, hangers, or facilities were present. While exploring the airstrip Keegan, Sophie, Ellen, and their friends climbed onto one of the tree branches for a photo. 

Further along the trail was a side path leading to a viewing stand overlooking Currituck Sound. The panoramic image below shows the scene with afternoon sun reflected from the water. (Click on the image for a larger, better view.)

Ellen searched the horizon with binoculars while the kids had fun with cattails. 

The trail continued on beyond the overlook for quite a distance. Unfortunately, my energy level was nearing empty. This seems to be happening more frequently these days. So we turned around and returned to the trailhead. Although calories were burned on the hike, I'm sure many more were consumed at Thanksgiving dinner later that day!