First Landing State Park-3/6/2012

It was a picture perfect hiking day: just a little chilly, brilliant blue skies, and plenty of sunshine. I was pleased to have twenty-eight members of the Tuesday Group join me for a hike on the wild side (the 64^th Street side) of First Landing State Park. Dewey, Dottie, and Diana (the “D” section), Phyllis and her canine crew, Sandra and Dylan (and his ball), Marti and Ellis, Carl and his GPS, Kama and Natalie, and quite a few Bobs were among those that came out. (My apologies to the other half of the group… While I can’t put the all names with all the right faces yet, I’m working on it!)

We headed down the Cape Henry Trail and cut over to the Long Creek Trail on our way to the Osprey Trail. We lunched on the sandy little beach at the base of THE HILL and enjoyed the dappled shade of a huge Live Oak tree. Those who listened heard the lapping waves whisper an invitation to linger a little longer contentedly watching the sunlight sparkle and dance in the waves of Broad Bay. They might also have perceived the far less subtle calls of the Kingfisher and the Pileated Woodpecker.

After our meal, we charged THE HILL, and began the loop back on the Long Creek Trail. From there, we took the road less traveled: an unnamed trail along an ancient dune line. Along the way, we were serenaded by amphibians. (Frogs, toads, or both?) As we meandered our way back from the Osprey Trail, we spotted one of the large raptors guarding her nest. Our return to the parking lot, via the Cape Henry Trail completed the newly measured 6.5 mile loop.

It was a fantastic hike, on a glorious day, with very good company. I want to thank everyone for allowing me to see my favorite local trail through their eyes. While I haven’t a clue where the nearest ice cream shop is, perhaps one of the old pros can suggest something next time!

Juliet

Susan has sent us some great pictures: https://picasaweb.google.com/m.malabad/3612?authkey=Gv1sRgCP3F7dmQysOxPA