What an awesome and exciting walk around Kincaid Lake! Our small crew had perfect weather with minimal sun, and a moderately paced walk that was both energizing and stimulating.
Starting off along the trail we saw some wild Muscadine growing along the bridge as well as the green pine cones the squirrels had ravaged for food during these last days of summer and then haphazardly discarded the remains. Along the comfortably shaded trail we witnessed many interesting plants and animals that included French Mulberry, Giant Mushrooms, Muscadine Grapes, deer, frogs and toads, turtles, various nuts and grasses, Egrets and a lone Blue Heron.
As we took breaks along the lake shore before lunch, we had a few minutes to allow our gazes to wander out across the water and the boat dock, watching churn in the water as larger fish, caught smaller ones, and turtles sunned themselves on logs. During an eloquent silence created by nature just for us, one persistent Egret, missing its first run at a fish –waited in a hopeful state tempered with patience for the fish to show itself again.
After walking for a couple hours lunch became a welcome respite, and finding a suitable picnic area we took our time enjoying a delicious repast prepared for us by the Hub City diner, the highlight of which was the Macadamia and White Chocolate Chip cookies served for desert.
After lunch, we packed up and stretching our tired muscles, continued on to the beach – where a cool breeze from the lake revitalized us and pushed us forward along the shaded and fern covered trail. Continuing on we saw two small deer, who providence had camouflaged with natural coloring and who had concealed themselves with silence –saw us and bolted for suitable cover.
Just as rays of liquid sun began to heat the forest floor, and we could see the scintillation on the lake our walk began to come to a close saving us from any oppressive humidity.
A big THANK YOU to everyone who attended, it was a fun time – and I look forward to seeing you all again!!
-Jon Perkins, Trip Leader
