When it comes to favorite places, even the most well-traveled outdoorsman can’t help but sing the praises of North Carolina in November — a season rich in fish, fowl, and friends.
ramblin’ man
In Search of Pocket Waterfalls
Although dwarfed by their thundering cousins, small-scale falls hold their own special magic. It might take some extra legwork to find one, tucked among the rugged peaks of the High Country, but stumbling upon an elfin cascade is an enchanting reward.
Red, Right, Returning
For the uninitiated, channel markers are like a secret language, mysterious and difficult to decode. For those who work and play on the water, they provide essential guidance in navigating the North Carolina coast.
A Toast to Summer Camp
For two parents of former campers, re-creating a pickup weekend involves a trip to Surry County, a visit to Shelton Vineyards, and fond recollections of past reunions. But no kids.
Home Sweet Rock Pile
One of our state’s most common fishes has a rare talent. In the fresh, clear waterways of the mountains and Piedmont, bluehead chubs build nests for their young, stone by tiny stone.
Talking Trash
An eagle-eyed explorer becomes an amateur archaeologist when the winter-bare woods across North Carolina reveal piles of cast-off tools, kitchenware, and other glimpses into long-gone homesteads.
Away in a Menagerie
The gift of a friendly beast, whether hamster, gecko, or goldfish, can inspire holiday joy and wonder — so long as the critter doesn’t attempt a Christmas Eve escape.
Most Improved Sports Fan
Sometimes, when his house full of Tar Heel fanatics huddles up around the TV, the Ramblin’ Man gets to feeling a little sidelined. Hard as he tries, “tackle” and “net” conjure visions of mountain streams, even during football and basketball seasons.
’Tis the Season
The Ramblin’ Man heads into Labor Day weekend with a twinkle in his eye and a song on his lips: For many North Carolinians, dove hunting season kicks off the most wonderful time of the year.
