HIKING

It takes dedication, an adventurous spirit, and one heck of a vacation to thru-hike North Carolina's Mountains-to-Sea Trail. The route, first begun in 1973, encompasses some 1,000 miles of hiking and biking trails and runs through two national parks, three national forests, one national seashore, seven state parks, two wilderness areas, and two wildlife refuges. The diversity of North Carolina has never been so easily accessible.

Take a walk at the Nags Head Woods Preserve, a maritime forest located on the western end of Nags Head in the Outer Banks. Managed by the Nature Conservancy, this 1,100-acre forest offers walking trails and a visitor center.

Step back in time on Roanoke Island. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site offers you the chance to see the island much as the British did upon their arrival some 400 years ago. The island is located between Nags Head and Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge.

Hike the Neusiok Trail in Croatan National Forest. Sandy beaches, expansive swampland, and long-leafed pine savannah each make an appearance as you traipse along this 20-mile footpath.

Walk slowly and bring a coastal flora guidebook in Carolina Beach State Park. Keep a vigilant eye out for the Venus flytrap. This famous carnivorous plant is quite comfortable making its home here.

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Take off today and explore the U.S. Top Trips of the Southeast — Hiking and biking with a touch of Southern charm. North Carolina Rambles — Wander the state, from mountains to ocean.

RELATED GORP LINKS
Raleigh-Durham City Weekender
GORP North Carolina
GORP Parks and Preserves