OBX Hiking Trails

Jockey’s Ridge State Park

Located in Nags Head, Jockey’s Ridge State Park offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Albemarle Sound atop the tallest sand dune on the East Coast. Enjoy exploring over 400 acres of the state park, including various hiking trails that wind through the maritime forest and end at the Albemarle Sound. Jockey’s Ridge State Park is the official endpoint of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, which winds throughout the state of North Carolina. The park also serves as the beginning point of the 50-mile Jockey’s Trail, which winds northward through the Outer Banks, ending in Carova Beach just south of the NC/VA state line.

Hours: Open at 8:00am year-round, closes at 9:00pm from May to September, 7:00 pm in October, 6:00 pm from November to February, and 8:00 pm in March and April.

Scenic Bike Route: From Ocean to Sound

Park at the public parking lot at Dowdy Park in Nags Head to begin this bike route. Follow the bike path south alongside NC-12 until you pass Jockey’s Ridge. Turn right and bike along W. Soundside Road. Enjoy views of Jockey’s Ridge, traditional style Outer Banks beach cottages, and the Albemarle Sound. Tip: Get off your bike once you’ve reached the Albemarle Sound; there’s a public walkway that gives you access to the soundside beach. Great spot to take a pitstop and enjoy nature!

Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve

Just a few miles north of Jockey’s Ridge State Park, you will find Nags Head Ecological Preserve. Hike through one of the largest maritime forests on the East Coast; there are many miles of trails with all levels of intensity. The park service has installed many informational signs throughout the preserve about the history, vegetation, and wildlife. Don’t forget to pack some bug spray, just in case!

Hours: Dawn until Dusk

Wright Brothers National Memorial

Located in Kill Devil Hills, this is a must-see while you’re on vacation. The Wright Brothers National Memorial sits atop a large hill. Climb to the top and enjoy unbelievable panoramic views of the Outer Banks. Learn more about the history of flight and the museum here.

Hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm

Kitty Hawk Woods

Kitty Hawk Woods offers many different hiking trails that wind through over 400 acres of maritime deciduous forest, maritime swamp forest, and interdune ponds. Great for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquility of nature. Another way to explore Kitty Hawk Woods is to rent a kayak from Ocean Atlantic Rentals and explore by water.

Hours: Dawn to Dusk

Sandy Run Park

Located in Kitty Hawk Woods, Sandy Run Park provides a scenic hike for all ages – most of the 1/2 mile loop around the lake consists of raised walkways with little incline. Many covered areas with picnic tables and benches are scattered throughout the trail. The little ones in your group will love seeing all the turtles in the lake. Bring your fishing pole or kayak and have some fun!

Hours: Dawn to Dusk

Scenic Bike Route: Soundside Cruise

Park at the public parking lot at Sandy Run Park to begin this bike route. Enjoy riding down Kitty Hawk Road and seeing a different side of the Outer Banks. Eventually, the road opens to the water, and you’ll get incredible views of Kitty Hawk Bay. Follow the bike path along Bay Drive until you reach the boat ramp at Dock Street. We suggest taking this route in the late afternoon to catch a stunning sunset on the sound.

Town of Duck Boardwalk

Spanning one mile along the Currituck Sound, the Duck Boardwalk gives you the opportunity to enjoy nature without getting too far off the beaten path. There are plenty of shops and restaurants that line portions of the boardwalk. Grab some dinner at NC Coast Grill & Bar and then go for a sunset stroll.

Hours: Dawn to 1:00am

Currituck Banks Coastal Estuarine Reserve

At the very north end of Corolla, right before the 4×4 beaches, you will find the public parking lot for the Currituck Banks Coastal Estuarine Reserve. Explore the 1.5-mile trail through the maritime forest and look for many different types of wildlife, including migrating birds and, on occasion, the Corolla Wild Horses. Don’t forget your bug spray and sunscreen.

Hours: Dawn to Dusk

And last but not least…the beach!

A hike along the beach is always a good idea. Listen to the sound of the waves lapping the shore as you stroll along and enjoy the salty ocean breeze. Be on the lookout for dolphins.