If you’re ready to stretch your legs beyond the shoreline, Ocracoke’s trails are the perfect escape. Winding through maritime forests, dunes, and sandy paths shaped by salt air and time, these routes reveal the island’s untamed beauty.

Along the way, you might glimpse the Ocracoke Banker Ponies in their pen, spot coastal birds overhead, and experience the rhythms of life on a barrier island.

Pack water and wear sturdy shoes—sand spurs and flip-flops don’t mix. The trails aren’t long, but the coastal sun is no joke.

Our hiking spots include Springer’s Point Nature Trail and Hammock Hills Nature Trail.

• Springer’s Point: About a mile there and back, this easy trail winds through maritime forest shaded by centuries-old live oaks and ends at a quiet beach overlooking Pamlico Sound. It’s a favorite for sunset views and is rich in pirate history—legend has it Blackbeard once anchored nearby.

• Hammock Hills: This ¾-mile loop is a bit more open, climbing gently over dunes with views of the salt marsh. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, especially during migration, and gives you a sense of the island’s shifting terrain.

Here, nature sets the pace. These paths lead you into a landscape that has endured for centuries, offering a glimpse of Ocracoke in its purest form. Step off the beach and discover what 16 miles of wild island truly feels like.