Trails on the Outer Banks

Trails don't have to exclusively pertain to hiking or walking, discover below which OBX "path" suits you. History and cultural buffs can find our Civil War Trail or African American Experience of Northeast North Carolina. Foodies can follow fresh oysters from restaurants to farms down the coast or take a sip along the Outer Banks Beer, Wine, & Spirits Trail. Fashion or art lovers...we've got you covered.

Take the avenue less traveled and explore beaches and maritime forests on foot. The OBX is known for its beaches, but did you know we also have three Coastal Maritime forests in Kitty Hawk, Nags Head and Buxton? Put on some hiking shoes and check them out! Dive into hidden places like Buxton Woods Coastal Reserve or Nags Head Woods Preserve and take your bike for a spin along our many multi-use sidewalks. If you are looking to help take care of our trails or understand how you can take care of this place you love, visit our Responsible Travel page.

Be sure to also check out the Official North Carolina Trail Town Guide, as several Outer Banks trails — including the Freedom Trail at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Mountains-to-Sea Trail (Segment 18) and Town of Duck Boardwalk — are spotlighted along with others from across the state. The guide, created by our partners at Outdoor NC, celebrates towns that are dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of their destination while fostering a strong sense of place. The destinations featured in this guide are championing destination stewardship, accessible outdoors and responsible recreation to sustain our towns and trails for future generations.