The best walks and hikes in Onslow County

The Tidelands Trail offers a delightful immersion into a unique coastal environment, guiding you through salt marsh and coastal forest on a mix of boardwalks and smooth gravel paths. You'll find yourself overlooking the White Oak River, with plenty of chances to observe local wildlife like fiddler crabs, egrets, and kingfishers. This easy 1.4-mile (2.3 km) hiking route, with only 15 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect family-friendly outing that takes about 34 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, you'll appreciate the convenience of restroom facilities and picnic tables right at the trailhead. Dogs are welcome to join you on a leash, but remember to bring insect repellent, especially during warmer months, as chiggers, ticks, and mosquitoes can be active. It's a great option for a quick nature escape without needing extensive preparation.

This National Recreation Trail is particularly notable for its rich ecosystem, featuring interpretive signs that explain the constant changes in the local environment. It's an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, from shorebirds to deer, and offers a glimpse of unusual coastal plants like sea beans. The trail's accessibility and educational aspects make it a standout choice for those seeking a gentle yet engaging outdoor experience.

Hike the easy Jacksonville Commons Loop, a 2.9-mile trail through lush greenery and past historical landmarks in Jacksonville, NC.

Hike the easy 4.6-mile Wallace Creek Greenway, featuring a scenic View of Wallace Creek and minimal elevation gain.

The Weetock Trail offers a fascinating journey through North Carolina's coastal wilderness, winding through a tapestry of hardwood ridges, pine flatwoods, and ancient cypress swamps. You'll find yourself walking alongside Hunter's Creek, the White Oak River, and Holston Creek, with opportunities to see diverse wildlife and vibrant wildflowers depending on the season. This moderate 7.2-mile (11.6 km) hiking route, with its minimal 47 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, provides a unique immersion into a rich ecosystem.

Completing the trail takes approximately 2 hours and 54 minutes, making it a manageable day hike. It's best to plan your trip during cooler months, as the area can be very humid with many insects and reptiles during summer. While the initial sections are well-marked, some parts of the trail can be less clear, so bring a map and GPS, especially if you plan to explore beyond the more maintained segments from the Highway 58 trailhead.

What makes the Weetock Trail truly stand out is its incredible biodiversity, offering a chance to spot black bears, wild turkeys, and even alligators in swampy areas. The trail's name, "Weetock," reflects the historical significance of the White Oak River to indigenous peoples. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure and a navigation challenge in a less-groomed setting, this trail provides a rewarding experience.

Step into the tranquil maritime forest of Emerald Isle Woods Trail, where soft pine needles cushion your steps beneath a canopy of tall trees. This easy 1.1-mile (1.8 km) hike offers a delightful journey to the serene Bogue Sound, where boardwalks lead to a floating dock perfect for enjoying the water views and spotting local wildlife. It's a gentle, immersive experience into the natural coastal environment, ideal for a relaxing outing.

Accessing the trail is simple, with parking available directly at Emerald Isle Woods Park. The park provides useful amenities like restrooms and a picnic pavilion, making it convenient for a family visit. With an estimated duration of just 27 minutes and minimal elevation gain of 13 feet (4 metres), it's a great choice for a quick nature break at any time of day.

Beyond its scenic beauty, the Emerald Isle Woods Trail is a haven for birdwatchers, being part of the North Carolina Birding Trail, where you might spot osprey, egrets, and woodpeckers. The park also features a 9-hole disc golf course winding through the forest, adding another recreational option to your visit. It's a fantastic spot to experience the undeveloped, natural side of Emerald Isle.

Hike the easy 1.9-mile Dry Lake Loop via Deer Lane in Stones Creek Game Land, gaining 23 feet of elevation in about 47 minutes.

Hike the easy 2.2-mile Lejeune Boulevard Greenway, exploring military memorials and enjoying scenic views of the New River.

Enjoy an easy 0.8-mile boardwalk loop through Soundside Park, offering scenic views and family-friendly amenities.

The Live Oak, Coastal Fringe, and Hickory Bluff Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll through the distinctive maritime forests and coastal environments of North Carolina. You'll wander beneath the sprawling canopies of ancient live oak trees and discover unique bluffs, experiencing a journey where the scenery subtly shifts from dense woodland to more open, fringed coastal areas. This short route provides a peaceful and accessible way to immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is situated within Hammocks Beach State Park, where parking is readily available. This 0.7-mile (1.1 km) hike, with only 13 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 16 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick outing. Dogs are permitted on the Live Oak Trail, provided they are leashed, so feel free to bring your furry friend along for this easy adventure.

Beyond its immediate charm, this trail is notable for its location within the beautiful Hammocks Beach State Park and its connection to the larger City-to-the-Sea trail network. It offers a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of Onslow County, showcasing characteristic coastal terrain. The easy difficulty rating ensures that hikers of all ages and abilities can enjoy the unique blend of live oaks, coastal fringes, and bluffs.