Nags Head Woods Preserve
Discover one of the largest remaining maritime forests on the East Coast, offering shaded trails and diverse wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer bugs
Nags Head Woods Preserve
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer bugs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover one of the largest remaining maritime forests on the East Coast, offering shaded trails and diverse wildlife.
"An awesome place for hiking with beautiful scenery and well-marked trails."
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Mosquitoes and biting insects are common, especially near marshy areas. Pack strong bug spray!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Some trails can be sandy or marshy. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Maritime Forest Trails
Various trails throughout the preserve
Explore one of the largest remaining maritime forests on the East Coast, a unique and rare habitat.
ADA Accessible Trail
ADA Trail
A paved path winds through diverse ecosystems, perfect for all visitors to spot wildlife.
Sweetgum Swamp to Blueberry Ridge
Sweetgum Swamp Trail, Blueberry Ridge Trail
A popular 3.5-mile loop offering shaded paths, potential wildlife sightings, and historical elements.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Shade: Beat the Heat and Bugs
Trail Variety and Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Mosquitoes and biting insects are common, especially near marshy areas. Pack strong bug spray!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Some trails can be sandy or marshy. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Even in shaded areas, hiking can be strenuous. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🗺️ Follow Trail Markers
Trails are generally well-marked, but it's easy to get turned around. Pay attention to signs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Mosquitoes and biting insects are common, especially near marshy areas. Pack strong bug spray!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Some trails can be sandy or marshy. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Even in shaded areas, hiking can be strenuous. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🗺️ Follow Trail Markers
Trails are generally well-marked, but it's easy to get turned around. Pay attention to signs.
📸 Capture the Serenity
Escape the ocean winds and enjoy the quiet beauty of the maritime forest.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Nags Head Woods Preserve for its beautiful scenery, well-marked trails, and the unique experience of hiking through a maritime forest. It's a peaceful escape from the beach crowds, offering a chance to connect with nature. However, some find certain sandy trails challenging, and the presence of bugs, particularly mosquitoes, requires preparation.
"What an awesome place for hiking. Beautiful scenery, well marked trails. Highly recommend this place if you enjoy nature. The only issue is that the trail becomes a sand trap, very hard to walk through and the trail circled back to the sand and we had to go through it twice. Parking is also limited."
Barbara Thompson
"Well maintained trails and great for taking our dog on a little hike with us. We took trail 5 out to a little beach area. The paths were marked well and easy to follow. Only downside is that because it’s marshy, there are definitely bugs, so plan ahead and maybe try to go during cooler weather to avoid the buggies."
Jessica Fox
"Hiking Trail Review
Sweetgum Swamp to Blueberry Ridge Trail - 3.5 miles
Trailhead was very easy to find with a large and extensive parking area. Parking was free. Little information area at the start of the trail. The trail itself was easy and shaded. Lots of mosquitoes and several snakes on the trail. Take it slow or you might step on one like I almost did. Great experience and very pretty views."
David Leonard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nags Head Woods Preserve is located in Nags Head, North Carolina, on the Outer Banks. Access is typically via NC-12. The preserve has a parking area, which is generally free.
Public transportation options directly to the preserve are limited. Most visitors arrive by car. Consider ride-sharing services if available in the area.
From US-158 Bypass, take the US-158 East exit towards Nags Head. Turn right onto NC-12 South (South Croatan Highway). The entrance to Nags Head Woods Preserve will be on your left, marked by signage.
Yes, there is a parking area at the trailhead. It's described as large and extensive, but can be limited during peak times.
While biking is a great way to explore the Outer Banks, direct bike paths to the preserve entrance might not be readily available. Check local cycling maps for the best routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Nags Head Woods Preserve is free. There are no admission fees required to access the trails and enjoy the natural beauty.
The preserve is generally open during daylight hours. Specific opening and closing times can vary, so it's advisable to check with The Nature Conservancy or local tourism sites for the most current information.
There is no entrance fee for Nags Head Woods Preserve. It is a public access area managed by The Nature Conservancy.
While not always advertised, occasional guided tours or nature walks may be offered. It's best to check the official Nags Head Woods Preserve or The Nature Conservancy website for any scheduled events.
General access is permitted during daylight hours. Visitors are expected to stay on marked trails and respect the natural environment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Sweetgum Swamp to Blueberry Ridge Trail (3.5 miles), the ADA Trail for accessibility, and various loops connecting different sections of the maritime forest.
Absolutely! The preserve is a haven for over 150 species of birds, with at least 50 nesting there, making it a prime spot for birding.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trails at Nags Head Woods Preserve, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
You might spot various wildlife, including frogs, snakes, insects, and a diverse array of bird species. Keep an eye out near ponds and marshy areas.
The trails are generally well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a map or use a navigation app, especially if you plan to explore multiple trails.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene atmosphere. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting through the trees.
Nature photography, landscape shots of the maritime forest, and wildlife photography are excellent here. The diverse flora and fauna provide ample subjects. 
Look for areas near the ponds, along the ADA trail, and where sunlight filters through the dense canopy. The Roanoke Trail is also noted for its beauty.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the forest's expanse, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions. Don't forget bug spray to protect yourself while you shoot!
Drone usage is typically restricted in nature preserves to protect wildlife and maintain a peaceful environment. It's best to check with the preserve management for specific regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will be fascinated by the chance to spot frogs, snakes, and various insects in the ponds and marshy areas. For families who enjoy longer hikes, trails like the Sweetgum Swamp to Blueberry Ridge offer a more immersive experience. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and bug spray, as insects can be prevalent. Visiting during cooler parts of the day or in the spring/fall will make the outing more comfortable for everyone.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
+1 With eight miles of trails, including longer loops, you can spend hours discovering the diverse plant and animal life. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the over 150 species of birds, many of which nest within the preserve.
Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the serene beauty of the shaded trails, ponds, and unique flora. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring bug spray for a comfortable experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Ecosystem of Nags Head Woods
+1The preserve's importance is highlighted by its role in protecting this increasingly rare habitat. Human development has significantly impacted coastal environments, making areas like Nags Head Woods invaluable for biodiversity. The Nature Conservancy actively works to preserve this delicate balance, ensuring that this natural treasure can be enjoyed by future generations.
+1Visitors can experience this ecosystem firsthand through the preserve's eight miles of trails. These paths wind through different environments, including swamps and freshwater ponds, offering a chance to observe the varied flora and fauna. The ADA Trail provides an accessible way for everyone to immerse themselves in this natural wonder.
+1Hiking Trails and Visitor Experience
+1More adventurous hikers can explore longer loops like the Sweetgum Swamp to Blueberry Ridge Trail, a popular 3.5-mile route that combines shaded paths with potential wildlife sightings and even historical elements like the Tillett family homestead and burial ground.
While the trails are generally well-marked, visitors should be prepared for the natural conditions. Some sections can be sandy or marshy, and the presence of insects like mosquitoes is common, especially in warmer months. Bringing plenty of water and applying bug spray are highly recommended for a comfortable and enjoyable hike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit