Top Fall Trails to Explore in Western Carteret and Onslow County

Fall is here, and there’s no better time to enjoy the beauty of Eastern North Carolina! With cooler temperatures and vibrant colors, autumn is the perfect season to explore local trails. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature walk or an adventurous hike, Western Carteret and Onslow County have stunning trails for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a list of some must-visit trails this fall.

1. Cedar Point Tideland Trail

Location: Cedar Point Recreation Area, Croatan National Forest
Distance: 1.3-mile loop

The Tideland Trail is a scenic route that winds through maritime forests and salt marshes, offering beautiful views of Bogue Sound. This easy loop is ideal for families or those looking for a leisurely hike. In the fall, you’ll enjoy cooler air and stunning views of changing marsh grasses. Keep an eye out for coastal birds and crabs along the trail!
More info: Cedar Point Tideland Trail

2. Neusiok Trail

Location: Croatan National Forest
Distance: 21 miles (can be hiked in sections)

For those who want a more challenging experience, the Neusiok Trail offers a diverse mix of terrain, including swamps, pocosins, and hardwood forests. With trailheads at several points, you can choose a short section or tackle a longer hike. Fall is one of the best times to explore the Neusiok Trail, as the humidity drops and the vibrant autumn colors make the landscape pop.
More info: Neusiok Trail

3. Hammocks Beach State Park - Bear Island Trail

Location: Hammocks Beach State Park, Swansboro
Distance: 4 miles (round trip, with ferry access to Bear Island)

Hammocks Beach State Park is famous for its undeveloped barrier island, Bear Island. While it’s not a traditional trail, the island offers a beautiful hike through its pristine sands and dunes. In fall, you can take a peaceful ferry ride, and the beach becomes a quieter place for exploring coastal habitats and collecting seashells.
More info: Hammocks Beach State Park

4. Jacksonville Commons Nature Trail

Location: Jacksonville Commons Recreation Complex, Jacksonville
Distance: 1-mile loop

If you're looking for a quick walk close to town, the Jacksonville Commons Nature Trail is a family-friendly, easy loop with scenic views and interpretive signs along the path. It's a great spot for a casual stroll among fall foliage and an easy way to enjoy the changing seasons without venturing too far.
More info: Jacksonville Recreation

5. Newport Riverwalk Park

Location: Newport
Distance: Approximately 1 mile

A newer trail, the Newport Riverwalk Park offers a beautiful, leisurely path along the Newport River. Perfect for a fall afternoon, you can enjoy the peaceful water views and a variety of bird species. The trail is flat and accessible, making it great for all ages.
More info: Newport Riverwalk

6. White Oak River Trail

Location: Stella, near Swansboro
Distance: Approximately 2.5 miles (with plans to expand)

Winding along the White Oak River, this trail offers scenic views of the water and plenty of spots to rest and enjoy the fall scenery. It's especially beautiful at sunset when the colors reflect on the river. Plans for expansion mean this trail will only get better in years to come, so it's worth exploring now!
More info: Check local park websites or the town of Swansboro for updates.

Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Hit the Trails

Fall in Eastern North Carolina offers cooler, comfortable weather, fewer insects, and brilliant displays of autumn leaves. It’s also a quieter time to visit, with fewer crowds, making it ideal for a peaceful hike. From shorter family-friendly trails to more extensive routes, there’s a perfect fall trail for everyone in Western Carteret and Onslow County. So grab your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and enjoy the crisp, refreshing air and natural beauty of Eastern NC this season!

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