The best walks and hikes in Onslow County
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Hiking trails in Onslow County offer diverse landscapes, from coastal environments to maritime forests and longleaf pine savannas. The region is characterized by its position in the Coastal Plain, featuring over 30 miles of coastline, barrier islands, and extensive wetlands. Rivers like the New River and various creeks also contribute to the varied terrain, providing opportunities for exploration through different ecosystems.
Best hiking trails in Onslow County
- The most popular hiking route is Weetock Trail, a 7.1 miles (11.5…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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2.30km
00:35
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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…
9
hikers
4.63km
01:10
10m
10m
Hike the easy Jacksonville Commons Loop, a 2.9-mile trail through lush greenery and past historical landmarks in Jacksonville, NC.
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3
hikers
7.33km
01:51
20m
10m
Hike the easy 4.6-mile Wallace Creek Greenway, featuring a scenic View of Wallace Creek and minimal elevation gain.
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hikers
11.6km
02:55
10m
10m
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…
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1.78km
00:27
0m
10m
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…
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hikers
3.11km
00:47
10m
10m
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.
3.48km
00:53
10m
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Hike the easy 2.2-mile Lejeune Boulevard Greenway, exploring military memorials and enjoying scenic views of the New River.
1.31km
00:20
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Enjoy an easy 0.8-mile boardwalk loop through Soundside Park, offering scenic views and family-friendly amenities.
1.08km
00:17
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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…
12
hikers
4.71km
01:11
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Onslow County
Tips from the Community
Great boardwalk through the salt marshes and great for spotting wildlife - especially several Osprey nests.
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Visitor Center with some facilities, a few wooded walking trails (nothing too special but good for getting in some steps in the shade - but expect some Mosquitoes during the warm season) and a ferry to Bear Island.
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The Surf City Bridge carries NC Highway 210 over the Intracoastal Waterway, connecting the mainland to Topsail Island with a high-rise span that replaced the old swing bridge in 2018. It offers fantastic sweeping views of the waterway, marshes, and barrier island, and is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset. There is a dedicated pedestrian and bike path, making it a scenic and practical crossing for trail users heading toward the coast.
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Lejeune Memorial Gardens is a military park constructed to honor the men and women who served in the US military. The park is home to the Beirut Memorial, the Onslow Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Montford Point Marine Memorial, and the 9/11 Memorial Beam from the World Trade Center.
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Hammocks Beach State Park is over 1,500 acres and includes three smaller islands -- Dudley, Huggins, and Jones. There is a visitor center, picnic area and many beaches to choose from.
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Lejeune Memorial Gardens is a military park constructed to honor the men and women who served in the US military. The park is home to the Beirut Memorial, the Onslow Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Montford Point Marine Memorial, and the 9/11 Memorial Beam from the World Trade Center. The Rails to Trail Greenway runs through the park.
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Great view of Wallace creek from the peer off of Julian C. Smith. There is no traffic allowed on the pier, so you can take a break and enjoy the view.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Onslow County?
Komoot offers over a dozen hiking routes in Onslow County, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. You'll find a variety of landscapes, from coastal paths to forested greenways.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Onslow County?
Yes, Onslow County has many accessible trails perfect for beginners and families. For a pleasant, short walk, consider the Tidelands Trail, which offers a gentle 2.3 km path. Another great option is the Soundside Park Boardwalk Loop, a short and scenic boardwalk experience.
What are some longer hiking options in Onslow County?
If you're looking for a longer outing, the Weetock Trail is a moderate 11.5 km route that takes you through diverse natural settings. For a substantial easy walk, the Wallace Creek Greenway offers over 7 km of accessible path.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Onslow County?
Onslow County boasts a diverse range of natural beauty. You can explore maritime forests with live oaks, longleaf pine savannas, coastal environments, and wetlands. Hammocks Beach State Park, for instance, offers trails through wooded areas leading to pristine beaches, while areas like Stones Creek Game Land feature longleaf pine savannas and lakes.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Onslow County?
Yes, several routes offer a circular experience. The Jacksonville Commons Loop is a popular 4.6 km circular path. Another option is the Dry Lake Loop via Deer Lane, which provides a 3.1 km loop through natural surroundings.
What are some scenic trails or places to explore in Onslow County?
For scenic views, consider trails that offer glimpses of the coastline or maritime forests. Hammocks Beach State Park provides beautiful walks through woods to the shoreline of Bear Island. The Emerald Isle Woods Trail also offers a pleasant experience through coastal woodlands.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Onslow County?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in Onslow County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the diverse natural settings, and the opportunity to connect with nature in a peaceful environment.
Are there any specific parks or areas known for hiking in Onslow County?
Absolutely. Hammocks Beach State Park is a major highlight, offering trails through maritime forests and access to Bear Island. The Jacksonville Greenway Trail System, including the Lejeune Boulevard Greenway, provides paved paths and boardwalks. Oakhurst Nature Park also features forested walking trails and wilderness to explore.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Onslow County?
Onslow County offers pleasant hiking conditions for much of the year. While summer can be warm and humid, the mild weather often extends through the cooler months, making spring, fall, and even winter excellent times for comfortable walks, especially along the coast.
Are there any trails that offer a unique coastal experience?
Yes, Onslow County's extensive coastline provides unique opportunities. The Live Oak, Coastal Fringe, and Hickory Bluff Trail offers a glimpse into coastal ecosystems. Additionally, walks along North Topsail Beach or the undeveloped Bear Island at Hammocks Beach State Park provide true immersion in the coastal environment.
Where can I find more information about Oakhurst Nature Park?
Oakhurst Nature Park features two forested walking trails and 253 acres of wilderness. For more details about the park and its amenities, you can visit the official Onslow County website: Oakhurst Nature Park.
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