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Best Hiking In The Albemarle & Pamlico Sounds Area
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The Doirons
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Welcome to our guide to the most exhilarating hiking experiences in the Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds Area, where the coastal charm harmonizes with Southern hospitality amid the stunning landscapes of North Carolina’s coastline.
Embark on a journey through various trails and terrains as we reveal the top destinations for unforgettable hiking adventures.
From scenic coastal paths to lush forested trails, the Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds Area offers a diverse range of options for hikers of all levels and interests.
Whether you’re drawn to historic landmarks or seek the serenity of nature’s embrace, get ready to lace up your boots and immerse yourself in an unforgettable hiking escapade in this enchanting locale.
RankNC's Top Picks
The Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds region offers diverse landscapes ideal for hiking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best places to go hiking in the area.
1. Merchant’s Millpond State Park
Near Gatesville (close to Ahoskie)
Offering a unique blend of history and nature, Merchant’s Millpond State Park features enchanting trails through cypress swamps and millpond areas, perfect for exploring the area’s natural beauty.

2. Goose Creek State Park
Near Washington
Goose Creek State Park provides a variety of trails through coastal marshes and pine forests, with scenic views of the Pamlico River, making it an excellent spot for nature walks and wildlife observation.
3. Pettigrew State Park
Near Creswell (close to Plymouth)
Adjacent to Lake Phelps and Somerset Place, Pettigrew State Park offers trails through wetlands and forests, showcasing the region’s ecological diversity and historical significance.
4. New Bern’s Historical Walk
New Bern
While more of an urban hike, New Bern’s historical walk offers a chance to explore the city’s rich history and beautiful historic districts on foot, featuring well-preserved buildings and charming streets.
5. Palmetto Boardwalk Trail
Washington
Part of the Washington waterfront, the Palmetto Boardwalk Trail provides a peaceful hike along the Pamlico River, ideal for a leisurely walk with scenic water views.
6. Dismal Swamp State Park
Near South Mills (close to Elizabeth City)
Although a bit of a drive from Elizabeth City, Dismal Swamp State Park offers an array of trails in one of the most extensive remaining swamps in the Southeast, perfect for hikers exploring unique landscapes.
7. Cliffs of the Neuse State Park
Near Goldsboro (close to New Bern)
While slightly farther away, Cliffs of the Neuse State Park features striking geological formations and several hiking trails that provide picturesque views of the Neuse River and surrounding areas.
8. Historic Edenton Walking Tour
Edenton
The historic walking tour in Edenton combines light hiking with cultural exploration. During the tour, you can enjoy the town’s colonial architecture, historic sites, and waterfront parks.
9. Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
Near Plymouth
This refuge offers trails and boardwalks through diverse habitats, ideal for bird watching and encountering the region’s wildlife in a natural setting.
10. Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park
Near New Bern
Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park in New Bern provides an accessible trail through forested areas and along the water, offering a peaceful environment for hiking and nature observation.
Conclusion
These hiking locations in the Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds Area provide a range of outdoor experiences, from serene waterfront walks and swampy explorations to historical tours and nature trails catering to hikers of all interests and abilities.
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- By The Doirons
The Doirons
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