We’ve had some hard rain on the Outer Banks in the evening the past few days. The weather gods seem to have cooperated though, and let the sun come out in the daytime—or at least, held the rain off until evening.
That’s great—the rain that is…we really needed it. It’s been very dry.
But with all that sunlight, we’ve been able to do some exploring of some of the local trails. The Outer Banks is rightfully known for its beaches, but the western side of this chain of barrier islands is often a densely wooded maritime forest that calls out to be explored.
We had a chance to take a walk along one of the easiest trails there is recently.
The Pine Island trail begins behind the Pine Island Racquet Club in Corolla. The trail is a wide packed earth track that was at one time the road to Corolla—but that’s a whole other story for another time.
The trail, which over time is becoming increasingly forested, runs parallel to Currituck Sound and never moves to far away from it. In the trees, songbirds keep a constant chatter going. An occasional squirrel moves through the branches. Butterflies flit quickly across the trail, giving a brief glimpse of their beautiful colors.
There are two observation platforms overlooking the sound. Depending on time of day, the season, and luck to a certain extent, there can be a lot to see.
Great egrets best here as well as great blue heron and and quite a number of other herons. An occasional beaver will make an appearance. Osprey are common. It is a fascinating place.
All in all, a great way to introduce kids to nature of for anyone to learn a bit more about the Outer Banks.
The trail is a 2.5 mile trek that ends at the Sanderling Resort in Duck. It is not a loop trail, so it’s a five mile out and back walk if the entire trail is done.
The trail is suitable for fat tire bikes, beach cruisers will probably really struggle on it.
If going between May and September, insect repellant is a necessity.
So much to explore and never enough time. Spend a little extra time with us at Brindley Beach Vacations to explore the wonders of the Outer Banks.