Trail Towns: Burgaw, Hampstead, Topsail Island
Located in the heart of Pender County, Burgaw is a trail town where Southern charm meets outdoor adventure. It’s known for its historic downtown, vibrant community events and recognizable landscapes from a wide variety of films and television shows. Pender County, with its barrier islands, marshes, riverine wetlands, and longleaf pine savannas, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy a wide array of activities such as strolling along sandy beaches, paddling down scenic rivers and hiking through historic areas. The Mountains-to-Sea Trail provides a route through Pender County, allowing you to explore one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the US, providing a habitat for rare plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. The Holly Shelter Game Land offers ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. The Black River, known for its ancient cypress trees, is perfect for kayaking and canoeing.
in the Burgaw Area
Our outdoors offer a mix of trails, waterways and diverse ecosystems. Whether you’re hiking through ancient forests, paddling along pristine rivers or simply enjoying the small-town charm, you’ll find that your adventure is just steps away in Burgaw and Pender County. We are committed to ensuring that everyone can experience the beauty and serenity of their natural landscapes. With a range of accessible trails, the area provides opportunities for people of all abilities to enjoy outdoor activities and connect with nature.
Hiking
Mountain Biking
Road Cycling
Paved Greenway
Paddling
Horseback Riding
Snorkeling
Fishing
Driving Tour
Cultural Or Walking Tours
Waterfall
Winter Activities
Important note: Accessible trails are highlighted in blue!
Trail name
Trail town
Activities
Osgood Canal Greenway & Urban Trail
Burgaw
Mountains To Sea Trail (Segment 14)
Atkinson, Currie
Pender County Blueberry Trail
Burgaw
Moores Creek National Battlefield
Burgaw, Atkinson, Currie
Abbey Nature Preserve
Hampstead, Scotts Hill
African American Heritage Trail
Burgaw, Currie, Hampstead, Surf City
Soundside Park & Trail
Surf City
At Outdoor NC, we are dedicated to promoting accessibility for all visitors, regardless of their abilities. We strive to improve the accessibility of our offerings and share this information through our various platforms, including our Trail Town Guide. We collaborate with state, regional, local and private-sector partners to make North Carolina’s destinations and outdoor spaces easier to access.
In this guide "Accessible" means
- This guide includes accessible, easy, moderate and difficult trails which may be suitable for, or exceed, anyone’s ability. Plan Ahead and Be Prepared.
- For this guide, trails which are marked as “accessible” are ADA compliant (firm, stable surface that is at least 36 inches wide). This includes paved greenways, hard pack pathways and boardwalks. It does not mean that these trails are without obstacles.
- Beyond ADA compliant trails, this guide lists many opportunities that are suitable for visitors of all abilities which include walking tours and driving trails. Additionally, check with local land managers for information on adaptive mountain bike access for mountain biking and road cycling trails.
- We encourage all visitors to utilize the provided trail websites and other local resources to become familiar with trail descriptions, site facilities and potential obstacles, so you know what to expect and can make the best determination for your skill and abilities.
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