Nags Head Woods Preserve

Nags Head Woods Preserve

Nags Head Woods Preserve, located in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, offers a serene escape into a coastal forested oasis. Renowned for its diverse ecosystem, this area is important as a natural refuge amid the bustling Outer Banks. It's a destination for nature lovers seeking tranquility and beauty.

Visitors are greeted by windswept trees and a variety of habitats, from wetlands and marshes to sand dunes. The preserve is home to unique flora and fauna, such as the endangered Loggerhead Shrike and the American beech. Established to protect this fragile environment, it plays a critical role in local conservation efforts.

Discover Nags Head Woods Preserve and immerse yourself in its natural wonders!

Adventure Guide to Nags Head Woods Preserve

1. Roanoke Trail

• What Makes it Special: This trail offers scenic views and a first-hand experience of the diverse habitats in the preserve.
• Key Features: Rich in birdlife and lined with native plants, it's ideal for an immersive nature walk.
• Local Insights: Named after the nearby Roanoke Sound, the trail offers glimpses of the coast's ecological richness.
• Visitor Tips:
  • Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for optimal wildlife sightings.
  • What to Bring: Binoculars for birdwatching, comfortable footwear.
  • Driving Directions: Approximately 1.5 hours from Norfolk, VA. Take US-158 S and NC-12 S to Kill Devil Hills.

2. Salt Flats Eco Walk

• What Makes it Special: Explore the unique salt marsh ecosystem.
• Key Features: Features boardwalks over marshes.
• Local Insights: Learn about the area's role in coastal protection and its biodiversity.
• Visitor Tips:
  • Best Times to Visit: Spring and fall for comfortable weather.
  • What to Bring: Sunscreen, a camera.
  • Driving Directions: From Raleigh, NC, take US-64 E to reach the preserve in about 3.5 hours.

3. Berry Island Overlook

• What Makes it Special: Offers panoramic views of the landscape.
• Key Features: A short walk leads to a stunning vista perfect for photography.
• Local Insights: Named for the wild berries that grow in the area.
• Visitor Tips:
  • Best Times to Visit: Late afternoon for magical sunset views.
  • What to Bring: Water, a picnic.
  • Driving Directions: Situated within Nags Head, easily accessible by local roads.