Best Hiking Trails Near Wilmington, NC

Wilmington, North Carolina, offers visitors and residents a surprising variety of outdoor adventures, especially for those keen to explore the beauty of its landscapes on foot. While Wilmington is primarily known for its charming beaches and vibrant riverfront, the area around this coastal city is also rich with scenic trails offering memorable hiking experiences. From walks through maritime forests to strolls along pristine beaches, these trails promise to enthrall hikers of all levels. Here’s a guide to some of the best hiking trails you’ll find near Wilmington, NC.

Carolina Beach State Park

Trail Highlight: Sugarloaf Trail
Distance from Wilmington: Approximately 17 miles
Trail Length: 3 miles

This trail is perfect for those looking to combine coastal beauty with a bit of history. The Sugarloaf Dune, a significant landmark during the Civil War, offers not just an intriguing history lesson but also spectacular views of the Cape Fear River. Beyond the dune, the trail meanders through a variety of ecosystems, including marshes and pine forests, making it a nature lover’s delight.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

Trail Highlight: Basin Trail
Distance from Wilmington: Approximately 20 miles
Trail Length: 1.1 miles (one way)

Ideal for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts, the Basin Trail at Fort Fisher leads you through a salt marsh to a lovely stretch of beach near the historic site of a Civil War fort. The trail ends at an observation deck with stunning views of the Atlantic, making it a peaceful escape for those looking for solitude and natural beauty.

Airlie Gardens

Trail Highlight: Nature Trails
Distance from Wilmington: 10 miles
Trail Length: Varies

Though not a hiking trail in the traditional sense, Airlie Gardens’ winding paths offer an enchanting walk through one of the most beautiful landscaped gardens in North Carolina. Explore a variety of themed gardens, marvel at the ancient live oaks, and enjoy the serene views of Bradley Creek.

Holly Shelter Game Land

Trail Highlight: Flatwoods Trail
Distance from Wilmington: 30 miles
Trail Length: Up to 10 miles

For those willing to venture a bit further, the Holly Shelter Game Land offers an extensive network of trails through a diverse landscape. The Flatwoods Trail, in particular, is noted for its pine savannas and pocosin bogs, home to rare carnivorous plants like Venus flytraps. This area is also a haven for wildlife, offering chances to spot everything from deer to wild turkey.

Ev-Henwood Nature Preserve

Trail Highlight: Abbey Nature Preserve Trail
Distance from Wilmington: Approximately 20 miles
Trail Length: 2 miles

Managed by the University of North Carolina Wilmington, this less-known preserve features a stunning landscape of forested areas peppered with streams and diverse plant life. The highlight of the preserve is a beautiful small waterfall, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat into nature.

Tips for Hikers

• Seasonality: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for hiking, with lower humidity and pleasant temperatures.
• Wildlife: Be prepared to encounter wildlife, including snakes and insects. Staying on marked trails and wearing protective clothing can help minimize risks.
• Conservation: Practice “Leave No Trace” principles to help preserve the beauty and ecological integrity of these trails for future hikers.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a challenging trail or someone simply wishing to enjoy a leisurely walk amidst nature, the area around Wilmington, NC, has something special to offer. Each trail provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich history of the region. Pack your hiking boots, a good map, and plenty of water, and get ready to discover the incredible scenery that lies just a short drive from Wilmington’s bustling riverfront.