You Can Both Swim and Hike on This North Carolina Trail—It’s Summer Perfection

It doesn't get much better when your North Carolina hiking trail is a two-fer. Sure, while it's nice to get out on the trails and enjoy some exercise, nature, and fresh air, what would you say to rolling in a little swimming reward at the end? The Tracks in the Sand Trail in Jockey's Ridge State Park isn't your average hiking trail for a lot of reasons. First, some aspects of this trail will make you feel like you're trekking through the Sahara. And second, you can hike AND swim all in one shot. Let's talk about some highlights of this trail and what makes it such a unique gem.

The Tracks in the Sand Trail offers the kind of coastal escape that feels tailor-made for a summer getaway. With a name as poetic as the experience itself, this trail is part of Jockey's Ridge State Park near Nags Head. It blends some of the best of North Carolina’s natural beauty—towering dunes, sand-swept pathways, maritime forest, and easy access to refreshing Atlantic waters.

This 1.2-mile out-and-back trail offers an easy-to-moderate trek through one of the most unique natural environments on the East Coast. It typically takes about 25 minutes to complete, but the rich landscape and stunning views might just convince you to linger longer.

Jockey’s Ridge State Park is home to the tallest active sand dune system in the eastern United States and spans more than 425 acres. It's the most visited state park in North Carolina, and for good reason. The landscape is unlike any other, with sweeping dunes that can feel more like a desert than a beachside destination. In fact, during the summer months, temperatures on the sand can soar to 30 degrees higher than the air—easily hitting triple digits—so it’s smart to bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and avoid the heat of midday.

Starting at the park's main parking lot, the trail winds through several fascinating ecosystems, from high sandy dunes to still shores. Along the way, hikers will learn about the area’s fragile dune environment and the specialized plants and animals that manage to thrive in its dry, shifting terrain. While the trail is relatively flat, the sandy footing can make it more strenuous than it looks, so closed-toed shoes are a must. Be prepared to traverse both soft sand and wooden boardwalks as you move from the open dunes into more sheltered areas near the Roanoke Sound.

Despite its popularity, the Tracks in the Sand Trail can still offer moments of peaceful solitude, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Dogs are welcome on the trail as long as they’re on a leash, and it's open year-round, making it a great option for a scenic hike no matter the season.

But the true magic of the trail, in my opinion, is how seamlessly it transitions from woodland to shoreline. Hikers will loop by the water's edge before heading back inland. After a peaceful walk through the maritime forest, you’ll find yourself just steps away from the beach, where soft white sand and warm waves invite you to kick off your shoes and dive in. The area remains blissfully quiet—ideal for beach lounging, shell collecting, or floating in the surf with hardly another person in sight.

Remember, pack light but smart:

• Sunscreen
• Water
• Towel
• Reef-safe bug spray

With no entrance, parking, or program fees, and its location right off Milepost 12 on S. Croatan Highway (US 158), Jockey’s Ridge State Park is an accessible and enriching stop for anyone exploring North Carolina’s Outer Banks.