Autumn at Nags Head Woods and pileated woodpecker

Hit the Trail

 

 Paddling on the Chowan River

Discover all the Places We Protect
Looking for other places to explore in North Carolina? The Nature Conservancy has protected nearly 700,000 acres from the mountains to the coast. Visit the Places We Protect to learn more and plan your next outdoor adventure.

Cape Lookout National Seashore
Separated from the mainland by Pamlico, Core and Black Sounds, the sandy islands of the Cape Lookout National Seashore include 56 miles of undeveloped beach. Accessible only by boat or private ferry, the seashore has limited visitor facilities but offers a wilderness experience unlike anywhere else on the North Carolina coast. Miles of dune, extensive marshes, abundant birdlife and wonderful kayaking opportunities allow visitors to get a glimpse of the state’s unspoiled past. Birders should plan a visit during fall migration, from September to mid-October. For more information, call (252) 728-2250 or visit www.nps.gov.

Rachel Carson Estuarine Research Reserve
This series of protected islands across from historic Beaufort offers more than 2,600 acres of protected estuarine habitats. Stay in Beaufort, as the reserve is accessible only by boat; visitors may use their own or contact the local boating or kayaking concessions. Popular sites include Carrot Island, Town Marsh and Bird Shoal, which feature mudflats, uplands and salt marshes—and for lucky visitors, a chance encounter with a small herd of feral horses. Late summer through early winter are perfect for birdwatching, when shorebirds, marsh birds and wading birds can all be seen. For more information, visit www.ncnerr.org.

Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve
Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1974, protecting the maritime forests of Nags Head Woods was one of the Conservancy’s first priorities in North Carolina. Now at more than 1,000 acres, the Preserve features trails through dunes, marshes and wetlands, as well as wonderful views of the sound—and of the development pressures facing the area. More than 50 bird species nest here and the marshes offer habitat for otter, muskrat and waterfowl. In fall, look for salamanders, screech owls and pileated woodpeckers.

Nature picture credits (top to bottom, left to right): Pond at Nags Head Woods and pileated woodpecker © Jodie LaPoint/TNC; paddling on the Chowan River © Mark Daniels/TNC.