Exploring the Trails of Washington, NC: A Year of Adventure

2023 has been declared the year of the trail by the North Carolina legislature, and Washington, NC has many ways you can follow a Trail in some traditional ways, and some not so traditional ways. This fall is a perfect time to explore all the trails that Washington has to offer.

One of the best ways to explore the Year of the Trail is at Goose Creek State Park. Just 10 miles east of Washington, the park has everything from a 2.5 mile trail or a short .3 mile trail. According to park ranger Jason Pilkington, the most popular trail is the Palmetto Trail with a boardwalk going over the wetlands and through the woods. “We have incredible wildlife here. You can spot different kinds of birds, salamanders, turtles, fish, frogs, snakes, and different kinds of flora that grow along the boardwalk.”

Goose Creek State Parks Live Oak Trail is also a popular trail at the park. The trail’s namesake is the century old oak trees that surround the water. It is also popular because it’s home to a swim beach right there at the park. Other popular trails include the Mallard Creek Trail, as well as the Flatty Creek Trail. Both have overlooks with beautiful views of the Pamlico River. Pilkington says The Tar Kiln trail is home to centuries-old naval stores. “It’s one of the most historic trails in the park.” More information about the park can be found here.

If you’re into paddling, (or just plain fun), then check out the Tar-Pamlico Water Trail. Sound Rivers Program Director, Clay Barber, says it’s one of the best ‘trails’ around. “This area had some of the best paddling because of the still water. Also, it’s not too deep or too shallow. The trail site has a map, camping platform information, and a wealth of knowledge about the Washington area’s local paddle trails.”

Another trail you’ll want to explore in Washington is the Arts and Culture Trail. Washington is home to several art galleries, including the galleries inside the Turnage Theatre, Lemonade Art Gallery, River Walk Gallery, ,Lone Leaf Gallery & Custom Framing, and Art Tyndall Studio, but the trail expands throughout the county to include arts organizations in Bath, Belhaven, and Aurora.

Brontë Labee, Visual Arts and Marketing Director for the Beaufort County Arts Council, (formally Arts of the Pamlico), says that they want ALL arts entities in the county to know that they are a resource for the arts here. “We look forward to educating all of our local arts communities on the benefits we can provide to them. Especially some of the more rural areas. They are all part of our Arts & Culture Trail here in Beaufort County.”

Some of the other stops on the Arts & Culture Trail include the NC Estuarium, the Washington Waterfront Underground Railroad Museum, and the Aurora Fossil Museum.

If you’re looking for another physical trail to peruse, explore the Washington Waterfront, as well as the boardwalk that extends around the Estuarium and over the beautiful wetlands along the river. You’ll see ducks, turtles, and many types of birds and fish ‘saying hello’ along your trek.

Washington also hosts a self-paced historic walking tour, as well as free audio tours that you can login to your mobile device to learn about local history, architecture, ghost stories, and the lore of one of the first major ports in the country.

No matter what ‘trail’ you decide to explore in Washington, you’re sure to find something that peaks your interest and fulfills your sense of adventure! For more visitor information, go to www.visitwashingtonnc.com.