The best biking trails in the Outer Banks showcase the region’s diverse landscapes—from soundside sunsets to windswept dunes and hidden forest paths. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist logging miles or just want a scenic cruise, the OBX offers a range of trails to suit every pace. With well-maintained paths, bike-friendly towns, and plenty of natural beauty, it’s easy to see why the Outer Banks is a favorite destination for riders of all kinds.
This guide highlights top trails that offer everything from oceanfront pedaling to peaceful rides through maritime forests. Bring your own bike or rent locally, and prepare to explore the OBX on two wheels.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers one of the most iconic cycling experiences in the OBX. Stretching along NC Highway 12 from Nags Head to Ocracoke Island, this area includes both paved and natural-surface paths that weave through dunes, marshes, and seashore vistas.
Riders can enjoy long scenic stretches or take shorter loops near popular points of interest. The 4-mile Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Trail is a favorite, giving cyclists an up-close view of the lighthouse along with quiet, sandy paths perfect for nature lovers. It’s an ideal mix of history and scenery for a relaxing coastal ride.
Duck Trail
Running the length of the quaint town of Duck, the Duck Trail is a paved multi-use path that’s perfect for casual riders and families. This accessible route offers a peaceful ride through shady maritime forests, past shops, and along scenic portions of the Currituck Sound.
You can start at the Duck Town Park and wind your way through three miles of charming village vibes. With plenty of spots to stop for ice cream, browse boutiques, or catch a waterfront sunset, the Duck Trail is as much about the experience as it is the ride.
Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve
Located in Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve offers a network of biking and hiking trails immersed in one of the most ecologically rich areas on the Outer Banks. This nature preserve features dirt trails that pass through maritime forests, freshwater ponds, and even wetlands.
The Sweetgum Swamp Trail is a 3.5-mile loop that takes cyclists through dense woods where deer, songbirds, and wildflowers thrive. The ride is serene and shaded—ideal for those looking to escape the beach crowds and reconnect with nature.
Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve
The Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve offers a slightly more adventurous ride. This area is a mix of singletrack and wider wooded trails ideal for mountain bikers or anyone seeking a moderate challenge.
The 5-mile Ridge Trail loop is one of the most popular, winding through thick forests and skirting quiet creeks and marshland. Riders may encounter herons, turtles, and other wildlife along the way. While it’s not overly technical, the trail offers just enough terrain variety to keep things interesting for intermediate riders.
Buxton Woods Coastal Reserve
For those venturing farther south, the Buxton Woods Coastal Reserve on Hatteras Island is a hidden gem. This reserve features some of the last remaining ancient maritime forest in the region, and the trails are lush, peaceful, and steeped in natural history.
The Buxton Woods Trail is a 3-mile loop perfect for nature lovers. The path passes through canopies of old-growth trees, wetlands, and historic relics from OBX’s past. It’s a great option for riders looking for a quiet, shaded route rich with ecological and cultural value.
Why the Outer Banks is perfect for biking
The OBX is an ideal place for biking thanks to its flat terrain, mild coastal breezes, and abundance of scenic trails. Many towns, including Duck, Nags Head, and Kill Devil Hills, are bike-friendly and offer designated paths, bike racks, and rental shops.
From paved boardwalks to sandy singletrack, the variety of trails ensures that riders of all preferences can find something enjoyable. The changing landscapes—from beach to forest to village—make every ride feel fresh and unique.
Tips for biking in the OBX
Always carry water, especially during the warmer months when temperatures can rise quickly. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent will also make your ride more comfortable. If you’re riding on mixed-use trails, be courteous to pedestrians and follow posted signs.
Most trails are accessible year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions. Many OBX vacation rentals and hotels offer bike storage or even complimentary bicycles, so check before you arrive.
Final thoughts on the best biking trails in the Outer Banks
Exploring the best biking trails in the Outer Banks is one of the most rewarding ways to experience this coastal paradise. Whether you’re meandering through maritime forests, cruising beside the sea, or riding into town for a bite, the OBX has trails that suit every rider’s pace and preference.
To keep your adventure going, check out Kayaking Adventures in the Outer Banks.
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