Jockey’s Ridge State Park is known for being the tallest sand dune on the Atlantic Coast. This beautiful state park affords breathtaking views, unspoiled natural surroundings, and ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. From hiking to hang gliding, there’s no better place to spend a day. Everyone in the family is bound to find something that piques their interest.
Read on to learn more about some of the best reasons you should include visiting this state park in your Outer Banks itinerary. Then, be sure to check out our complimentary Travel Guide for more local insight on the area’s best things to do.
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4 Ways Uncover the Majestic Beauty of Jockey’s Ridge State Park
1. Hike Beautiful Nature Trails
Maybe you’d like to hike to the top of the dune at Jockey’s Ridge for outstanding views of the Outer Banks and the Atlantic Ocean. Perhaps you’d rather stroll along the boardwalk and take in the salty air. There are three trails that are open to visitors. Now, let’s determine which one is right for you.
- The Boardwalk | Length: 0.07 miles one way | Difficulty: Easy
- Soundside Nature Trail | Length: 0.60 miles loop | Difficulty: Easy
- Tracks in the Sand Trail | Length: 1.20 miles loop | Difficulty: Moderate
2. Soar Over the Sand Dunes
Go hang gliding on Jockey’s Ridge! Take inspiration from famous Wright Brothers who were inspired to take flight on the Outer Banks’ tall dunes. The 10-15 mph winds make for the perfect weather to enjoy soaring through the blue skies. You must have a USHPA Hang 1 or another agency-approved rating card to hang glide. Alternatively, you can take lessons with Kitty Hawk Kites.
3. Enjoy a Peaceful Picnic
The park boasts eight picnic shelters near the parking area where you can share a meal with your friends and family in the great outdoors! Each shelter has two tables and a grill.
4. Admire the Local Flora & Fauna
Keep your eyes peeled for chirping songbirds, hopping cottontail rabbits, and sneaky foxes while exploring the park. You should also remember to stop and smell the flowers. The region’s diverse ecology is ideally suited for plant life that ranges from swampy live oaks and wax myrtles to brackish cattails and needlegrass rush.
Stay in a Beautiful Paramount Destinations Vacation Home
Our accommodating vacation homes set the scene for the ideal family vacation. Between adventures such as exploring Jockey’s Ridge State Park and searching for Corolla’s wild horses, you can return to your home away from home to relax. We know how important it is to provide the perfect environment for you and your family while you’re on vacation. That’s why we offer a wide variety of homes that feature essential amenities such as private pools and elevators. We even have homes available that are suitable for your furry family members as well! Our reliable team goes above and beyond to ensure that your stay is one that you and your loved ones will remember for a lifetime.
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