Neusiok Trail
("noose-ee-ock")
A hidden gem of the NC hiking and backpacking scene, the Neusiok Trail is a destination worthy of travel to the eastern coastal region of the state.
Conventionally, the western mountains of NC are viewed as the hiking and backpacking mecca of the state. However, if you are willing to trade in mountain top vistas for an ocean view, the variety of the Croatan National Forest is explored quite well by the Neusiok. Traversing sandy beaches, salt marshes, cypress swamps, long leaf pin forest and pocosin, the trail winds through a diverse landscape.Amongst other wildlife, hikers may be fortunate enough to see Osprey, Eagles, Turkey, White Tail Dear, Black Bear, Alligator, Copperhead and Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin). Various species of wildflowers (Iris, Jack in the Pulpit, Azalea) may also be found trail side. Please respect all wildlife, flora and fauna, and their habitat.
As part of the Mountains to Sea Trail, in total, the trail covers 21 miles - a near perfect distance for a leisurely overnight hike.The remainder of this review will focus on the northern half of the trail only.
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Hiking from the north east, the northern leg of the trail begins with a hike along a sandy, secluded beach from the Pine Bluff recreation area. Periodically coinciding with a local equestrian trail, the Neusiok generally follows the coastline.
Breaking inland, a portion of the trail overlooks the beach from the bluff, but those wanting to remain on the beach can cut back to the trail on either side of the bluff.
The beachfront traverse of the trail was the most popular portion of the trail. However, if a secluded hike is what you seek, do not be discourage. The vast majority of people stroll the beach but do not partake in the trail system that is available. For those who do, this section simply provides a serene beginning a long walk in the woods. Even better, taken as an overnight "in and out" hike, your trip will end at the beach!
During the Pine Bluff portion of the trail, a nesting pair of Osprey kept a watchful eye on hikers below. (SOAPBOX: Please observe wildlife from afar and do not disturb their habitat. If you note a change in their behavior, you are having an impact!)
Before long, the trail reaches the Neuse River Delta. Weaving through small swamps and tidal flats, the trail returns to the beach briefly. Stepping down from the bluff, cypress stands mark the departure from the coastline.
At approximately 3.5 miles into the hike, the first shelter will be found. Copperhead Landing stands perched along side the Neuse River, overlooking the salt marshes. Each three walled shelter encountered will provide a nice place to rest your feet, a fire pit with cooking grate and water from a hand pumped well (see backpacking tips below).
Journeying from Copperhead Landing, backpackers will find the next overnight area at Dogwood Shelter (11.1 miles from trail start). Between the two shelters, hikers will cross two roads (306 and 101) but do not be discouraged by this. The hike is well worth the momentary inconvenience of civilization and quickly returns to Long Leaf Pine savannah and pocosin.
The remainder of the northern leg of the trail to Dogwood Shelter weaves through forest and bog. Small changes in elevation from flat lands to swamp are marked by several small streams and foot bridges. Portions of the trail, sometimes lengthy, forge the bog on boardwalk and cross through "Cottonmouth Spa" and "Toad Wallow". Arrival at Dogwood will provided hikers a convenient and welcomed resting point in the middle of their journey.
An excellent ingress to coastal backpacking, not enough can be said about the beauty of the Neusiok Trail. Crossing multiple ecosystems, lush with wildlife and wildflowers, the trail receives a 4 star rating. As a relatively flat, open trail complete with shelters and water supply, the Neusiok is perfect for beginners or those looking for a more mellow backpacking adventure. For those more experienced, this hike should still not be overlooked due to the incredible variety and rare opportunity to step outside of a mountain ecosystem and get lost in the woods.
Backpacking the Neusiok, a few general tips:
- Water on the trail is not scarce, but flowing water is. Water is generally available at the shelters through a hand pump well, but may have a metallic taste. It is recommended to pack in water and/or a water purifier/filter to treat the well water. Once purified, vitamin C tablets or powder (Emergen-C) can be added to enhance the flavor.
- Waterproof hiking boots are recommended. Although boardwalks cover the majority the bog and swamp areas, sections of the trail may contain standing water dependent on recent local weather.
- Camping is permitted anywhere on trail. However, much of the trail is dense with underbrush and improvised tent sites may be hard to come by. It is suggested that trips should include plans to overnight at the existing shelter areas.
- Black bears do populate the Croatan National Forest. Please remember to evacuate your tent of all food, toiletries and scented objects - and to distance such items from your campsite in a bear bag.
- Hiking the Neusiok is a seasonal affair. Exploring the trail is recommended winter through early spring as during other seasons mosquitoes and other biting insects are more active.
As always, please practice "no trace left behind", treat the environment with respect with respect and be safe in the wilderness.
Official Neusiok Trail Brochure
