Discovering a beautiful park that somehow you just never got around to visiting can be a delightful surprise – kind of like finding that your 20% off promo code actually works when shopping online. Such is the case with Sandy Run Park in Kitty Hawk, a true hidden gem on the Outer Banks.   

From the ample parking lot, a bridge connects to the half-mile loop nestled within 16 acres of the Kitty Hawk Woods maritime forest. A wide and sturdy elevated boardwalk is accessible to all as it meanders through the lush landscape. Punctuated by ponds shimmering with reflections of the cloud-dotted sky; marsh featuring black needle rushes, giant cordgrass, cattails, and willows; and a verdant expanse of sweet gums, loblolly pines, elms, wax myrtles, American beeches, pignut hickories, and bald cypress, it is, quite literally, a breath of fresh air.   

Excited youngsters shout with glee as they peer into the ponds and observe yellow slider turtles paddling happily to and fro. It’s magical – decidedly more mesmerizing than a TikTok video.  

Climb the steps of the observation viewing tower and take in a bird’s-eye view of the park. Speaking of birds, depending on the season, watch (and listen) for hawks, owls, warblers, osprey, blue heron, wrens, cardinals, chickadees, and woodpeckers (six species!). Have a pair of binoculars at the ready for a closer look and to aid in identification.  

Wet a line and test your luck at catching bluegill (brim), pumpkinseed, and largemouth bass in the freshwater ponds. Don’t underestimate these little fish – they can put up a fight! Note: It’s catch-and-release and a fishing license is required.   

Placards posted along the trail provide information, such as land animals one can expect to see: eastern gray squirrels, white-tailed deer, and rabbits. And from the nocturnal party crowd: opossum, raccoons, gray foxes, and bobcats. But wait! Those wily raccoons are thumbing their black button noses at the rules of the animal kingdom. With the sun hours away from its westerly descent, a trio of these masked critters are scampering around a picnic table nibbling on discarded hamburger rolls.  

Have a seat on one of the many thoughtfully placed benches, take in the scenery, relax, and enjoy the solace. For those who have energy to burn, the trail features fitness areas in a short section of a hard-packed dirt trail where one can engage in light exercise to improve balance and strength. And for adventurers who would like to explore the park by waterways, there are ramps for kayaks. 

The abundant picnic tables may put you in the mood for al fresco dining. Dust off that picnic basket! Gazebos offer shade and shelter, ideal for eating wax paper-wrapped sandwiches surrounded by nature’s ambiance. 

Whether a solo trip or a family outing, spending time on this trail is a fun way to reap the benefits of being outdoors. The fresh air, laced with the crisp scent of the forest and the earthy smell of the marsh, is invigorating. It’s about reconnecting with nature and yourself.  

Sandy Run Park is full of surprises! It’s so much more than just a walk in the park. 

 Sandy Run Park is located at 4343 The Woods Road. The park is open daily 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.