Trails
Refuge trails give visitors an opportunity to discover different habitats of the refuge: dunes, swales, wetlands, maritime forests and scrub habitats. The trails are open year-round, sunrise to sunset and highlight the unique features of the area. Refuge staff, volunteers and partners offer guided bird walks, dune hikes, and night prowls throughout the year. All refuge trails are designed for foot traffic, bicycles are not allowed.
At this time, all trails are open, however, the Centennial and Gator Lake Trail boardwalks have been closed due to safety concerns. We are working on repairing and replacing these sections, please check back for updates here and on our social media for re-openings.
Centennial Trail
Explore the transition from maritime forest to dune swales discovering different species of plants and wildlife along the way. This trail connects Jeff Friend Trail and Pine Beach Trail. Rating: Moderate (ground may be wet in some areas).
Trail Length (mi)
2.06
Trail Difficulty
Moderate
Estimated Time
2 hours
Route Type
Point to point
Trail Activities
Birding
Hiking
Photography
Wildlife watching
Gator Lake Trail
Walk along a dune ridge and see many species of birds and plants that are typical of this transitional habitat between the maritime forest and the frontal dunes. The end of this trail is at the Lagoon and the Pine Beach Trail intersection.
Trail Length (mi)
0.78
Trail Difficulty
Moderate
Estimated Time
1 Hour
Route Type
Point to point
Trail Activities
Beach combing
Birding
Photography
Wildlife watching
Suitability
Kid friendly
Jeff Friend Trail
Explore maritime forest, wetlands and Little Lagoon. Many species of plants and birds can often be seen along this universally accessible trail. Rating: Easy to moderate. This trail is a loop trail and takes approximately 1 hour to enjoy.
Trail Length (mi)
0.78
Trail Difficulty
Moderate
Estimated Time
1 hour
Route Type
Loop
Trail Activities
Accessible trails
Birding
Fish viewing
Hiking
Photography
Wildlife watching
Suitability
Kid friendly
Wheelchair friendly
Pine Beach Trail
Explore the plants and wildlife of an intact dune ecosystem that includes maritime forest, scrub and dune habitats. This unique trail features a saltwater lagoon on one side and a freshwater lake on the other. At the 1 mile marker check out the observation tower for an amazing view of Gator Lake. Rating: moderate to strenuous (some sandy terrain).
Trail Length (mi)
1.65
Trail Difficulty
Hard
Estimated Time
2 Hours
Route Type
Out & back
Trail Activities
Birding
Hiking
Photography
Wildlife watching
Suitability
Kid friendly