MST-52, segment 15

Haws Run Primitive Baptist Church to Jacksonville, eastbound

November 18, 2024. I drove down to Jacksonville Sunday afternoon and stayed at the Red Roof Inn & Suites, my mid-point of a two-day hike (15.0 and 16.9 miles).

I parked my car overnight at Midway Methodist Church, leaving a message on their website contact form–and a note in my windshield: “Please do not tow my car!”

Trail Angel Extraordinaire and former Marine Jimmy shuttled me all the way from Stella to the Haws Run Primitive Baptist Church, west of Jacksonville. Above and beyond! Semper Fi!!!

What a beautiful day for hiking! Isn’t fall just the best?

Four miles along peaceful Haws Run Road

And for some, it’s a VERY peaceful place!

There’s a story here, I’m sure. Norwood the Chicken, Mae the Pig, and Pete the Rooster?

‘Tis the season!

When traffic is light, I can attend to morning devotions right away!

But when traffic increases, I have to give that my full attention.

I took my halfway, sit-down break at the not-so-scenic, but serviceable concrete wall next to the gas station.

The portable restroom at the Southwest Soccer Fields was clean and convenient. We lady hikers have a few more challenges to overcome in this regard.

On paper this junction with the highway looked daunting, but it was actually quite safe.

Even so, after highway shoulders, a sidewalk is always a welcome relief.

Bridge over New River, into the heart of Jacksonville

I detoured into the little riverside park for my shoes-off, dry-socks break.

Since I had all afternoon to get to my hotel, it was nice to just spend some extra time enjoying the view.

Sadly, I saw no alligators.

In 2021 we visited all 100 counties of North Carolina and took photos of each county courthouse. Onslow County has a splendid one.

But I can’t help but think that not all of Onslow’s citizens have “loving” memories–or thoughts–about those “men who wore the grey.”

Jacksonville’s City Hall extends an entire block!

Coastal Carolina State Veteran’s Cemetery

This was the highlight of the hike into Jacksonville. I was glad to have the opportunity and time for reflection.

The Lejeune Trail is a wonderful greenway that runs between the military facility and very busy NC-24.

I took the overpass and hiked the last half-mile on the other side of 24, because that’s where my hotel was.

Home Sweet Home for the night!
I can HIGHLY recommend this hotel. It was conveniently located, a great value for the price, had a 6am breakfast, and the staff was absolutely helpful and friendly. There are many eating options within walking distance, as well. I picked up a sandwich and iced tea at Paris Bahn Mi and watched some movies while resting for tomorrow’s hike.