Nags Head to Jockeys Ridge State Park, northbound
June 19, 2025. This final hike for Segment 18 was 8.5 miles, mostly along the beach, with a final mile inland to the top of a sand dune in Jockeys Ridge State Park.
I left our vacation house in Nags Head at 6am, walked out to the beach, and turned left.
6am was a later start than I prefer for what would be a very hot day, but because Low Tide was also an hour later, I wanted all that nice, firm sand to walk on.
Walking alongside the ocean is really a delightful place for morning devotions!
The outside restroom at Jennette’s Pier was closed, but I was greatly relieved to find the indoor ones available. On busier sections of beach, a lady hiker really appreciates having public facilities!
I took a good break in the shade at Jennette’s Pier, because this day got hot, quick.
Three miles to go.
As I approached this final turn off the beach, I imagined how exciting it would be for someone who was completing ALL of the MST at this point. For me, it’s just the end of Segment 18.
Goodbye, Atlantic Ocean!
I’ve been to the Outer Banks many times, but never visited this state park before!
The shade was most welcome.
I stopped at the Visitor Center for a few minutes of AC and to sign the MST Trail Register.
What a great monument! The husband-shuttle walked with me from the parking lot to get this photo.
After the requisite photo op, the MST hiker still has a final ascent–up to the top of the tallest dune.
There it is! The end of Segment 18.
I was very much looking forward to a celebratory milkshake, but we couldn’t find any place open before 10am.
I’ve completed 850 miles!
Segments 1-4, and most of 5 still to go.
But for now, more family fun at the Outer Banks!
My.Bird.Walks. 