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Recreation
Self-Guided Hiking Trails
Tracks in the Sand is a 1.5 mile leisurely paced trail
that begins at the parking lot and goes over the dunes, to the soundside, and
back. The trail focuses on the harsh, yet fragile sand dune environment and the
plants and animals that call it home. Shoes are a must.
 A 360-foot boardwalk is located near the parking
lot. It is perfect for people who prefer a shorter trip or would rather stay
off the sand. Interpretive displays along the route offer information about the
plants and animals in the area. A deck with a bench is at the end with a great
view of the dunes.
Soundside Nature Trail – 1 mile loop that begins at
the soundside parking lot and leads to an overlook. This trail focuses on the
estuary and scrub thicket ecosytems found at the park.
Airborne
Activities
Hang-gliding is allowed on certain dune faces in the
park. Only those persons with a USHGA Hang 1 or other agency-approved rating
card may hang-glide on Jockey's Ridge. All hang-gliders must register  with
the Park Office. Hang-gliding activity stops one hour before the park closes.
Lessons are available from Kitty Hawk Kites at the Hang-gliding Facility
near the Visitor Center. Landing areas are designated by orange
cones.
Kite Flying – The views are great from the top of
the ridge, and so is the wind! Head on up and let your spirit (and your kite)
soar. Please be considerate and conscious of safety concerns if you are flying
a stunt kite.
Sand-boarding
Sand-boarding is allowed in a designated area of the
park from October 1 to March 31. Permits must be obtained from the park office.
Parents have to sign for anyone under 18.
Water
Sports
Kayaking, windsurfing and swimming are permitted at the
soundside access off of the Soundside Road. The Roanoke Sound is a great,
shallow place for playing in the water. Access to the sound is located on the
southwest corner of the park. To get to the parking lot, take a right onto
Soundside Road just past the dunes, and go until the road starts to curve to
the left. The entrance to the parking area is on the right. Windsurfers must use designated launch area.
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