Waterfall Hero Hikes: Patsy Pond Nature Trail (Croatan)

Patsy Pond Nature Trail winds through Croatan National Forest in Carteret County. The trail is a collaboration between the Forest Service and the North Carolina Coastal Federation, which developed and manages the trail. This area of the forest is a Longleaf Pine Flatwoods, characterized by an open woodland of longleaf pine and low-growing shrubs. Three loop trails, open to foot traffic only, wind throughout the woodlands, past ponds and sinkholes.

Directions:

From Morehead City, head west on US-70 for about 4 miles and bear left to get on NC-24 west. Go 9.8 miles and turn right into the parking area for Patsy Pond.

Map:

Trails:

Blue Trail:

Blue Trail splits from Green Trail near the start and makes a loop of about 1 mile along the south shore of Patsy Pond.

Green Trail:

Green Trail is a 3/4 mile loop and the shortest loop through the area.

Yellow Trail:

Yellow Trail is the longest trail at 1.9 miles. Yellow Trail splits from Green Trail and makes a big loop around Lily Pond and Patsy Pond.

Points of Interest:

Bob's Sinkhole:

Bob's Sinkhole is located right near the trailhead.

Wildlife:

The open woodlands of longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) require periodic fires to clear vegetation and support new growth. This tree was growing in a knot.