The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Shackleford

Shackleford Banks offers a unique, undeveloped barrier island experience perfect for families. It's an expansive natural environment where you can explore pristine beaches, shrub thickets, and maritime forests. The main draw for families is the chance to observe the wild horses, often called "Banker ponies," roaming freely. It's a fantastic opportunity for wildlife watching, beachcombing, and enjoying unspoiled coastal nature.

Our guide features 12 family-friendly hiking routes around Shackleford. Most of these, 9 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them suitable for various ages and fitness levels. There are also 3 moderate routes for families looking for a bit more of a challenge.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1900 ratings. Reviewers often praise the unique experience of seeing the wild horses, the beautiful, untouched beaches perfect for shelling, and the overall sense of natural escape the island provides.

Yes, there are several circular routes that are great for families. For an easy option, consider the Shackleford Village – Cuttmill Pond loop from Shackleford, which is about 6.6 km long. Another easy choice is the Shackleford Village loop from Shackleford, covering approximately 4.7 km. For a slightly longer, moderate circular hike, the Shackleford loop is a good option at nearly 10 km.

Beyond the famous wild horses, Shackleford Banks is home to diverse wildlife. You might spot ghost crabs, gray foxes, otters, and blue crabs. It's also an excellent spot for birdwatching, with opportunities to see shorebirds, water birds, and migratory species like pelicans, plovers, skimmers, terns, and sandpipers near the ocean, and egrets and ibises in the marsh areas.

The wild horses are a highlight of Shackleford Banks. While observing them, it's crucial to maintain a respectful distance of at least 50 feet for your safety and theirs. They are wild animals, and their behavior can be unpredictable. Enjoy watching them in their natural habitat from a safe distance.

While Shackleford Banks itself is an undeveloped natural landmark, the surrounding region offers historical sites. You can explore places like Guildford Castle Grounds or Farnham Castle Keep. For natural viewpoints, consider Gibbet Hill Viewpoint or Crooksbury Hill Viewpoint, which offer scenic vistas.

Access to Shackleford Banks is exclusively by boat. You can typically take ferry services from nearby towns such as Morehead City, Beaufort, or Harkers Island. This adds to the island's allure as a secluded natural escape, making the journey part of the adventure.

Children will love the thrill of spotting wild horses and the excitement of beachcombing for unique shells, as Shackleford Banks is known as one of the finest shelling locations on the East Coast. The expansive, unspoiled beaches provide plenty of space for exploration and play, making it an engaging outdoor experience for all ages.

Given the undeveloped nature of the island, it's essential to be prepared. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hats, sunscreen), insect repellent, and sturdy footwear suitable for walking on sand and uneven terrain. Remember to pack out everything you pack in, as it's a preserved natural area.