Mackay Island 10-12 Mile Hike

Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge. Knotts Island, NC
10-12 mile hike.

We’re going back to see more as trails are now officially open. Was denied last month only a mile in due to trail maintenance. It was a bummer.

This is a new spot for me, so I don’t have a bunch of details. It’s not too far over the NC border.

592 Knotts Island Rd (Route 615)
is closest address to trailhead meet up point.
NOT the 316 Marsh Causeway location that maps might use.
Once you pull into drive, park at overhang on the left along the side of the road. We hike from the overhang & not drive down to actual trails.

1.5 miles(?) down to
Mackay Island Trail (2.9 miles) &
Live Oaks Point Trail (5.5 miles)
(I’m thinking do a figure 8 on them?)
1.5 miles back up to cars.
Should be 10-12 miles total.

We were on drivable gravel road for first part. Not sure what the actual trails are, as I’ve never been. I assume gravel/dirt mix. This place is flat & open. No canopy & winds can be gusty. I’ve heard it’s like Back Bay/ False Cape, but with more water. Sounds fun & interesting.

As always…
20min/mile pace is easy average on flat land.
What you carry in, you carry out.
Snack, water & proper attire
recommended.
Sunscreen & bug spray always help.
Free parking.
Visitor Center is closed so I don’t know restroom situation. (I think there’s one down towards the actual trails starting point)
Dogs allowed if leashed.
Long orange beard & black Cadillac with trunk open is me.
I like to set out on time so arrive early.

Weather cancellation would be early the morning of. I’ll probably post update the night before. Those who know, know I usually go. Bad weather doesn’t always mean bad hike. Although, this place leaves us 100% exposed.

Contact me if you have any questions.