Martin Marietta Park – Island Pond Trail

The Island Pond Trail at Martin Marietta Park in New Bern, North Carolina, is a scenic 1.75-mile loop that meanders through a former quarry, now transformed into a vibrant natural oasis. This easy, flat trail is perfect for hiking, biking, trail running, and birdwatching, offering stunning views of two of the park’s lakes.

The trail features a wooded area lined with pine trees, making it unique among the park’s trails. Most of the trail is covered with a gravel and sand surface, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, some sections that wind through the woods may have natural surfaces like leaves and pine needles.

There are plenty of benches along the path for rest stops, and the trail is dog-friendly, welcoming leashed pets. Keep in mind that most of the trail lacks significant shade, so sunscreen is recommended. During our visit, we spotted a bald eagle along the trail, so be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife! This trail can easily be combined with the Dragonfly Trail for a longer hike.