Martin Marietta Park, located alongside the picturesque Neuse River in New Bern, North Carolina, is a magnificent 888-acre destination that has quickly gained popularity among both locals and visitors. Once a limestone quarry, this revitalized area now features over 7 miles of soft-surface, relatively flat trails, offering spectacular views of three large lakes on the property. This makes the park an ideal spot for hiking, biking, and wildlife enthusiasts (we spotted bald eagles, osprey, and herons when we visited).
The images below are clickable, allowing you to view more pictures and a YouTube video of each trail. We also have a quick list view available in a table format if that is more your style. Happy adventuring!
Table of Contents
Dragonfly Trail
🌿 The Dragonfly Trail is a scenic 2.9-mile loop.
🗺️ The trail can easily be combined with the Island Pond Trail to extend the hike.
🐉 Named after the colorful dragonflies that frequent the area.
🚶♀️ Ideal for hiking, biking, trail running, and birdwatching.
🏞️ Offers stunning views of lakes, Spanish moss-draped trees, and the Neuse River.
♿ Gravel and sand surface make it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, though some sandy patches require caution.
🪑 Benches are available along the path for rest stops.
🐶 Dog-friendly trail; pets are welcome on a leash.
☀️ Limited shade, so sunscreen is recommended on sunny days.
🌳 Well-maintained paths provide a serene environment for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Explorer Trail
🌳 The Explorer Trail is a scenic 2.3-mile path.
🚶♂️ Suitable for hiking, biking, trail running, and birdwatching with stunning lake views.
♿ Most of the trail is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, though some grassy areas may be challenging.
🐕 Dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets along the path.
🪑 Benches are available for resting throughout the trail.
🔭 Features two wooden platforms and an observation area for wildlife and lake viewing.
☀️ Limited shade along the trail; sunscreen is recommended on sunny days.
🍽️ Leads to a picnic shelter and playground for sun protection.
➕ Can be combined with the Dragonfly Trail for a longer hiking experience.
✔️ Separated by the Story Walk Trail, and continues on the opposite side.
Island Pond Trail
🌳 The Island Pond Trail is a scenic 1.75-mile loop.
🗺️ The trail can easily be combined with the Dragonfly Trail to extend the hike.
🚶♂️ It’s an easy, flat trail ideal for hiking, biking, trail running, and birdwatching, with views of two lakes.
🌲 The trail has a unique wooded area with pine trees and a mostly gravel and sand surface for accessibility.
🪑 Benches are available for rest stops, and the trail is dog-friendly for leashed pets.
☀️ Most sections lack significant shade, so sunscreen is recommended.
🦅 Wildlife sightings, like bald eagles, can occur along the trail!
Story Walk Trail
📖 The Story Walk Trail combines literacy with outdoor fun.
🌳 The trail is about half a mile long and features pages from children’s books along the path.
📚 Developed with the Friends of the New Bern Public Library to promote reading in nature.
♿️ Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, enhancing family-friendly enjoyment.
🛝 The trail wraps around a pavilion and playground, making it a perfect spot for families to spend time together.
🌊 Located on a beautiful site along the Neuse River, offering scenic views.