Self-Guided 8 Mile Hike 

Meet at start of boardwalk in Soundside Park, 517 Roland Ave, Surf City, NC 28445.  This is to the left as you first enter the park, near the bathrooms. Please take care NOT to park in any spots designated for those using the boat launch, towards the back of the lot.

Join others interested in hiking the entire 8- mile stretch along Topsail Island.  This is all on the beach and will be group-guided.  The route passes two of seven concrete observation towers built by the US Navy in World War II for Operation Bumblebee, a secret guided missile testing program that operated on Topsail Island from 1946 to 1948.  Hikers will also pass through Ocean City Community, which was founded in 1949 as one of the first family-oriented beaches for African Americans who at that time could not usually purchase beachfront property.

You will meet local MST-section hiker Kimberly Briggs at Soundside Park. She will share tips about the route, however this is a self-guided hike because hikers may enjoy walking at different speeds.  Since it is a linear hike, shuttles need to be set prior to start of hike; Kimberly is willing to help as needed.  A few days before the hike, all hikers will be connected by email to determine what shuttle needs are.