The 2.5 mile (one way) Nature Trail is the primary use site for the public at Pine Island Sanctuary. It follows the path of the old dirt road between Duck and Corolla. Along the way you will see Evergreen Maritmine Forests of Loblolly Pine and twisted Live Oaks, stunted Oak forests and the rare Red Bay Shrub Swamp. 

Two Overlooks, one near the south end and the other 1 mile down from the north end provide sweeping views of the Globally Important Bird Area - The Pine Island and Currituck Marshes and Currituck Sound. 

In summer, osprey, egrets and terns dominate the marsh, in winter the famed Currituck Waterfowl fill the marshes.