One of the more surprising stretches of the MST is the 6.5-mile stretch that piggybacks on the Neusiok Trail in the Croatan National Forest, from the Pinecliff Recreation Area east to NC 306. At times, it’s very coastal, passing through pine savannah and dense bay groves. But with splashes of holly, galax and other displaced flora. As Beverly H. discovered, “It is a beautiful trail with boardwalks across bogs, views of the Neuse River, and wonderful nature.” Her experience was doubled after exchanging notes with two MST hikers headed in the opposite direction.