2025 Gathering of Friends

March 21-23, 2025

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Gathering of Friends 2024

Registration is now open!

Join us for Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail’s annual Gathering of Friends on the Outer Banks March 21-23, 2025!

We had an amazing time at the 2024 Gathering of Friends in Black Mountain and can’t wait to celebrate with the MST community on the coast next year.

 

When?

March 21 – 23, 2025

Where?

We have room blocks in two neighboring hotels for attendees to enjoy time together in Kill Devil Hills near the event venues. Discounted event rates are available Thursday, March 20 – Sunday, March 23, 2025. Please contact one of the hotels or campgrounds listed below to reserve your lodging.

Comfort Inn on the Ocean

(1601 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills)
There are two ways to reserve your room (make sure to book at Kill Devil Hills location):
• Call 252-441-6333 and mention that you are with “Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail – March 2025” or you may reserve online here

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham

(1701 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills)
There are two ways to reserve your room:
• Call 252-441-2151 and mention that you are with Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, or you may reserve online here

Oregon Inlet Campground

(Cape Hatteras National Seashore)
Reservations at the campground are available up to 6 months in advance, so they are available now.
• Call 877-444-6777 or you may reserve online here

Who?

You! All are welcome to attend the annual Gathering of Friends. If you are a current member of the Friends of the MST, we’re excited to have you back. If you aren’t a current member, you are welcome to join today or when you register for this event. Become a member today or join the Friends of the MST when you register by simply selecting non-member pricing which includes a $35 donation to become a member.

Registration?

Registration is now open!

Registration for the Gathering of Friends includes:

  • Welcome Reception will include drinks, heavy hors d’oeuvres and silent auction on Friday at Jennette’s Pier, the Annual Meeting on Saturday (includes lunch) at Roanoke Island Festival Park and Jockey’s Ridge State Park, and all free excursions is $85 (plus $35 for non-members).
  • You may register for each day individually, at a rate of $45 for the Friday Welcome Reception, or $55 for the Saturday Annual Meeting.
  • Up to 3 additional guests may attend for $75 each for the entire event (with options of only attending one or the other event as well).
  • Friday ONLY guest $45
  • Saturday ONLY guest $55

REGISTER HERE

The 2025 weekend at the Outer Banks includes:

  • Early bird meet-up on Thursday evening
  • Friday’s Welcome Reception at Jennette’s Pier
  • Saturday’s Friends of the MST annual meeting at Roanoke Island Festival Park with group hike and presentation at Jockey’s Ridge State Park
  • Recognition of MST volunteers and completers
  • Guided tours, excursions and hikes
  • Opportunities to learn from and connect with local partners
  • Time for fellowship with Friends of the MST and MORE!

2025 Schedule Overview

Outer Banks

  • Thursday, March 20

    If you arrive early, come out and connect with Friends! Several excursions and hikes will be offered during the day and then we’ll gather that evening at a fun brewery for drinks and dinner on your own.

  • Friday, March 21

    Multiple guided hikes and excursions in the morning to explore the Outer Banks; multiple breakout sessions in the afternoon; lunch on your own; Welcome Reception to recognize our volunteers will include cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres and silent auction beginning at 4:00 PM at Jennette’s Pier.

  • Saturday, March 22

    Annual meeting for Friends of the MST will be held at Roanoke Island Festival Park Theater; guest speakers will provide updates on the trail, volunteer opportunities, and so much more, followed by lunch and a guided hike at Jockey’s Ridge State Park; wrapping up with dinner on your own and returning to Roanoke Island Festival Park theater for a fun evening presentation.

  • Sunday, March 23

    Guided hikes and excursions in the area!

MST Gathering Group of Hikers

2025 Sponsors

Sponsorships are available for the Gathering.
This event is possible because of the strong support of our partners.