Trail Town Destination Trip Tips
There’s more to Moore County than world-class golf. From rugged trails and peaceful longleaf pine forests to small-town restaurants and unexpected local gems, the Sandhills offers plenty of reasons to get outside and explore. Melissa Holt, Vice President of Visit Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen, shares some of her favorite ways to experience the area, including an under-the-radar trail system in northern Moore County that’s well worth the trip.
Q: What’s your favorite season to recreate in NC and why?
A: Fall is one of the best times to get outdoors in North Carolina, with cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, colorful foliage, and clearer views through the woods. Add in a full season of outdoor activities and events, and it’s the perfect time to hit the trails and explore.
Q: Most overlooked area to recreate?
A: The Bear Creek Trail System in Robbins, NC.
Q: What level of experience is needed to recreate on the Bear Creek Trails?
A: I would say novice to intermediate, depending on your level of mobility and fitness.
Q: How long should someone plan on visiting the Bear Creek trail system?
A: For a typical recreational visit to the Bear Creek Trail System in Robbins, I’d recommend planning about 1½–2 hours. That gives you enough time to enjoy the scenery along Bear and Cabin Creeks and hike one of the shorter loops without rushing.
The trail system has more than fourteen miles of hiking and biking trails, so someone wanting a substantial hike could easily spend 2½–4+ hours there.
Q: What sets Bear Creek Trails apart from other recreation destinations?
A: The Bear Creek trails are a rugged creekside trail system offering a more adventurous, off-the-beaten-path way to explore northern Moore County. The trail system winds through wooded terrain around Bear Creek and Cabin Creek, with varied elevations and routes ranging from easy to difficult, giving visitors options for both a casual walk and a more challenging hike.
Q: What is unique about the facilities and infrastructure of the Bear Creek trails?
A: Bear Creek Trails offers a network of natural-surface trails that wind along creeks, around the reservoir, and through beautiful wooded terrain with plenty of elevation changes along the way. With a more rugged, natural feel than a traditional park or paved greenway, it’s a great place to get outdoors and experience a wilder side of Moore County.
Q: How do you plan ahead and prepare for your recreational activity at Bear Creek Trails and elsewhere in Moore County?
A: I always wear comfortable, activity-appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring water, sun protection, insect repellent, and a fully charged phone.
Q: What piece of outdoor equipment is your must-have?
A: Good shoes are a must for me (especially the older I get!).
Q: How do you put one Outdoor NC Leave No Trace principle in action before/during/or after your activity?
A: For Bear Creek Trails specifically, the Leave No Trace principle, “Plan Ahead and Prepare,” is especially important because of the size and rural setting of the trail system. Unexpected situations can happen outdoors, so knowing your route, checking conditions, and bringing the right supplies can help ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Q: Favorite place for to visit before or after an outdoor adventure for a meal/coffee/or another beverage in Moore County?
A: I need a little caffeination before—and sometimes after—a hike, so I recommend stopping by Simply Coffee in Robbins on your way to Bear Creek Trails. If you need breakfast, head to Midway Grill for one of their famous cat head biscuits. And when you’ve worked up an appetite for lunch, take a scenic drive toward Seagrove and grab a burger at Cagle’s Diner.
Q: Share a unique place to stay in the area. Why would you recommend these accommodations?
A: For a unique overnight stay, Tanglewood Farm in Southern Pines offers short-term rentals in a peaceful farm setting. Say hello to the horses and chickens before settling into your private accommodations, and make your stay even sweeter with fresh eggs delivered in the morning or homemade pastries and quiche prepared by owner Lindsay O’Reilly. If you prefer a more traditional stay, Moore County also offers a variety of hotels and lodging options to make a comfortable home base for your visit.
Q: Other overlooked and under-visited locations in the area to see while in town?
A: Beyond the nearly 40 golf courses within a 15-mile radius, the Sandhills is filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Explore the trails at Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve and see the world’s oldest known living longleaf pine, then stop by the Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, home to the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame. In Vass, treat yourself to French-inspired baked goods at The Nectary, a Petite Patisserie. It’s only open Fridays and Saturdays, so arrive early—the line is often down the street!
Q: What is your ‘can’t miss experience’ in the area?
A: Definitely the holiday season! If you’ve been dreaming of experiencing your very own Hallmark holiday movie moment, the charming small towns of Moore County are just the place! From twinkling tree lightings and festive parades to welcoming local shops and cozy restaurants, you’ll find all the ingredients for an authentic small-town holiday experience filled with warmth, tradition, and plenty of seasonal magic. Be sure to check out Merrier in Moore for all the details and to plan your trip.
Insider Tip:
Plan your visit for Wednesday through Sunday to make the most of all the Sandhills has to offer, from local attractions and dining to shopping and outdoor adventures. Be sure to check our events calendar for festivals, live entertainment, seasonal celebrations, and other fun happenings throughout the year.