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ForestMatters, LLC

Brice Creek Trail

Croatan National Forest, North Carolina · 3 min read

Distance
4.5 mi
Elevation Gain
30 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
October through May
Est. Time
2-3 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
2 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Brice Creek: a blackwater cypress creek with tannin-stained water characteristic of coastal plain streams
  • Bottomland hardwood and baldcypress with Spanish moss and coastal plain understory
  • Best single-day wildlife walk in Croatan National Forest
  • Wood ducks, herons, and river otters commonly observed along the creek
  • Popular with paddlers and hikers sharing the same creek corridor
riverwildlifeold growth

Overview

Brice Creek Trail follows a blackwater coastal plain creek through bottomland hardwood and baldcypress forest in Croatan National Forest. The 4.5-mile out-and-back is the most popular day hike in the forest and the best single route for combining wildlife viewing, creek scenery, and an accessible distance.

The creek's dark, tannin-stained water reflects the cypress and hardwood canopy, creating the atmospheric scenery characteristic of North Carolina's coastal plain forests. Wood ducks, great blue herons, and river otters are regular sightings along the trail. No permit required.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.25: Creek corridor. The trail follows the north bank of Brice Creek westward from the trailhead, staying within sight and sound of the creek throughout. The first mile passes through the most mature baldcypress section, where large cypress trees with buttressed bases stand in and along the creek margin. Spanish moss drapes the canopy in the denser stretches.

The trail is flat throughout, with the forest floor staying close to the creek level. In wet seasons, some sections may be muddy or have standing water. This is worth planning for with appropriate footwear.

Turnaround at mile 2.25 at a natural opening where the creek bends and the forest margin widens.

When to Hike

October through April: Best season for wildlife, reduced insects, and the most pleasant temperatures.

March and April: Spring brings nesting wood ducks, wood warbler migration, and the most active wildlife period.

Winter: Quiet and clear, with good visibility for birds in the winter-bare deciduous sections.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water. Creek water is nearby but requires treatment. Waterproof footwear is worthwhile after rain. Binoculars for creek wildlife. Bug spray from May through September.

Trailhead Access

Off US-70 west of New Bern and north of the main Croatan National Forest boundary. From New Bern, take US-70 west about 10 miles and follow USFS signs toward Brice Creek.

Nearby

The Pine Cliff Recreation Trail is another accessible option from the Neuse River recreation area. The Neusiok Trail: Northern Section is the longer, more demanding option from the Pinecliff trailhead. See the full Croatan National Forest guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles along the creek.

Before any outing in East Texas national forest terrain, review the checking conditions guide for current information on trail conditions, fire restrictions, and wildlife alerts from official USFS sources.

The America the Beautiful pass covers day-use fees at developed recreation areas throughout the national forest system. Veterans and active military have additional access options covered in the veteran benefits guide.

Trailhead Parking

Brice Creek Trailhead off US-70 west of New Bern. Paved pullout. No fee. No facilities at trailhead.

← Back to Croatan National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Brice Creek distinctive?
Brice Creek is a classic coastal plain blackwater stream: shallow, dark with dissolved tannins from decaying organic matter, flanked by baldcypress and tupelo, and characteristic of the North Carolina coastal plain drainage. The dark water is not pollution but rather a natural result of the organic-rich soils. The creek is popular with kayakers and canoeists as well as hikers, and the shared trail-paddling corridor creates a pleasant, low-traffic outdoor environment.
Is Brice Creek good for fishing?
Yes. Brice Creek supports largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and redear sunfish. The shaded cypress corridor and woody debris create good fish habitat. A valid North Carolina fishing license is required (as of 2026). The creek is small and best suited to light tackle.
Can I kayak or canoe on Brice Creek?
Yes. Brice Creek is one of the most popular paddling destinations in Croatan National Forest. Launch points are available at the trailhead area and at several access points along the creek. Paddling the creek alongside the trail creates a good combined hiking-paddling outing. Check with the USFS New Bern Ranger District for current water levels and access points.