EI Bike Path

 

The Emerald Path extends approximately 11 miles from the Indian Beach town limits all the way to The Point at Bogue Inlet. The path winds through grassy areas along Coast Guard Road to Loon Drive, snakes through wooded areas from Loon Drive to the Welcome Center, meanders through the downtown district and passes the Municipal Complex at Black Skimmer Drive and ends at the eastern town limits.  The bike path provides an alternative means of transportation to key destinations in Town, as well as provides an additional recreational opportunity in Emerald Isle.  The path was constructed with NCDOT Enhancement assistance.

In April 2022, the path was dedicated to Alesia F. Sanderson, longtime Emerald Isle Parks and Recreation Director, upon her retirement. 

Guidelines

Motorized Apparatuses are Strictly Prohibited!

General Guidelines

  • EVERYONE: KEEP TO THE RIGHT except to pass.
  • Look carefully before entering or crossing the bikeway.
  • Pass on the left, only when safe. Give an audible warning before passing another path user.
  • Make a complete stop at all intersections.
  • When stopping for breaks or equipment failure, move off the pavement to allow other bikeway users to pass.
  • Yield to emergency and maintenance vehicles.
  • Electric vehicles, including electric bicycles, are not permitted on the path. 

Bicycling

  • Helmets are recommended for all cyclists and required by state law for children under 16.
  • Stop your bicycle, if necessary, to yield or to prevent an accident. Bicyclists must yield to pedestrians.
  • Bicyclists may ride two-abreast only when safe (when the bikeway is not busy). Never ride three-or-more-abreast. Bicycle front and rear lights required when riding at night.
  • Ride at a safe speed. When the path is crowded, PLEASE slow down.

Walking / Running

  • Keep to the right when walking or running on the path.
  • Look before entering the bikeway or changing direction.
  • Don’t walk or run more than two abreast.

In-Line Skating

  • Helmets are required, kneepads, and wrist guards are advised.
  • Keep to the right so that other users may pass safely.
  • Skate single-file.
  • Skate at a safe speed, and be prepared to stop suddenly.

Common Courtesy

  • Do not litter or trespass on private property.
  • Keep your dog on a leash. Pick up after your dog.
  • Respect other path users. Share the path.