5.0
(2)
8
riders
Fort Fisher – Swamp loop from Carolina Beach
03:14
61.4km
80m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The route includes a crossing by ferry. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 21, 2026
This route includes a ferry crossing
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 6.02 km for 71 m
After 6.17 km for 71 m
After 50.1 km for 59 m
After 50.9 km for 59 m
After 54.2 km for 112 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
6.13 km
Beach
Beach
10.5 km
Fort Fisher
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
13.1 km
Fort Fisher South Port Ferry Terminal
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
27.5 km
Swamp
Highlight • Forest
50.5 km
Fort Fisher Beach and Cannon Park
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
54.2 km
Kure Beach Pier
Highlight • Bridge
61.4 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
18.6 km
13.7 km
13.1 km
8.79 km
5.86 km
1.02 km
367 m
Surfaces
38.9 km
13.6 km
8.31 km
555 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Sunday 5 July
31°C
26°C
35 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a relaxed coastal ride that blends history with natural beauty, the Fort Fisher – Swamp loop from Carolina Beach is a moderate touring cycling route covering 38.1 miles (61.4 km) with a gentle 275 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 14 minutes. It's an excellent choice for cyclists seeking an accessible, scenic day out without strenuous climbs, offering a good balance for those wondering about the Fort Fisher Swamp loop cycling difficulty level and how long it takes.
What to expect on Fort Fisher – Swamp loop from Carolina Beach
Expect a journey that largely sticks to flat, paved paths and greenways, making for an easy ride. You'll cycle past the historic Fort Fisher State Historic Site and through the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, with sea breezes accompanying much of your ride. While the route is primarily paved, you'll find diverse coastal scenery, from Atlantic Ocean views to salt marshes and maritime forests. The Basin Trail, accessible from the bike paths, offers a chance to explore marsh habitats and reach an observation deck overlooking the Cape Fear River and Zeke's Island, though its natural surfaces and soft sand might be less ideal for road bikes. This route is perfect for touring cyclists who appreciate a leisurely pace and rich natural and historical surroundings.
Planning your visit
Parking for the Fort Fisher cycling trail near Carolina Beach is readily available, with free access for cyclists and pedestrians. You'll find amenities like restrooms, shower rinse stations, and shaded picnic areas near the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area office. The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is also nearby and accessible via a bike trail, making it a great stop. This route is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for cycling along the coast.
Trail details
- Distance: 38.1 miles (61.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 275 feet (84 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 14 minutes
Comments
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