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The Military Cutoff Trail is a paved, north-south route paralleling its namesake roadway on the east end of Wilmington. A wide grassy median separates the trail from the busy roadway. The south end of the trail has an urban feel and offers access to many restaurants, shops, and other businesses, while its northern end is more residential.
On the trail’s southern end, it connects to a segment of the Gary Shell Cross-City Trail, a developing pathway that connects to the University of North Carolina and many of the city’s premier parks.
In the autumn of 2014 I began at the North end of " Military Cutoff Trail". There are plenty of parking options at various businesses.
The surface is smooth, wide concrete suitable for Road, hybrid or even mountain bikes.
I met a few riders; all smiled and waved, as did some joggers.
There is a 6' swath of well-tended grass separating the trail from the roadway. Fortuitously, it was grass mowing day; ahh, nothing like the sweet aroma of fresh-cut grass!
As its only 2 miles from the 'trailhead', I did not stop at the endpoint; opted to turn on Hwy. 74 [Eastwood Rd.]. This is the trailhead of the "Gary Shell Cross-City Trail". I pedaled abt. 2 miles, then the trail takes an abrupt left. Don't miss it; its an average size sign. The transition from the urban road to a wooded, secluded setting is surreal! The sounds of traffic gives way to a silent parade of Live Oak trees flanking both sides of the asphalt trail. Evidently, few know of this 'dog leg' as it winds its way thru the trees; not a soul did I meet. An image of Hobbiton flashed thru my mind....
The TrailLink map says that Summer Rest Road is the Endpoint. However, I turned right on Summer Rest Rd. and continued on abt. a 1/2 mile to Hwy. 74 [Wrightsville Ave].
Wrightsville Ave. is the Trailhead of the "River to the Sea Bikeway" trail. I turned left and followed the trail to the bridge that spans the Intracoastal Waterway. Just had to stop and watch the boats and birds for awhile. Back on the bike for 2 miles and I was walking the sands next to Johnny Mercer's Pier. After a leisurely walk in the surf I was ready to make the return trip.[Caution; this last section of the "River to Sea Bikeway" is not recommended for Recreational cyclists. You must know how to ride in traffic].
So, back on "River to Sea Bikeway" to connect with "Gary Shell Cross-City Trail" which connects to my trailhead on "Military Cutoff Trail".
Upon reaching the south-end of "Military Cutoff Trail", I was hungry. I stopped at Wild Wings Café and rewarded myself with zesty, delicious wings and a Red Oak Lager and several glasses of water, as my water bottle was empty at this point. They let me bring my bike inside for security, treated me like family, and even filled up my water bottle! Great place.
Back to the bike and pedaled to the Trailhead at the North end of the trail. Three 'epic' trails in one day!
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