ou won’t need a treasure map for this sparkling gem of a trail. There’s a prize at every turn.

Discover crystal, enamel, gold and silver in the form of unique jewelry. Watch one craftsman shape the back of an heirloom chair and another carve the wings of a decoy. Listen to the lyrical brogue of an old time banker or the rhythmic lines sung by chanteymen working their nets long ago.

At a popular farmers market or a roadside stand, enjoy luscious fruits and vegetables still warm from the sun. Dine where the locals do for seafood so fresh you’ll feel guilty about eating it.

Quaint seaside villages, ancient live oaks, wild ponies, dazzling sunsets, sails in the wind, and nets cast out to sea from handcrafted wooden boats…this trail is made for inspiration. Remote, wild and beautiful, it will take you from lush farm country to seaside wilderness with just a touch of city in between.

Create your own adventure today and see why this part of North Carolina is called The Crystal Coast. Choose towns from the drop down list at upper right or click on the map, and make room in the trunk for the bounty.