Duck is a “Pedestrian First” Community
Whether you’re strolling along the boardwalk, shopping or dining in the village, or enjoying an event at the Town Park, the Town of Duck offers wonderful opportunities for pedestrians. No other mode of travel offers such a convenient and stress free way to experience the activity of Duck Village, connect with local neighborhoods, and enjoy the natural beauty of the town’s beach, sound, and coastal landscapes.
The Town of Duck has a long history of pedestrian travel, focused around its compact village center. When the shared use path was built to the north and south of Duck Village, it became obvious there was a pent-up demand for pedestrian facilities. Through the years, the use of this path by bicyclists and pedestrians has continued to increase and the Town is facing challenges to keep up with the demand.
General Safety Tips
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you are walking, running, cycling, or scooting through the Town of Duck we want to share some tips to help keep you safe.
- Keep an ear out. Headphones and earbuds can be dangerous. They inhibit your ability to hear sirens or other approaching vehicles and bikes.
- State law requires the use of marked crosswalks when provided.
- Always walk on the sidewalk or Duck Trail. Try to avoid walking on NC12. If no sidewalk or walkway is available, walk on the left side facing traffic.
- Take a second look. Look in all directions before crossing an intersection or road.
- Make eye contact with stopped cars before crossing. Never assume a driver sees you.
- Be Bright at Night. Wear bright clothing and carry a flashlight with you when walking at night. Have a light on the front and back of your bike.
- Stay off devices while walking. Pay attention to your surroundings.
Showing Intent at a Crosswalk
- Place foot on the white line
- Raise your hand to alert motorists
- Cross the street once the motorist has stopped
Always make eye contact to ensure that it is safe to cross. Never assume that a driver sees you.
If possible, wait for a large group to cross the street. This will lessen the number of times that traffic is stopped and, in turn, help with vehicle traffic flow.
Bicycle Safety
Children under the age of 16 are required by law to wear a helmet when riding a bike.
In North Carolina, bicycles are considered vehicles and, therefore, must obey the same traffic laws as other drivers; including stop signs and traffic signals. When riding through town, be conscious of pedestrians preparing to cross the road.
Be a courteous cyclist. While you are entitled to use the full lane, riding on the right side will help with traffic flow. If riding on the Duck Trail, you should always pass on the left and alert those people being passed.
Be a “Roll Model”
Fitting your bike helmet
Using the Duck Trail and Sidewalks
The Duck Trail is a six-mile long, multi-use path. The trail is primarily located on the east side of Duck Road (ocean side). In 2018, the Town of Duck completed the installation of sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes on the east and west side of Duck Road through the village commercial area. This area is located between Urban Cottage (1168 Duck Rd) and Barrier Island Station
Sidewalks are for pedestrian traffic only. Non-motorized vehicles may operate on the Duck Trail.
Prohibited on the Duck Trail and sidewalks:
- E-bikes
- E-scooters
- Golf carts
- Low speed vehicles
- Mopeds
- Segways
- Any other vehicle that has a motor
Pedestrians, bicyclists, and in-line skaters share the Duck Trail. Motorized vehicles such as e-bikes, e-scooter, golf carts, mopeds and Segways are prohibited on the sidewalk and Duck Trail.