This is a pitiful excuse for a nature preserve. It’s a paved sidewalk sandwiched in between high density neighborhoods and busy Carolina Beach Road. Most of the area has been clearcut, bulldozed, paved over and developed to include playgrounds, pavilions, a large parking lot, bathrooms and a dog park all without shade. A nature preserve it definitely is not!

November 17th is an important day for me. Thats national Go Take a Hike Day. This year, I headed to Hanover Pines for a hike. Since I have moved from the mountains to the beach, this years hike would be different. However, it would still be a great hike. Hanover Pines is part of the parks and rec of New Hanover county. The park offers up 42.5 acres to enjoy. This is a passive county park which means it's use is more of an unstructured informal way. It is more of a nature park rather than a competitive park. It was opened on March 28th, 2004. It sits just off off of Carolina Beach Road. There is a large picnic shelter, a 1.25 walking trail, dog park, playground, and restrooms. The picnic shelter is free, but on a first come bases. When we were looking for a place to hold a wedding this fall, one of the parks employees suggested this place. It is much larger than the one we are going with. But the one we are using is only $40 and it is reserved for us. The hiking trail is paved and smooth. Making it very accessible park. It really is a beautiful park, especially since you are just right of the main road. The playground area is incredible. The dog park has a section for large and small dogs. There is plenty of free parking. I pass by the park just about every day and it is always packed. For a great place to get out and touch some grass, stop in at Hanover Pines.