BEACH
DRIVING Off-Road Vehicle Use in Cape Hatteras National Seashore
from
U.S. Department of the Interior
National Park Service
The beaches
of Cape Hatteras National Seashore are attracting more visitors every
year. One form of recreation that is increasing in popularity is beach
driving. Driving on the dunes, however, has disastrous effects, leaving
the dunes bare to the winds and leading to eventual dune destruction.
Off-road vehicle users can help ensure that this fragile ecosystem
remains healthy and strong with attractive stretches of beach available
for beach driving by following the regulations and guidelines listed
below.
Off-Road
Driving Regulations*
Avoid Damaging
Vegetation:
Enter and
leave the beach only at designated numbered ramps.
Drive only
on that portion of the beach which lies between the foot of the
dunes and the ocean.
Do not drive
on or between the dunes, except on marked ORV routes.
Drive only
on marked ORV routes west of NC Highway 12 (soundside).
Drive Safely:
The speed
limit is 25 mph on all beaches. Proceed with due caution and have
consideration for other beach users. Seat belts are required for
all front seat occupants and recommended for rear seat passengers.
Beach pedestrians
ALWAYS have the right-of-way. Drive slowly and detour around people
lying, standing or walking on the beach. Watch for fishing lines.
Avoid overloading
your vehicle with people. Do not allow your passengers to sit on
the tailgate or rooftop, or otherwise stand or hang outside your
vehicle.
No open containers
of alcoholic beverages allowed in moving vehicles.
No public
consumption, display or possession of spirituous liquor or fortified
wine is allowed in the park.
Help to Conserve
the Beach and its Wildlife:
Be alert
for and obey signs which indicate areas closed to ORV use.
Do not drive
or walk in posted bird nesting areas.
Do not drive
or walk in posted turtle nesting areas.
Pets are required
to be on a six-foot leash when on the beach and elsewhere in the
park.
If you carry
it in, carry it OUT. Dispose of trash properly, including fish parts
and dead fish. Help keep the beach clean.
Fish caught
and not used should be returned to the water alive.
Observe Vehicle
Licensing Requirements:
All vehicles,
including ATV's, must have a current state-of-origin registration
and valid license plate.
The operator
must have a current driver's license.
* All regulations
listed above are National Park Service regulations and carry a maximum
fine of $500 and/or six (6) months imprisonment for violations.
* All regulations
listed above are National Park Service regulations and carry a maximum
fine of $500 and/or six (6) months imprisonment for violations.
Guidelines
for Beach Driving:
Check weather
forecast and tide tables before starting your trip. Ask a ranger
about current, constantly changing beach conditions.
Carry the
following equipment: shovel, tire pressure gauge, first-aid kit,
spare tire, tow rope (at least 14 feet long with a load strength
of 20,000 pounds), litter bag, fire extinguisher, flashlight, and
bumper jack (with sturdy board to support jack).
Two-wheel-drive
vehicles are not recommended for beach driving due to lack of adequate
tire traction.
Rangers are
here to assist you, but they are not permitted to pull or tow other
vehicles. Commercial towing services are limited and costly.
Lower pressure
in all tires to a recommended 20-25 pounds; the softer the sand,
the lower the pressure needed for better flotation. Reinflate tires
to normal pressure as soon as possible after leaving the beach.
Low tire pressure can affect vehicle braking and maneuverability
on paved roads.
Excessive
speed endangers you, your vehicle, and others using the beach. Experienced
beach drivers know that a slow, steady pace and correct tire pressure
are more effective than speed. If wheels start to spin, back up
in your tire tracks for several car lengths. Accelerate slowly as
you move forward. Sudden moves are your worst enemy.
Slow down
and allow additional space when passing or meeting other vehicles,
since steering on sand can be difficult.
Before driving
through water, determine in advance its depth and the firmness of
its underlying surface. Remember that salt water is highly corrosive.