The 420-acre park protects the highest natural sand dune on the East Coast, 80-100ft (its height varies due to shifts in the sand) Jockey's Ridge. Its soft, forgiving sides and the winds that sweep off its top also make it one of the East's most popular hang-gliding sites. Stop in the visitor center to learn about dune formation, then climb to the top of the dune or take the 1.5mi interpretive Tracks in the Sand Trail that leads to Roanoke Sound.