July has gifted us one of the most unforgettable Trail Mommas adventures yet—a journey into the heart of North Carolina’s wild bear country, where the forests breathe mystery and the wetlands whisper stories of ancient land and thriving life.

Our crew set out to explore Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge and Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, two of the Southeast’s most biologically rich and ecologically critical habitats. These protected lands aren’t just stunning—they are vital. They safeguard endangered species, serve as migratory bird havens, and, for us this week, became the backdrop for a powerful encounter with one of nature’s most majestic mammals: the American Black Bear.

🐻 Bear Sightings That Took Our Breath Away
We were blessed with more than just a glimpse. We saw ten black bears in total—including a solo cub, a mama with her two little ones, and even a massive boar who stood tall on his hind legs before crashing back into the woods. The sight of these powerful animals moving freely in their natural space was humbling. It was the kind of moment that leaves you in awe… the kind that makes your heart beat a little louder.

🌾 The Unique Wonder of Pocosins
The word “pocosin” comes from a Native American term meaning “swamp on a hill.” These wetland ecosystems are distinctly Southern and incredibly rare—deep peat soils, dense shrub layers, and slow-draining water systems make them a haven for wildlife. And while they may look unassuming to the untrained eye, pocosins are powerhouses of biodiversity and resilience.

Alligator River Refuge, nestled near the Outer Banks, is equally enchanting. Beyond bears, it’s home to red wolves, bobcats, river otters, and a chorus of amphibians and birds. These lands are protected not just for today, but for generations to come—to ensure wild spaces remain wild and the creatures that call them home continue to thrive.

📷 Through the Lens
As an avid adventurer and wildlife photographer, these experiences fuel my creative soul. There’s something deeply fulfilling about capturing the untamed beauty of a place or locking eyes with an animal that doesn’t know how rare it is. I believe photography has the power to connect people to wildness in ways words sometimes can’t—and that’s why I keep coming back to these sacred spaces with a camera in hand and kids at my side.

🌍 Why We Adventure
These are the moments that remind us why we choose to opt outside. Why we gather as Trail Mommas. Why we teach our children to be still, to listen, to wonder. The wild places call, not just for recreation, but for reverence.

So here’s to muddy boots, wild bear sightings, and protecting the places that make moments like this possible.
We’ll be back soon—with more stories, more awe, and always more love for the land.

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“Take only photos, leave only footprints.”
📍Alligator River & Pocosin Lakes NWR | July 2025
📸 – Trail Mommas Field Notes