Explore the Hidden Treasures on ECU’s Campus!
Ahoy, Future Pirates!
When visiting campus, be sure to stop by ECU’s Main Campus Student Center to participate in PeeDee’s Hidden Coin Challenge.
In case you haven’t heard, Pirates Aboard Admitted Student Day is sailing your way on March 29! We’re thrilled to welcome you to our beautiful campus, where you’ll experience firsthand why ECU is the perfect place to drop your anchor for the next four years.
While you’re here, we encourage you to check out ECU’s main attractions: Joyner Library, the Main Campus Student Center and our residence halls, but don’t stop there! ECU is full of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. So, grab your map and your sense of adventure to explore some of ARRRGH campus’ best-kept secrets!
PeeDee’s Hidden Coin Challenge
Feeling adventurous? We’ve got a campus challenge just for you! When you step inside the Main Campus Student Center, don’t forget to look down! Hidden in plain sight on the floor are four tiny coins, each featuring a unique version of PeeDee the Pirate. Can you find them all? Take on the challenge during Pirates Aboard and tag us at @eastcarolinauniv on social media when you do!
Walk Through ECU’s Living History on the Tree Trail
Are you like The Lorax and “speak for the trees”? Then you’ll love ECU’s Tree Trail, a 1.5-mile circular route featuring 45 different tree species across campus. Not only is it a peaceful way to explore ECU, but it’s also an interactive outdoor classroom where you can learn about the history and ecological importance of each tree through an app and printed brochure.
One of the most awe-inspiring stops on the trail is the Loblolly Pine standing between the Wright and Graham buildings. This tree is a living landmark, older than any building on ECU’s campus! It has been part of ECU’s history for over a century, appearing in some of the earliest photos and artist renderings of the university. Our Director of Grounds, John Gill describes it best:
“Any picture that I’ve seen of the university dating all the way back to the turn of the century, that tree was in it. We have a hedge around it to protect it, so you really don’t get how big it is until you actually walk in there and stand next to it.”
As you follow the trail, you’ll pass stately oaks, vibrant cherry blossoms, towering magnolias, and more, each labeled with plaques to guide your journey. Whether you take the full tour or stop by a few trees along the way, the Tree Trail offers a chance to step back in time and appreciate ECU’s commitment to environmental beauty and stewardship.
Pro tip: Use the interactive ECU Tree Trial map to learn about each tree’s history, species, and significance!
More Hidden Gems Await!
These are just a few of the hidden treasures that make ECU special. As you explore campus, keep your eyes open as you never know what unexpected gems you’ll uncover! We can’t wait to see you at Pirates Aboard on March 29. Until then—Go Pirates!