Travelers with a passion for time in the great outdoors and a heart for wildlife as well will want to be sure to add a stop at the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge to their itinerary the next time travel plans bring them to the Outer Banks. Situated on the Albemarle Peninsula in Manns Harbor, the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1984 and today, spans more than 154,000 acres of wetland habitat. The land was set aside as protected in order to preserve pocosin wetlands and the vast array of wildlife it supports. The wetlands here thrive on thick layers of peat and shrubby vegetation. The terrain also hosts marsh and swamp forests as well. The combination of ecosystems makes this wildlife refuge a prime place for visitors to view everything from river otter and wintering waterfowl to black bears and endangered red wolf populations too. Fascinating plant species to observe across the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge include bald cypress, shrubs, wildflowers, and Atlantic white cedar, to name a few of many.
What to Enjoy at the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
When you venture directly to the refuge wetlands, there are ample opportunities to get out and explore nature at its best. A trip to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge can easily include time on the scenic hiking trails or the wildlife trails as well. Many visitors enjoy checking out the on-site observation platforms as well as the fishing areas when casting a line is just your style. The Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is also a great place to enjoy a day of kayaking and canoeing if you’re the type that loves to get out on the water and explore. In total, the refuge hosts more than 15 miles of color-coded paddling trails to check out.
If you’re looking for a bit more insight into the landscape, the refuge offers guided interpretive programs and tours upon request. These are hosted in open-air trams giving guests opportunities to learn more about the refuge as well as the wildlife that call it home alongside a knowledgeable and friendly guide. Wildlife and landscape photographers will find the photographic opportunities across this inviting refuge absolutely unsurpassed. Beyond the refuge, guests have options to visit the National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center on Roanoke Island which hosts state-of-the-art exhibits that are free to the public to enjoy.
Book Your Getaway to the Outer Banks Today
No matter when your travel plans bring you to the Outer Banks, the team at Shoreline OBX has the vacation rental you need to top it all off in luxury and style. Reach out to learn more!
