Home to a variety of birds and unique wildlife, the Elizabeth City, North Carolina area is bursting with outdoor activities to enjoy the season! Check out these trails unique to the Elizabeth City area and admire some of the surrounding wildlife in their natural habitats:
College of the Albemarle Fenwick-Hollowell Wetlands Trail
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Located within the College of the Albemarle, the Fenwick-Hollowell Wetlands Trail is a 1/2-mile, raised boardwalk above the Pasquotank River that takes you through a wetland area with uprooted trees and thick vegetation.
Its gazebo is a great place to see Green Heron and other wading birds on the water’s edge. In fact, the whole area is prime bird-watching territory, so be on the lookout for cardinals, flycatchers, vireos, and other songbirds, too!
Along with the wildlife, you’ll see beautiful, bright wildflowers and cypress trees draped with Spanish moss typically habited by various creatures.
In the historic Dismal Swamp Canal a 300-foot boardwalk winds into this lush swamp forest, giving you an up close and personal view of a wide variety of wildlife such as frogs, turtles, snakes, birds, and even the occasional bear or bobcat.
There is also 16.7 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails where black bear, herons, and ducks are frequently seen, and you might even encounter a bald eagle. Further observe wildlife and birds from the water along the Dismal Swamp Canal in a canoe or kayak! Be sure to check out the Dismal Swamp Trail Map to plan your visit!
Walking in the Merchants Millpond State Park, you’ll discover a magical landscape by massive bald cypress trees, beech groves, Spanish moss and exotic wildlife.To be fully immersed in the serene, untouched habitat, try renting a canoe to paddle the large pond or camp in the park.
The pond is surrounded by picnic grounds, nine miles of hiking trails and visitor center exhibits - be sure to check out the map for more details. It’s full of wildlife such as snakes, turtles,birds, beavers, and even alligators that are frequently spotted sunning themselves!
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The 16,000-acre Lake Phelps and its surrounding landscape make up the Pettigrew State Park. As you hike along trails that wind past majestic old-growth forests, including bay trees, sweetgum, pawpaw, and persimmon, a variety of wildlife can be viewed, such as Ospreys, a variety of species of owls, hawks and if you’re lucky – a bald eagle!
While there, enjoy the clear water of Lake Phelps, which is believed to be more than 38,000 years old! Not fed by streams, the lake depends upon rainfall, which makes for clean water with great quality.
Be sure to check out the Native American dugout canoe that was discovered sunken in Lake Phelps. It is huge at 36 feet long!
Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
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The Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is located six miles south of Columbia, NC, and is a fantastic location for wildlife viewing. Together with an interpretive boardwalk along the Scuppernong River, there is an observation platform for optimal viewing of Pungo Lake.
Be sure to take a walk along the Duck Pen Trail to catch a glimpse of waterfowl and migratory birds on the lake.
Whether its canoeing through the old-growth forests of Pettigrew State Park or camping amongst the habitats of the historical Dismal Swamp State Park, you’re sure to find optimal birding and wildlife viewing in Elizabeth City.
For more things to do in Elizabeth City check out our blog and be sure to share your adventures with us on social media using #VisitECity!
Visitors and residents of Elizabeth City don’t have to travel beyond the corner of West Colonial Avenue and North Water Street to see one of these nostalgic murals. On the side of the historic McMullan Building, known locally as the ‘Old City Cut Rate Building,’ (117 North Water Street), is a Coca-Cola ghost sign. ... READ MORE
Since its founding in 1794, Elizabeth City has been a city teeming with culture, with history alive through its many remarkable structures. It’s also known as the “Harbor of Hospitality”, and its port has seen many curious items pass through. We encourage you to explore the antiques and architecture of Elizabeth City, North Carolina.... READ MORE
The “Harbor of Hospitality” is set on the beautiful Elizabeth City waterfront and the Pasquotank River. At Mariners’ Wharf you can choose from 14 boat slips with free 48-hour docking! When you tie up at Mariners’ Wharf, you may find that the locals are quite helpful, most share a smile and lend a hand. The visitors center also throws impromptu Rose Buddies parties.... READ MORE
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