[EXPIRED] September and October at Dismal Swamp State Park, South Mills, NC, AICW Alternate Route
Good afternoon!
Below are the programs for the next two months. We are having another sunset paddle on the first day of fall since the summer event was so well received. Sunday Wagon Rides resume for the fall starting on September 24th, and of course Dismal Day is coming on October 28th!
Fall Paddle, Boat Launch
Sun, 09/03/2017 – 1:00pm
Join the ranger for a leisurely paddle along the historic Dismal Swamp Canal. Everything you need—boat, paddle, PFD, and basic instruction—will be provided. Paddlers of all ages and abilities are welcome. Trip is limited to 8 boats, so YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER.
Grandparents’ Day Celebration, Visitor Center
Sun, 09/10/2017 – 2:00pm
Join the ranger for a guided storywalk around the Boardwalk to celebrate Grandparents’ Day!
Beginner Bike Ride, Visitor Center
Sat, 09/16/2017 – 11:00am
Join Ranger Katie for an easy, leisurely-paced bike ride to the South Martha Washington water control structures. This ride will be approximately 6 miles on fairly flat ground and an excellent way to prep for Ranger’s Joe’s more challenging ride to come later in the fall!
Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, snacks if you want them, and bug spray (just in case).
First Day of Fall Float (Sunset Paddle), Boat Launch
Fri, 09/22/2017 – 7:00pm
This event will be a special after-hours paddle trip to celebrate the start of cooler weather! We’ll watch the sun set over the historic Dismal Swamp Canal. Everything you need—boat, paddle, PFD, and basic instruction—will be provided. YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER. Hurry, this event will likely fill up fast!
If you have your own kayak, we recommend bringing it, as park boats are limited in number!
Wagon Rides, Visitor Center
Every Sun, 09/24/2017 through Sun 11/19/2017 – 11:00am and 2:00pm
Hop aboard the Dismal Swamp Express, an open-air wagon, for a 2-mile round trip, narrated ride along Canal Road. See the park’s liquor still and lighter boat replicas and maybe even some interesting birds or other wildlife! The ride lasts 45 minutes to an hour and is filled on a first come, first served basis. If the weather is questionable or you have a large group, please call the office at
252-771-6593 in advance. Insect repellent is recommended. Bring snacks and water if you want them.
Hike NC! Fall Hike, Visitor Center
Sat, 10/07/2017 – 10:00am
Join the Park Ranger on The Dismal Swamp Express that will take hikers to the trailhead of S. Martha Washington where we will unload off the wagon and hike 1 mile to the end of our S. Martha Washington Trail, and back. We will stop to observe wildlife, enjoy the fall foliage, and check out the water control structures used to regulate water levels within the swamp. Come and witness the beauty of the Dismal Swamp in the fall!
Fall Color Hike, Visitor Center
Saturday, October 21, 2017 – 11:00am
Ever wondered how and why leaves change color in the fall? Learn the answer at this indoor/outdoor talk and hike. Make some fall-inspired art to take home with you!
Dismal Day and 5K Family Fun Run
Sat, 10/28/2017 – 8:30am (Run), 10:00am – 2:00pm (main event)
Join us for our 5th annual Dismal Day! The first 100 Fun Run/Walk participants to sign get a free t-shirt! Runners/walkers can check in as early as 8:30 am, and the run starts at 9:30 am. Then stay for the festival events from 10 am-2 pm including craft vendors, food, live music, cultural exhibits, bounce house, chalk art contest, pontoon boat rides on the historic Dismal Swamp Canal, wagon rides, face painting, scavenger hunt, and much more!
*The park is also seeking volunteers to help with this event! Call
252-771-6593 for more information.*
See you at the park!
Be the first to comment!