[EXPIRED] December Programs at Dismal Swamp State Park, South Mills, NC, AICW Alternate Route
Dismal Swamp State Park is slowly getting back into full swing as they recover from massive flooding and closure due to Hurricane Matthew. The canal is still closed to navigation, but the State Park is continuing programs as weather permits.
Good afternoon!
December will feature a few fun events before the holidays. We hope to see everyone at our annual First Day Hike as well (details below).
South Mills Christmas Parade
Sat, 12/03/2016 – 11:00am
Come on out to the town of South Mills and kick off the holiday season with a parade! The park will have a float all decked out for you to enjoy in addition to all the other festive entries. This event is organized and sponsored by the South Mills Volunteer Fire Department and will take place on Main Street, NOT at the park!
Winter Treats for the Birds
Sat, 12/10/2016 – 2:00pm
Ever wondered what birds do in winter? Come find out about their unique adaptations for the cold weather. Many birds call the Swamp home in winter but aren’t found here during other times of the year, so this is a great chance to see some birds as well! We’ll make some feeders out of common recyclables and natural supplies. You can take your feeders home or hang them at the park. All ages welcome. This activity will be primarily indoors.
Winter Solstice Night Hike
Wed, 12/21/2016 – 5:30pm @ Horseshoe Road Access
Celebrate the shortest day of the year with an after-hours hike! The Swamp is a completely different place after dark, but it is fascinating. We may hear or see nocturnal animals, such as bobcats, flying squirrels, or owls. Winter evenings are also ideal for searching for salamanders. The hike will be between 1-2 miles on flat, easy terrain. DO wear warm layers and sturdy walking shoes. Bring water and snacks if you like–insect repellent is suggested if temperatures above the mid-50s are forecast. DON’T bring headlamps or flashlights–special lighting will be provided.
**This hike has limited spots available, so you must pre-register by calling the office!**
First Day Hike 2017 at Dismal Swamp State Park!
Sun, 01/01/2017 – 1:00pm
Join us for a First Day Hike! In 2017, First Day Hikes will be held in all 50 states–be a part of something big! Bring your entire family and relieve some cabin fever or burn off some holiday calories. If you haven’t begun the 100 Mile Challenge yet, this hike is the perfect opportunity to do so. Whether this marks your first or sixth First Day Hike in the Dismal Swamp, we hope that you will join us for this traditional walk.
This will be an easy hike appropriate for all ages. Strollers and leashed pets are welcome. Wear sturdy walking shoes, and bring your own snacks if you want them. We’ll hike the Supplejack Trail, which passes the remains of old, destroyed liquor stills from the Swamp’s past. The hike will be a little over a mile long, and we’ll provide the hot chocolate at the end!
~Katie
Katie Sanford, State Park Ranger
Dismal Swamp State Park
NC DNCR, Division of Parks and Recreation
2294 Hwy 17 North
South Mills, NC 27976
Office: 252-771-6593
www.ncparks.gov
katie.sanford@ncparks.gov
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