Report from Dismal Swamp Canal, AICW Alternate Route
Our thanks to Joyce and Matthew Gauthier for sharing their time spent in the Dismal Swamp Canal which has recently re-opened to navigation. The Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center, a part of the NC State Park System, is also open and their programs are ongoing.
We traveled through the Dismal swamp 10/31-11/2. It was great.
Another great day in the Swamp. Sunrise yoga on the dock. Had parfaits with the lock master before we left this morning. Traveled with our new friends about 15 miles to the dismal swamp visitors center. Had to stop to stop two times in 15 miles to clean the duckweed out of our strainer for the engine. Crossed state lines into North Carolina. Walked the swamp trails. Looking forward to a mellow night sipping tea and enjoying the company.
Joyce and Matthew Gauthier
Comments from Cruisers (1)
Joyce,
Thanks for sharing. We have had mixed reviews on the trip. Many exclaim, the duckweed is no problem, others stated they wish they had turned around. We appreciate your sharing your experience and we are attempting to post photos regularly to allow people to discern for themselves what they should decide. On a selfish note, after being here for over 9 years, and having a year with no boats at our dock, we are so happy to see you all. I can tell you, Robert is giddy on the north end. Hope our conditions continue to improve.