NC - Alligator River NWR

Wednesday,  September 21, 2016

Day two of exploring the Outer Banks of North Carolina and yet another day of experiencing Tropical Storm Julia. Again, as we are having breakfast at the hotel, we are disappointed that the storm is lingering over the northern reaches of the OBX. So we decide to explore Roanoke Island in the morning, have lunch there, then travel down to Hatteras Island Light in the afternoon. With the choppy waters of the channel, we refrain from taking the 45-minute ferry over to Ocracoke Island to see the light and visitor center. We will save that for another trip. We proceed to Fort Raleigh NHS and are the sole visitors of the park as it opened just 30 minutes prior. The remnants of TS Julia upon us, we don't linger and proceeded up the road to the US Fish and Wildlife Services Visitor Center.

While not part of an actual Wildlife Refuge, this center was a long-time dream for the US Fish and Wildlife Service and many refuge and wildlife supporters on the Outer Banks and in eastern North Carolina. It represents eleven national wildlife refuges and one national fish hatchery, offering an invitation to visit them all. There are two Blue Goose passport stamps here, Alligator River, which is located just across the adjacent bridge and Pea Island, below the bridge to Hatteras. Being in the midst of a tropical storm, we decided to not go to Pea Island, although by the time we drove past to go to Cape Hatteras, the sun was out and people were abound.

There is a wide array of exhibits for all ages, including a restored pattial aircraft (pictured). Amazingly, this operation is totally operated by volunteers that make up the Coastal Refuges Wildlife Society as there is minimal support from the federal government. There are trails outside of the center center itself, ranging in length from 1/8 mile to almost .75 mile in length.

If You Go:

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1984 and located on the mainland of eastern North Carolina, contains approximately 152,000 acres. The refuge was established to protect and manage unique forested wetland communities and associated wildlife species. Long ago, the area that now comprises Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge was considered by most people to be a vast wasteland. Visitors to the Outer Banks from the west made special effort to complete their journeys before dark, lest they risk a vehicle breakdown in "noman's land." Frightening stories of bears, snakes, and other creatures coupled with the mile after uninhabited mile on both Highways 64 and 264 made the casual traveler cautious, if not suspicious, of being stranded there. 

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is open to public use year-round. Though remote and inaccessible, the refuge offers a challenge to the adventurous outdoor person. Birders, photographers, and lovers-of-the-outdoors find the refuge intriguing, but somewhat  difficult in which to maneuver. Many roadways are open to the public for walking or driving. Caution should be used on refuge roads, as they may be impassable during wet weather. 

Creef Cut Wildlife Trail and Fishing Area is fully handicapped accessible. This half-mile, paved trail leads to a 50-foot boardwalk with an observation platform that overlooks Creef Moist Soil Unit and a 250-foot boardwalk over a freshwater marsh. Look for waterfowl during the winter months. You may also see black bear, woodpeckers, and birds of prey. At the beginning of the trail, behind the interpretive kiosk, is a handicapped accessible fishing dock. All are welcome to fish here; however, the dock is designated "handicapped priority." Fish are naturally replenished from South Lake.

Users of the Mill tail Creek Canoe/ Kayak Trails indicate that perhaps the best way to see the refuge is by water. Canoes, kayaks, or small motor boats may be launched from the south end of Buffalo City Road. Four trails, totaling 15 miles, have color-coded markers to guide visitors through remote waterways where a variety of wildlife and habitat types can be viewed.

Hunting and fishing are very popular activities on Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Hunting is allowed on most of the refuge during State seasons and in accordance with state regulations.A permit is required to hunt on the refuge. While white-tailed deer is the main species hunted, a variety of small game is also hunted, such as squirrels, rabbits, quail, and mourning doves. Fishing is also allowed on the refuge in accordance with State regulations.

Accessibility

Creef Cut Wildlife Trail and Fishing Area is fully handicapped accessible. This half-mile, paved trail leads to a 50-foot boardwalk with an observation platform that overlooks Creef Moist Soil Unit and a 250-foot boardwalk over a freshwater marsh. Look for waterfowl during the winter months. You may also see black bear, woodpeckers, and birds of prey. At the beginning of the trail, behind the interpretive kiosk, is a handicapped accessible fishing dock. All are welcome to fish here; however, the dock is designated "handicapped priority." Fish are naturally replenished from South Lake.

Sandy Ridge Wildlife Trail is also a fully handicapped accessible trail. It offers a 2,300-foot  boardwalk and an overlook to view Milltail Creek. The trail dead-ends one-half mile from its

beginning. It wanders through Atlantic white cedar stands ·and by beaver cuttings, wood duck boxes, and prothonotary warbler nesting areas. Keep your eyes peeled for rare sun dews. During the winter months, you might even hear the howl of a red wolf .