Basics
- Length:
- 127 miles (204 km)
- Time:
- 3 hours
Description
The Pamlico Scenic Byway centers around the river and sound with the same name. Pamlico was the name of an Indian tribe who once lived in this area. The river, first explored in 1584, extends for33 miles from Washington to the sound. The Pamlico Sound is 80miles long and 15 to 30 miles wide. It covers more than 1,800square miles with a maximum depth of 21 feet.
Towns with colonial history dot the route and offer stories for curious visitors. The unique architecture of old buildings is available to the watchful eye. A rural way of life along the coast and swamplands is preserved along this byway.
Scenes of waterways, rivers, and shoreline provide a variety of views. Just past the town of Scranton travelers enjoy an unusual stretch of road where drainage canals and trees on either side form a unique and protective seven-mile tunnel with views of vast fields and tree farms on either side.
Points of Interest
Points of Interest Along The Way
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge (NC)
Opportunities for recreation in a natural setting abound at the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. This unique area is full of rare and not-so-rare wildlife and birds. Visitors will be able to explore the swampy area and all of its intriguing characteristics. Trails throughout the refuge invite visitors to explore or to try hunting or fishing. Although trails are available, the refuge is still very much a wilderness that can be difficult to navigate.
Directions
Along US Highway 264
Goose Creek State Park (NC)
The North Carolina outdoors are just a little bit different than other places in the country. The forests are peaceful and Spanish Moss hangs from the oak trees. From the time of colonialism, the area that is now Goose Creek State Park was given over to farming,logging, and the railroad, but now, only remnant of these past activities will be notices. The land of Goose Creek has returned to the forest for the appreciation and enjoyment of residents and travelers alike.
Directions
2190 Camp Leach Road, Washington, NC
Historic Bath (NC)
Wander around the historic town of Bath and learn about the history of some of the nation's earliest colonists. The oldest church in North Carolina, St. Thomas Church, was built there in1734. The history of Bath tells stories of epidemics, trade and commerce, Indian warfare, and the pirate Blackbeard.
Directions
Off of NC 92
Lake Mattamuskeet (NC)
The name for Lake Mattamuskeet comes from an Indian word for"shallow lake" or "moving swamp." Only 5 feet deep, the lake is freshwater. Residents once attempted to drain the lake for farming purposes, but the lake is now preserved as a wildlife refuge.Visitors can enjoy a visit to this now serene lake.
Directions
Off of US Highway 264
Ocracoke Island Lighthouse (NC)
Built in 1823, this lighthouse is still in use today.
Directions
Cross the Toll Ferry from Swan Quarter to get to Oracoke Island.
