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Paddling Through Nature: Kayaking the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge - Manns Harbor

Paddling Through Nature: Kayaking the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

Manns Harbormoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for individuals in good physical shape comfortable with paddling for multiple hours over gentle but possibly variable water conditions.

Overview

Explore the tranquil blackwater creeks and rich wildlife habitats of North Carolina’s Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge on an unforgettable guided kayak tour. Discover why this remote coastal wetland is a unique paddling destination in the Outer Banks.

Manns Harbor, North Carolina

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Kayak Tour

$60 Adult; $50 Child | 2 Hours | Hear Red Wolves Howl!

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Adventure Photos

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Kayak Tour photo 1

About This Adventure

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Kayak Tour

This refuge is home to the world’s only wild population of red wolves, which we sometimes hear on our wolf howlings. This refuge is a must see.


Rates

Adults - $60.00 Children - $50.00


Duration

2 hours


About

  • The Algonquin Indians identified this habitat as a “pocosin”, meaning “swamp on a hill”. Bald cypress loom overhead, feeding the narrow creeks with tannins giving the water a mysterious black coloration. The winding creeks lead to mirror-image lakes where alligators can be seen as they sun on the floating grass fields (slough grass) or a protruding cypress stump. This refuge is home to the world’s only wild population of red wolves, which we sometimes hear on our wolf howlings. Last year we also had sightings of river otter, bobcat, black bear, American bittern, barred owl, and colonies of egret and ibis. This refuge is a must see. Just 20 minutes from Nags Head, down old Buffalo City Road we set out on these black waters to learn of a time when loggers and moonshiners called this place home. There is little evidence of Buffalo City or the moonshine known as East Lake Dew today, but you will get a glimpse of what it must have been like in the logging and prohibition days. We conduct this tour from March through December. This tour is $60 per adult and $40 per child and lasts about 2 hours. This tour meets in the mornings and few hours before sunset at the end of Buffalo City Rd., Buffalo City, NC (Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge).

Adventure Tips

Check Water Levels Before You Go

Water levels can fluctuate seasonally, affecting paddle routes and difficulty; verify recent conditions to plan your trip effectively.

Wear Insect Repellent

Mosquitoes are common in marshy areas, especially in warmer months—apply repellent to stay comfortable.

Bring a Waterproof Bag

Protect your phone, camera, and dry clothing by stowing them in waterproof dry bags during your paddle.

Mind Wildlife Distance

Observe animals quietly and keep a respectful distance to avoid disturbing sensitive species like red wolves or nesting birds.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Red Wolf
  • Great Blue Heron

History

Designated in 1984, the refuge was established primarily to protect the endangered red wolf and critical coastal ecosystems.

Conservation

Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles and stay in designated waterways to protect the fragile wetland habitats.

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Adventure Hotspots in Manns Harbor

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Lightweight Kayaking Paddle

Essential

Essential for efficient strokes and maneuvering through winding waterways.

Moisture-Wicking Clothing

Essential

Keeps you cool and dry during warmer paddles through the refuge.

summer specific

Wide-Brim Sun Hat

Essential

Provides sun protection on exposed paddling stretches.

summer specific

Insect Repellent

Essential

Crucial for warding off mosquitoes in the wetland environment.

spring specific