Scuppernong River Interpretive Boardwalk

Let your pupper get close to nature on the Scuppernong River Interpretive Boardwalk! Located in the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, this pleasant, 0.75-mile loop trail is regarded by many as one of the area's treasures.

Beginning behind the Walter B. Jones Sr. Center for the Sounds and the Tyrrell County Visitor Center, the boardwalk travels along the Scuppernong River and then leads into a cypress swamp. Interpretive signs dot the way to educate visitors about the unique features of the area. Once you enter the cypress swamp, you and Fido will be greeted by the tweets of various songbirds. This is also the part where the boardwalk splits, but try not to overthink it, as either way will take you and your pooch to the observation deck. In addition to the pawsome views, you will get to see different waterfowl and waders hanging out by the river's edge.

The trail connects to downtown Columbia, so you and Fido can walk over and check it out. Or you could explore the other parts of the refuge, whose 110, 106 acres provide multiple opportunities for outdoor recreation and environmental education, as well as crucial habitat for a variety of wildlife. More than 300 species call Pocosin Lakes home, including the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker and red wolf. Black bears, deer, river otters, foxes, bobcats, and green tree frogs are some of the other animals that can be spotted on the refuge.

Wherever you go, keep your canine companion on a leash at all times, and bring waste bags so you can clean up after them. Don't forget to bring water, too. While the Scuppernong River Interpretive Boardwalk is short and easy, you and your pooch will still need to stay hydrated. Expect to share this pawpular trail with other users, including locals, tourists, school groups, and anglers. It's a furrific choice for experiencing the beauty of eastern North Carolina's coastal sounds!