Outer Banks of North Carolina

Duration: 6 days, 5 nights (Sun-Fri)
Assembly Point: Elizabeth City, NC

Tour Cost: $2,600
(includes all lodging, breakfasts and dinners, support van, van shuttle, leaders, tour maps & narratives)

The best way to explore the Outer Banks is on a bicycle. There is nothing to separate the rider from the salt air and serenity of 200 miles of barrier islands along the Atlantic Ocean. As we progress southward, rich salt marshes give way to wide, pristine beaches. But it is not just natural beauty that draws the traveler; this region is steeped in history. The first flight happened on our route and this section of the coast is known as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” laying claim to more than 600 shipwrecks.

On Day 1, we leave Elizabeth City and cross the bridge to the Outer Banks. Along the way, we will visit Kitty Hawk and the Wright Brother’s National Monument. Bask in the immense expanse of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore on Day 2. Our ride will be bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by Pamlico Sound. The trail winds through Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, boasting more than 5,000 acres of marsh and multitudes of birds.

Next up on Day 3 is a ferry ride to Orcacoke Island, where we’ll explore miles of shoreline on the tour’s layover day. Comb the beach for shells, Kayak the calm waters or stop by the town of Orcacoke to explore the shops, local lighthouse or perhaps cycle the town’s small side roads. On Day 5 we’ll cycle past cotton fields and wetlands to the tiny historic village of Bath. We will spend the evening at one of the beautifully restored B&Bs in charming Edenton, enjoying our own private farewell dinner. There is no rest for the weary. On Day 6 we take a ride through the rural countryside to Hertford and finally back to Elizabeth City where the tour ends.

Total Cycling Mileage: 245

See our website for details including daily mileage. Bicycle rentals are available.