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Outer Banks Scenic Byway: Images of America

Vincent Mitchell

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The Outer Banks Scenic Byway, designated as a National Scenic Byway in 1996, is a breathtaking 138-mile coastal highway that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable driving experience. This iconic road traverses the Outer Banks of North Carolina, a chain of barrier islands known for its pristine beaches, stunning ocean views, and rich history.

Outer Banks Scenic Byway (Images of America)

by David Nolan

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	131 pages

A Journey Through Time and Beauty

The Outer Banks Scenic Byway is more than just a scenic drive; it is a journey through time and beauty. Along the way, visitors will encounter a diverse range of landscapes, from windswept dunes and rolling sandhills to tranquil maritime forests and vibrant coastal towns.

The byway passes through several charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character. Manteo, the first permanent English settlement in the Americas, is a must-visit for history buffs. Kitty Hawk, where the Wright brothers made their historic flight in 1903, is a testament to human ingenuity. Nags Head, with its iconic Jockey's Ridge State Park, offers opportunities for adventure and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Nature's Canvas

The Outer Banks Scenic Byway is a showcase of nature's beauty. The Atlantic Ocean, with its ever-changing waves and vibrant blue hues, is a constant companion on this journey. Pristine beaches stretch for miles, inviting visitors to relax and soak up the sun or engage in water sports like swimming, surfing, and kayaking.

The byway also traverses several wildlife refuges and nature preserves, offering opportunities to observe a diverse array of flora and fauna. The Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for migratory birds, while the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles and dolphins.

A Rich Tapestry of History

The Outer Banks Scenic Byway is steeped in history, with landmarks and sites that tell the story of human habitation and exploration over centuries.

The Wright Brothers National Memorial commemorates the historic flight of the Wright brothers, while the Roanoke Island Festival Park offers a glimpse into the failed English settlement of Roanoke in the 16th century. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, one of the tallest brick lighthouses in the world, has been guiding ships through treacherous waters for centuries.

Capturing the Essence

The beauty and diversity of the Outer Banks Scenic Byway have long inspired artists and photographers. Through the lens of their cameras, they have captured the essence of this iconic road, preserving its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history for generations to come.

In the book "Outer Banks Scenic Byway: Images of America," a captivating collection of images by acclaimed photographer Bob Brinson showcases the many facets of this remarkable coastal highway. From sweeping vistas of the ocean and dunes to intimate portraits of the people who live and work along the byway, Brinson's photographs provide a vivid and evocative glimpse into the heart and soul of the Outer Banks.

Through Brinson's lens, readers will experience the beauty of sunrises and sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean, the majesty of towering sand dunes, and the charm of quaint coastal towns.

The Outer Banks Scenic Byway is a true American treasure, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable driving experience. It is a journey through time and beauty, where stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history intertwine to create a tapestry that will captivate and inspire for generations to come.

Whether you are a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of coastal landscapes, the Outer Banks Scenic Byway is a must-visit destination. So, embark on this extraordinary journey, and let the byway's beauty and history unfold before your eyes.

Outer Banks Scenic Byway (Images of America)

by David Nolan

4.3 out of 5