The Dismal Swamp Canal is a man-made waterway located in Virginia and North Carolina. It was constructed in the late 18th century to facilitate trade and transportation, connecting the Chesapeake Bay to the Albemarle Sound. The canal is approximately 22 miles long and is surrounded by the lush Dismal Swamp, a unique ecosystem rich in wildlife. Today, the Dismal Swamp Canal is part of the Intracoastal Waterway and serves as a popular route for recreational boaters. It is also a designated National Historic Landmark, highlighting its historical significance and the natural beauty of the surrounding area.