Autumn makes a delightful time to hit the trails along the Carolina coast, with highs in the 60s and mid-70s, blue skies, and lots of fall foliage. Walking and biking make the best way to explore our charming communities along nature trails and walking paths.
Check out some of our favorite spots.
Seabrook Island
Seabrook Island has several nature trails that are mostly short trails and easy walks for all ages.
The most well-used trail on the Island is the Hidden Oak Nature Trail Hidden Oaks. It runs parallel to Hidden Oak Drive, winding through the woods around a lagoon before ending at Hidden Oaks Drive. Old Drake Nature Trail is the shortest of the Island's pathways, beginning at the pumping station on Old Drake Drive. The hilly Six Ladies Trail ups the ante as a more challenging Level 3 trail.
Behind the Community Center, Bobcat Dune Nature Walk leads to the boardwalk for a leisurely beachside stroll. The Lake House Trail begins just past the playground and ball courts and over the bridge, where you'll enter a lush, maritime forest.
Then there's Camp St. Christopher with its own five nature trails for guests to enjoy, all maintained in their natural state. Make a reservation one to two days in advance by calling 843-768-0429.
Kiawah Island
Bicyclists will enjoy Kiawah Island, which has more than 30 miles of flat bike paths and 10 miles of hard-packed sand for beach riding. The scenery is spectacular, no matter which direction you head. You'll see a lot of wildlife and some "Danger: Alligators" signs. Those are not just for looks, as about 450 alligators live in Kiawah Island.
Trails are spread across the Island and take riders to Night Heron Park, Mingo Point, Kiawah Beachwalker Park, Marsh Island Park, and Eagle Point. At Marsh Island Park, head to the Observation Tower for magnificent panoramic views of the marsh.
Wild Dunes Resort
On Wild Dunes Resort, the Heart Walk Trail makes a five-mile loop starts at the Links Course. You'll get the same workout as walking a game of golf or playing a game of tennis. Along the trail, discover ways to boost your heart rate at workout stations such as jumping jacks, glute kicks, and more.
More great hiking and biking paths include the short Fort Sumter Interpretative Trail, the 5.4-mile Arthur Ravenel Junior Bridge Walk near Mount Pleasant, and the West Ashley Greenway.
When you finish exploring, kick off your shoes and relax in a luxurious vacation rental.