The Palmetto Trail, a signature project of the Palmetto Conservation Foundation, crosses the state from the mountains to the sea with the Awendaw Passage its coastal terminus. The 7 mile Awendaw Passage passes through maritime forests of pine and palmetto and is arguably the northernmost “tropical” trail in the U.S. Bring binoculars-the broad vistas across the salt marsh are a haven for both wading shorebirds and migrating songbirds. The sandy, flat trail is appropriate for all ages and is bikeable.
Directions from Charleston: Head north on Hwy 17. 3 miles past Awendaw turn at the Buck Hall Recreation Area sign and the trailhead is at the end of the road. There is a $5 per vehicle fee to park.
Palmetto Trail Info & Maps: Palmetto Conservation Foundation : 803- 771-0870 / http://www.palmettoconservation.org/
Francis Marion National Forest Ranger Station, McClellanville: 843-887-3257 / http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/fms/
