For 26 miles, the Palmetto Trail skirts the banks of Lake Moultrie following a wide dike that’s often immediately along the shore. The packed dirt trail is flat which allows for any great family ride for all levels of riders. The final 3 miles at the trail’s western end passes through a pine forest, including a boardwalk and bridge over a creek. Primitive campsites with hand-operated water pumps are near the Diversion Canal trailhead and two spots in or near the Sandy Beach Wildlife Management Area. There is another primitive campsite 1.8 miles after leaving the Bonneau Beach community at General Moultrie Rd.
Want to make your ride easier and more fun? Consider an electric bike. Asheville-based M2S Bikes offers a wide range of electric bikes that can help you climb hills faster and easier while still getting a great workout.
Directions from Charleston: To start at the eastern trailhead, take exit 199B (Hwy 17A) off I-26 W to Moncks Corner. Pass through town and bear left onto Hwy 52. Continue 3.6 miles to Canal Recreation Area. To reach the western end, continue 13 more miles past the eastern trailhead on Hwy 52 and turn left on Hwy 45. In 10 miles, the trail crosses at the bridge over the Diverson Canal between Lakes Marion and Moultrie.
Lake Moultrie/Palmetto Trail Info & Maps: Palmetto Conservation Foundation: 803-771-0870 or Santee Cooper Land Division 843- 761-8000 / http://www.palmettoconservation.org/
