Swamp Fox Passage of the Palmetto Trail (Francis Marion National Forest): Revolutionary War General Francis Marion earned his “Swamp Fox” nickname by attacking British soldiers and then retreating into the wetlands and coastal pine forests. Mountain bikers can follow in his footsteps today, with the aid of raised railbeds and footbridges through the swampier segments of this 47-mile trail. Those seeking an overnight trip have five primitive campsites along the route to choose from. The Wadboo Swamp section at the trail’s western end can be saturated after rain, so inquire at the Hell Hole Outdoor Center in St. Stephen for conditions.
Directions from Charleston: Take Hwy 17 N to Awendaw to the trail’s eastern end. To start at Wadboo Swamp/ west end, take exit 199B (Hwy 17A) off I-26 to Moncks Corner. Pass through town and bear left on Hwy 52. Continue 3.6 miles to Canal Recreation Area.
