Awendaw Passage of the Palmetto Trail (Francis Marion National Forest): The Palmetto Trail, 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. Before hitting the trail, grab a picnic lunch at Sewee Outpost. These folks mix up some serious homemade grub.
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.
