Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Charleston, South Carolina, United States
1. Angel Oak Trail
A scenic half-mile nature trail leading to a towering live oak tree, over 600 years old, offering serene hiking and wildlife spotting.
- Historical Tree: Oldest known tree in North America by volume.
- Wildlife Haven: Home to various bird species, squirrels, and alligators.
- Easy Accessibility: Trail is wheelchair accessible and pet-friendly.
2. Kiawah Island Beachwalker Park Trail
A 10-mile long beach trail on Kiawah Island offering stunning ocean views and shell collecting.
- Longest Public Beach: The longest stretch of public beach in the Charleston area.
- Shell Hunting Opportunities: Ideal location for finding diverse and unique shells.
- Birdwatching Paradise: Popular spot for bird watching, especially during migratory seasons.
3. Folly Beach County Park Trail
A 3-mile long trail through a coastal forest leading to the beautiful Folly Beach.
- Coastal Forest Scenery: Trail winds through maritime forests with a variety of trees and wildlife.
- Chance to see Dolphins: Opportunity to observe dolphins playing in the surf from the beach.
- Surfing and Fishing: Perfect spot for surfing, fishing, and enjoying a picnic.
4. Mountain Park Trail System
A network of trails in the James Island County Park with hills and wooded landscapes.
- Variety of Trails: Offers multiple trails of varying lengths and difficulties.
- Scenic Views: Provides picturesque views of Charleston Harbor and the city skyline.
- Biking Opportunities: Also suitable for mountain biking, making it a versatile trail system.
5. Shem Creek Park Trail
A 2-mile long paved trail along Shem Creek offering views of boats and seafood restaurants.
- Waterfront Views: Enjoy the sights of fishing boats, dolphins, and seafood eateries.
- Accessible Location: Easy access from downtown Charleston and nearby attractions.
- Popular for Cycling: Popular spot for casual cycling, rollerblading, or walking.
6. Sullivan's Island Beach Trail
A peaceful 2-mile long trail along Sullivan's Island beach for walking and shell collecting.
- Quiet Beach Environment: Less crowded than some other Charleston beaches, offering tranquility.
- Beachcombing Opportunities: A great place to find unique shells and sharks' teeth.
- Historic Fort Moultrie: Close proximity to historic Fort Moultrie for additional sightseeing.
7. Edisto Island Nature Sanctuary Trail
A remote, 10-mile long trail through Edisto Island's pristine marshlands and forests.
- Remote Wilderness Experience: Offers a unique and untouched wilderness experience.
- Birdwatching Paradise: Ideal location for birdwatching, especially during migratory seasons.
- Camping Opportunities: Designated campgrounds available for overnight stays.
8. Morris Island Lighthouse Trail
A challenging 3-mile round trip hike to the ruins of Morris Island Lighthouse.
- Historic Site: Visit the remains of a significant Civil War era lighthouse.
- Challenging Terrain: Traverses sandy beaches and steep dunes, offering an adventure.
- Coastal Wildlife Observation: Opportunity to observe sea turtles, dolphins, and various bird species.
9. Caw Caw Interpretive Center Trail
A 4-mile long trail through a coastal forest with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Coastal Forest Environment: Trail winds through lowcountry forests, marshes, and cypress swamps.
- Historic Site: Features remains of rice plantations from the antebellum era.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Known as a prime location for birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations.
10. Boone Hall Plantation Trail
A 2-mile long nature trail through the historic Boone Hall Plantation.
- Historic Landmark: Walk the grounds of a plantation dating back to the early 18th century.
- Nature and History Combined: Experience the beauty of nature amidst Charleston's rich history.
- Gullah Culture Education: Learn about Gullah culture, a unique blend of African and Southern American traditions.
11. Middleton Place Trail
A scenic trail through the beautiful gardens and woodlands of Middleton Place.
- Historic Garden Estate: Walk the grounds of America's oldest landscaped garden.
- Nature and History Combined: Experience the beauty of nature amidst Charleston's rich history.
- Gullah Culture Education: Learn about Gullah culture, a unique blend of African and Southern American traditions.
12. Charleston Harbor Kayak Trail
A kayaking trail around Charleston Harbor offering stunning views of the city.
- Unique Perspective: Experience the city from a unique angle on the water.
- Historic Sites Viewing: Pass by historic sites like Fort Sumter and the Battery.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunity to observe dolphins, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
13. Folly River Park Trail
A paved trail running along the Folly River with views of fishing boats and marshes.
- Waterfront Views: Enjoy the sights of fishing boats, dolphins, and seafood eateries.
- Accessible Location: Easy access from downtown Charleston and nearby attractions.
- Popular for Cycling: Popular spot for casual cycling, rollerblading, or walking.
14. Isle of Palms County Park Trail
A beachfront trail along Isle of Palms offering scenic views and wildlife spotting.
- Beach Environment: Walk along the beautiful beaches of the Isle of Palms.
- Chance to see Dolphins: Opportunity to observe dolphins playing in the surf from the beach.
- Surfing and Fishing: Perfect spot for surfing, fishing, and enjoying a picnic.
15. Coastal Expeditions Morris Island Trail
A guided kayak tour of Morris Island, passing by the ruins of the lighthouse.
- Guided Tour Experience: Join a knowledgeable guide for an informative and enjoyable tour.
- Historic Site: Visit the remains of a significant Civil War era lighthouse.
- Coastal Wildlife Observation: Opportunity to observe sea turtles, dolphins, and various bird species.