Charleston, SC has some of the best outdoor trails for walking and biking. Whether you love being in a park, garden, neighborhood, or overlooking a body of water, there is a trail for you. The trails are user-friendly and easy to access. If you want to get fit or get out of the house for some fresh air, check out this list.
1. West Ashley Greenway
The trail begins in James Island/West Ashley and ends in Johns Island at Stono River County Park. On the route, you will begin on the paved surface. Eventually, the road becomes dirt and gravel as you pass by the river near Johns Island. It’s a beautiful site. You can park in the Earthfare shopping center on James Island to start your venture as we did.
2. Arthur Ravenel Bridge
Home of the Cooper River Bridge Run. This is a great 6-mile workout because of the multiple inclines. The scenery overlooking the Cooper River is breathtaking. You can park on the Mt. Pleasant side or Downtown Charleston side to begin your walk or ride. I typically park at the Shell gas station at the foot of the bridge in Mt. Pleasant.
3. Hampton Park
Historic Hampton Park is located Downtown near The Citadel. This trail is surrounded by beautiful oak trees. It also has a lake where you are bound to see friendly waterfowl like geese and ducks.
4. Charles Town Landing
Bike rentals are available. There are 6 miles of trails at this historic South Carolina site. The admission fee is $12 for adults. Senior discounts are available. Children 5 and under are FREE. Location- West Ashley area.
5. Sawmill Branch
Located in Summerville. Parking available near W. Richardson Street. This peaceful scenery is filled with trees and streams. The trail is 6 miles long.
6. Oakbrook Nature Trail
The walking trail is located in Summerville near Summerville Medical Center. The trail is 0.6 miles long.
7. Nexton
The Nexton trail can be seen from I-26 exit 199 B. The trail extends to the Cane Bay area. We’ve parked at the Carolina Ale House parking lot to begin our ride on this trail.
8. Ashley River Road Bike Path
This paved trail is located along Highway 61 in West Ashley near Bees Ferry Rd. The trail passes through the Shadowmoss Community and Drayton Hall Elementary School.
9. Cypress Gardens
The gorgeous garden is located in Moncks Corner. It has a paved trail for walkers or bikers. Adult admission is $10. Children ages 5 and under can enter for free.
10. Old Santee Canal Park
Located in Moncks Corner. Park admission is $3 for adults. Children 6 and under are FREE. There is a walking trail at the park that is 1.7 miles long. In addition to 4 miles of boardwalk.
11. Audubon Swamp Garden
The trail is located in Magnolia Gardens and Plantation of West Ashley. Access to this area costs $8 with garden admission. Learn more about Magnolia Gardens is one of my older posts here.
12. Wannamaker Park of Charleston County Parks
Wannamaker Park is a popular location for family reunions and it has a great outdoor trail. As you can see the trail is paved. There are tons of trees for adequate shade. Bike rentals are available for a small fee. If you are not a Charleston County Parks Gold Member, admission is just $1 for entry. Location- North Charleston.
Charleston Area Community Trails
13. Cane Bay Community
Located in Summerville. This trail is paved throughout the community. Great for walking or biking. Some parts of the route are away from traffic. You can park at the Publix shopping center. If you like you can cross the street and get on the Nexton trail nearby.
14. Wescott Community
Wescott Park is located in North Charleston near Dorchester Rd. The trail has paved parts, a boardwalk, and crushed stone surface area for walking. Throughout the residential area walking trails are available too.
15. Crowfield Community
Located in Goose Creek. There are several trails connected to multiple residential communities. You can find people walking or biking on the trails. Sometimes you’ll even see people fishing in the lake too.
16. Carnes Crossroads Community
Carnes Crossroads is another new and growing community. They have paved nature trails that extend from Highway 17A to the actual homes. Eateries such as Dunkin Donuts and East Bay Deli are located across the street if you want a bite to eat.
Okay, I hope this list of trails gives you some new walking or biking options to try.
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