Lowcountry Hiking Trail

Hiking Trail
Tupelo

(Savannah National Wildlife Refuge)

Description: From the parking area on SC 170, you will have to walk 2 miles into the Savannah River National Wildlife Refuge on an easy walking connector trail to the Tupelo Trail. Once there, you will follow Vernezobre Creek on a dike that remains from the days when this area was a rice plantation. Unlike some other dikes in this area, this one has not been built up or widened. Befitting its name, tupelo trees shade the Tupelo Trail, although you will see many bald cypress and massive live oaks, some said to be 150 years old. In season, birding and alligator watching opportunities are almost unlimited, and there is a good chance you will spot great horned owls, ricebirds such as bobolinks, and red-winged blackbirds.

Length: 1 mile, one-way (plus a 2-mile connector)

Fees: None

Directions: From Exit 5 on Interstate 95 at Hardeeville, drive south on US 17. After approximately 4 miles, SC 170 joins US 17. Stay on SC 170 when it forks to the right and the parking area for the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge is approximately 1 mile on the right, directly across the highway from Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive.

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Camping: No camping.

Information: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1000 Business Center Drive., Parkway Business Center, Suite 10, Savannah, GA 31405, Telephone: 912-652-4415.