Description: Whether you are hiking or mountain biking, pick up a map at the kiosk in the parking area, to guide you around the 5.0 miles of level looping trails. You will follow a double track dirt and sand road into lush wetland foliage intermingled with areas of pine and sweetgum trees. In places the trail narrows as you pass through tall grass and wet mud. You will cross over dark water dotted with lily pads, and loop past several dikes. Alligators, water birds, snakes and cypress trees thrive in this habitat. So do mosquitoes -- remember to wear insect repellent! Most of the trail is open all year, although some segments are closed for wildlife management from November 1 through March 1.

You may want to avoid this trail during wet weather. Motorized vehicles are not permitted. Water and facilities are available at the Sewee Visitor Center in Awendaw.

Length: 5.0 miles of trails.

Fees: None.

Directions: From Charleston, drive northeast on US 17 to Awendaw. Continue on US 17 for approximately 7.5 miles, and the trail entrance is on the right, marked by a small State Forest sign.

Hours: Dawn to dusk.

Camping: None.

Information: Francis Marion National Forest, Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw, SC 29429 Telephone: 843-928-3368.