Description: Pick up a map at the Park Center, where you can begin your island exploration on a series of trails through lush green, tropical-looking foliage including magnolia, sweet gum, cedar, and palmetto oak draped with Spanish moss. For a bird’s eye view, stop for a minute and climb the 50­foot observation tower. You can access the quieter areas of the park peninsula by hiking the unpaved trails on either end of the park, where you may see small crabs scattering over the sandy path. You can also cross on a boardwalk to a tidal marsh island where you will see herons and egrets stalking through wetland waters, and possibly an osprey tending a nest. Watch for a variety of other wildlife including snakes and turtles.

The trails in Palmetto Islands County Park have something for everyone from a nature lover to those who are just out for casual exercise.

§         Paved Bike Trail: (2.4 miles) paved biking/hiking trail that spans the park peninsula and alongside Neeedlerush Parkway.

§         Unpaved Trail: (1.0 mile) A series of sandy footpaths, and boardwalks, which follow the perimeter of the park through wetland areas.

§         Nature Island Trail: (1.2 mile) sandy footpath and boardwalk to a natural tidal marsh island.

Remember to wear insect repellent in warm weather. Restrooms, beverages, snacks, and bike rentals are available at the Park Center.

Length: 4.6 miles of interconnecting trails.

Fees: $1 per person (children age 2 and under, free).

Directions: From Exit 25 on I-526 south near Mt. Pleasant, turn left (east) onto Long Point Road. Drive 2.1 miles and turn left at the park sign onto Needlerush Parkway. Drive 1.2 miles to the end of the road and enter the park. Or, from Mt. Pleasant, drive north on US 17, turn left onto Long Point Road, and turn right onto Needlerush Parkway.

Hours: Spring and Fall: 9 am-6 pm, May thru August: 9 am-7 pm, and November thru February 10 am-5 pm.

Camping: No camping.

Information: Palmetto Islands County Park, 444 Needlerush Parkway, Mt. Pleasant, SC, 29464. Telephone: 843-884-0832