Water Trail

Cuddo Unit Canoe

TrailMap

Description: From the launching area you can paddle out onto an arm of Lake Marion, or follow the creek into the refuge to Goose Pen Pond. During your float you may see many of the wildlife species that inhabit the varied landscape of Santee. During the winter months, the threatened bald eagle and occasionally the endangered peregrine falcon can be seen. From November through February migrating waterfowl such as mallards, pintails, teal and wood ducks along with Canada geese are a major attraction. Throughout the year red-tailed and red-shouldered hawks can be viewed soaring overhead, as can a variety of songbirds in the trees, and wild turkey. The forest also provides a home for white-tailed deer and other woodland creatures such as raccoons, squirrels and bobcats. The ponds and marshes provide a home for alligators, plus a number of other reptiles and amphibians.