Here are 5 of the best places to connect with SC nature around Myrtle Beach
If you’re over the beach and want to enjoy the cooler fall weather, now is the perfect time to hit one of the Myrtle Beach area’s trails.
With clear, sunny skies and high temperatures in the low 60s all weekend and into next week, according to the National Weather Service, the weather couldn’t be much better to get out and enjoy the outdoors.
If you’re interested in connecting with nature around the Grand Strand, these five spots are great places to start.
Heritage Shores Nature Preserve
5611 Heritage Drive, North Myrtle Beach, 29582
Home to a 1-mile trail loop rated easy by South Carolina Trails, Heritage Shores Nature Preserve in Cherry Grove offers a stunning look at North Myrtle Beach’s natural marshes. The trail features both dirt and boardwalk paths. In addition to taking in the views, visitors can learn about local nature from signs throughout the park
Horry County Bike and Run Park
150 Frontage Rd B-2, Myrtle Beach
Located in Carolina Forest, the Horry County Bike and Run Park is home to The Hulk, a 7-mile track open to walkers, runners and bikers. If you’re looking for a change of pace, South Carolina Trails says The Hulk, “will leave you questioning if you are still in Myrtle Beach.”
The trail, which features stretches of both dirt and boardwalk, is tougher to navigate than other local trails, especially when it rains and the path gets muddy. With some steeper climbs, the trail is rated difficult by South Carolina Trails.
16148 Ocean Highway, Murrells Inlet
The maritime forest at Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet offers two trails, both with easy ratings from South Carolina Trails. The shorter path, Kerrigan Nature Trail, is about a quarter-mile long and offers views of Mullet Pond, Mallard Pond and the driveway of Atalaya Castle.
The 2-mile Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail winds through the maritime forest by dunes, trees and wildlife. Those interested in extending their hike can also visit the park’s jetty for a chance to spot rare seabirds and marine life.
4401 S. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, 29575
Myrtle Beach State Park features a trail loop roughly 2.5 miles long covering the Sculptured Oak Trail and Yaupon Trail. Both trails are rated easy by South Carolina Trails and are generally level. The park is a great place to explore Myrtle Beach’s natural habitat of coast, ponds and maritime forest. The spot is also a popular local destination for pier fishing and bird watching.
2250 Highway 179, Little River, 29566
Located on the Intracoastal Waterway with more than 100 acres of forest, marshes, gardens and, as the name suggests, historical grave markers, Vereen Memorial Gardens is heralded as a hidden jewel by South Carolina Trails. The Little River destination has 3 miles of easy trails covering dirt and boardwalk paths with views of trees, wildlife and water.