The Stono River County Park Trail is an easy 1.5 mile round-trip hike that brings hikers to gorgeous wetlands along the namesake river and through isolated forests. Two optional spurs extend the trail into its full 1.5 miles, while those looking for a shorter excursion can easily exclude them or part of the loop. Though picturesque, there’s not much escaping road noise since a large bridge along Main Road rises less than a mile away. Regardless, if you’re looking for beautiful settings and a great place to go birding, this one is well worth doing.
Stono River County Park Trail Description
The trail begins as a paved route snaking through the forest before cutting left to begin heading toward the Stono River. After a bit more meandering, the trail will convert to a boardwalk which will guide you over grassy wetlands. At the other end of the boardwalk you’ll descend onto a more conventional trail, which is also the loop.
Heading counterclockwise, the first spur leads out toward the river, providing a gorgeous view up and downstream. Continuing around the forested loop, the second of two spurs leads to another small loop that guides you through calming evergreens.
The main loop closes out back at the boardwalk and you can head back out the same way you came in.
Getting There
From downtown Charleston, follow Highway 17 west for 9.1 miles. Turn left onto Main Road and continue for 0.9 miles and look for Stono River County Park on your right.