Palmetto Trail: Awendaw Passage

The passage offers a varied terrain, including crushed stone, dirt, gravel, and sand. While the initial miles from Buck Hall are relatively smooth, you'll encounter notably root-covered sections, especially where Awendaw Creek meets the Intracoastal Waterway. Expect some bumps, and potentially mud or large puddles after rain. There are also flat sections, some switchbacks, and a short paved portion.

You have two main access points. The most popular is the Buck Hall Recreation Area, which offers amenities like restrooms, water, and picnic areas, though a fee is required for parking. Alternatively, you can access the trail for free from the Awendaw Canoe Launch Trailhead.

The Awendaw Passage is generally rated as easy to intermediate. The first few miles are quite easy, but the root-laden sections can be challenging for beginners, who might need to dismount and walk their bikes. Intermediate riders will likely find it enjoyable.

You'll be treated to wonderful views of the salt marsh and expansive vistas of the Lowcountry along Awendaw Creek. The trail winds through picturesque maritime and pine forests. Keep an eye out for shore birds, other lowland creatures, and even crabs. There's a scenic overlook and boardwalk at Walnut Grove, perfect for pausing to take in the surroundings.

Yes, the Awendaw Passage serves as the coastal terminus of the broader Palmetto Trail. It also links to the 47-mile Swamp Fox Passage. Additionally, sections of this route overlap with the official trails named Palmetto Trail: Awendaw Passage and East Coast Greenway (SC).

While there isn't a general permit required for the trail itself, if you choose to start from the Buck Hall Recreation Area, there is a fee for parking. Access from the Awendaw Canoe Launch Trailhead is free.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Palmetto Trail. However, it's always best practice to keep them on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.

Given the presence of insects like chiggers, ticks, biting flies, and mosquitoes, and the potential for snakes, cooler, drier months (fall through spring) are often more comfortable for riding. Summers can be hot and humid with more active insect populations.

The Awendaw Passage is located within the Francis Marion National Forest. While the trail itself doesn't require a specific permit, standard national forest regulations apply. Be aware of potential parking fees at developed recreation sites like Buck Hall Recreation Area. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and be mindful of wildlife.

Absolutely! A key highlight is the Buck Hall Recreation Area Marina at the start, offering facilities and views. Further along, you'll find a scenic overlook and boardwalk at Walnut Grove, providing expansive views of the salt marsh. The entire passage offers beautiful Lowcountry scenery.

If you're looking to avoid parking fees and don't need the amenities, consider starting your ride from the Awendaw Canoe Launch Trailhead. Also, be prepared for the rootier sections towards the Intracoastal Waterway; while mostly flat, these can be surprisingly challenging, especially after rain.