52 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.ShemCreekRestaurants.com Now that you have plenty of area camping spots to consider, it is time to get out there and explore the great outdoors. Whether you find relaxation in sleeping isolated under the stars, prefer a mobile campsite on wheels or enjoy the comforts of a cabin in the woods, the Lowcountry has a match for your camping style. FIND YOUR STRIDE As flatlanders living in the Lowcountry “hiking” may not have the same connotation here as it does in mountainous regions with elevation, panoramic views and waterfalls. There’s a reason we’re not called the Highcountry. While scaling the majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge or the Great Smokies requires a weekend commitment, we have great trails in our own backyard. These hikes reveal a different type of beauty characteristic of our unique coastal ecosystems. Walking Lowcountry trails often means striding through tidal creek, salt marsh, cypress wetland and longleaf pine forest habitat, and trekking under canopies of towering live oaks adorned in Spanish moss. Here are five local-ish places to consider when deciding on your next walk in the woods. Caw Caw Interpretive Center- One of my favorite Lowcountry birding hotspots, the natural and cultural site Caw Caw Interpretive Center off Highway 17 in Ravenel boasts six miles of unpaved hiking trails featuring interpretive trail-side exhibits. Well-maintained paths meander through diverse habitats such as cypress swamp, rice dikes, maritime forest and bottomland forest. Potential wildlife sightings at this former rice plantation turned nature preserve can include alligators, deer, otters, red-headed woodpeckers, osprey, eagles, herons and egrets, and other various songbirds and waterfowl. Pets and bicycles are not permitted. Includes welcome center and restrooms. Check their website for admission, hours and special programs like their Early Morning Bird Walks. For more info: ccprc.com/53/Caw-Caw-Interpretive-Center our town STUNNING WORKMANSHIP QUALITY GUARANTEED • Patios • Driveways • Pool Decks • Outdoor Kitchens • Water Features • Fire Features • Artificial Turf . . . and more! We offer a discount as our thank you for your service. We are veteran owned and understand the sacrifice of our service members and first responders firsthand. setinstonehardscapessc.com | 843-388-5688 Add beauty, function and value to your home with a new outdoor living space. Call today for a FREE estimate and let’s make your backyard dreams a reality.
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