Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the diverse landscapes and natural beauty of South Carolina. Some of the trails are more heavily traveled than others, so if you're interested in one of the more remote hiking trails in South Carolina, a perfect option to consider is the Larry Paul Trail, which is located on Sandy Island. If you've never heard of this island before, that's because it's one of those that can only be reached by boat. But it's worth a visit for those who love escaping to locations away from the crowds!
Sandy Island is the largest protected freshwater island on the East Coast, totaling just over 9,000 acres. Most of the island is owned by The Nature Conservancy as a nature preserve, with smaller areas owned and occupied by a handful of families descended from African slaves who worked on the island's prior plantations from years ago.
The trailhead for Larry Paul Trail is found off of the boat landing on Thoroughfare Creek, one of several boat landings on the island.
The trail is a 2.1-mile loop and is an easy hike with beautiful scenery. You'll also find markers along the trail identifying ecosystems, trees, and possible animal footprints to look out for.
Hikers have reported seeing turkey, bobcat, wild pig, and coyote prints along the trail. You'll also pass by an old cemetery.
With the location of this remote trail being in the lowcountry area, you'll want to be sure to bring a good bug repellant, particularly during the warmer season.
Learn more about other fun things to do on Sandy Island after you've finished your hike, which takes an average of about half an hour to complete:
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/south-carolina/off-the-beaten-path-destination-sc/
Do you have a favorite remote trail in another area of South Carolina?
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