Whether you’re visiting the Grand Strand area or you live here year-round, you may be looking for new ways to get out into the fresh air and enjoy the scenery. Biking is a great way to exercise, spend time with your family, and to just get off the beaten path. Two of the most popular biking paths, the Waccamaw Neck Bikeway, and the Hunting Beach State Park, sport scenic views of the Atlantic along with many other natural sites along the way. If you’re interested in checking them out, here is some more information on your next two-wheeled adventure:
The Waccamaw Neck Bikeway is a 12-mile path that runs parallel to U.S. 17, connecting Murrells Inlet to Huntington Beach State Park. It is part of the 3,000-mile trail system that runs from Maine to Florida! Although the path is not continuous as of now, you can ride the “Share the Road” routes in between the completed sections. The best part of this path is the stretch across Huntington Beach State Park. There are also options for a shorter, six-mile ride that loops around the two miles of Sandpiper Pond Trail, known for its bird watching, and the boardwalks that extend into the salt marsh! As this trail expands, it will connect into Georgetown and Pawleys Island.
Although the other bike path crosses into the Huntington Beach State Park, they’ve got some bike paths of their own. This 26-mile bicycle trail runs from Murrells Inlet to Litchfield Beach. As you ride along, you’ll see the many green, oceanfront forests and lagoons which are home to interesting wildlife! You may even see Loggerhead sea turtles, alligators, minks, and other endangered species within this sanctuary. This route is also home to the historic Atalaya Castle, previously the winter lodging for Huntington founders Archer and Anna Huntington. As you ride the route, be sure to take it all in!
Both trails have easy access to free parking, but it’s worth it to pay the small entrance fee to the park. Huntington Beach State Park is home to many attractions, including campsites and three miles of beach to enjoy! It is even dog-friendly year-round! As you’re looking to get out and enjoy the Grand Strand in new ways, this is a great day or weekend trip for any adventurer or family looking to enjoy the natural beauty of our South Carolina Coastline.
– By Olivia Dimatteo, blog contributor for Garden City Realty
