Starting at the Interpretive Center, this enjoyable loop stroll in Old Santee Canal Park crosses swampy Biggin Creek and the Old Santee Canal, that once brought commercial ships to the Cooper River and the Port of Charleston. Although the canal was considered an engineering marvel when it was built in the early 19th century, railroads rendered it obsolete by the 1840s. The Canal Walk is partly boardwalk and has many observation points. At one point it follows the base of a steep limestone bluff, but the bulk of the trail parallels the newer Tailrace Canal, which carries water and boats from Lake Moultrie to the Cooper River. Several bridges along the way provide opportunities to see heron and osprey nests. 

You will need to hike part of the Canal Trail to reach the Hiking Trail. Starting from the Interpretive Center, turn left and hike clockwise on the Canal Trail to an overlook and the trailhead for the Hiking Trail. You will climb rough hewn steps, cross wooden footbridges, and meander amid oak, cedar, red bud, rhododendron, fern, and woodland flowers. The varying terrain along the scenic ridge provides habitat for deer, birds, and a variety of other wildlife. At the far end of the hiking trail you will reconnect with the Canal Walk, where you may extend your hike and return on the Canal Trail, or return the way you came.

Remember to wear insect repellent during warm weather. Pets are allowed on leashes. Water and restrooms are available near the parking area, as well as the Interpretive Center.

There is no camping available in Old Santee Canal Park.

Current pricing and additional information about the park can be found at www.oldsanteecanalpark.org.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily

(Closed New Year's Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day)

From Exit 199 on I­-26 near Charleston: Drive north on US 17A to Moncks Corner. Turn right onto Main Street (SC 6). Drive to the T-intersection with Rembert Dennis Blvd, turn left, then right onto Stony Landing Road. The park entrance is in a half-mile. The Canal Walk trailhead is at the Interpretive Center.