Written by Gabrielle Stoller, Illustrations by Gabrielle Stoller
Let’s celebrate National Take a Hike Day! Officially recognized Nov. 17, hiking is a wonderful activity that can be utilized whenever. It can also be very beneficial for stress relief. As we bees head into finals week, let’s take a moment to relax and celebrate nature. Here is a list of nearby hikes and activities to consider.
Cumberland Island Trails
This hike may be of particular interest for any architecture or equestrian students. Hike through enchanting oaks to find the deserted ruins of Carnegie Mansion or hike along the beaches and see if you might view Cumberland Island’s wild horses. This island offers a range of hikes from beginner to intermediate and is less than a two hour drive from Savannah.
Forsyth Park Loop
This is a one mile loop where you can walk, jog or run and experience the heart of Savannah. Find magic in the Spanish Moss covered oak trees, bring a sketch pad with you for after your exercise or a volleyball to continue the fun on the grass. Overall, Forsyth is a great, nearby option for you and a group of friends to de-stress together.
Skidaway Island State Park Trails
Sandpiper Trail Loop
Looking for a short hike with a more scenic view? Enjoy this one mile hike located only half an hour from Downtown Savannah. The hike takes about an hour walking time and will bring you through Georgian salt flats and tidal creeks. You may see fiddler crabs or pine beetles which inhabit this bay-side trail.
The Big Ferry
Searching for a longer hike within the same travel distance? Also located on Skidaway Island, The Big Ferry is a two mile hike that will take about two hours walking time. You can make it a three mile hike by visiting the historic “Earthworks” which are mounds built by enslaved people during the Civil War as a defense system. You may also see alligator ponds (be careful!) and shell middens (piles of oyster shells left by early Native people). This walk will make for a great sketchbook entry!
Fort McAllister State Park Trails
Located a little less than 45 minutes away, this state park will bring you an amazing mix of the past and present. Hike a one mile or three mile trail along historic battlefields and Spanish Moss covered oak trees. If you make it up to the observation tower, you will find nearly 360-degree views of Georgia marshland and the Ogeechee River all while embossed by coastal Georgian wildlife.
Here’s a list of ideas to make your hike even more fun:
- Now that it’s fall, the leaves are changing color. Collect them & organize by color!
- Going for a coastal hike? Create a giant zen garden!
- Collect driftwood for your next project or just for some bohemian interior design.
- Bring a hammock — hang out among the oak trees and just breathe.
- Need more nature? Many of these trails have camping sites!
