Bee Sustainable: Hiking in Savannah
Written by Julia Gralki. Photo courtesy of Charlotte Beck.
If you’re a nature lover (or even if you’re not,) there’ll be a time when you crave a walk somewhere other than run-down sidewalks and traffic-light-filled downtown Savannah. When that moment comes, this guide is here to give you alternatives to your usual walking routes. And the best thing––it’s in real nature (not just parks disguising as nature.)
Whitemarsh Island Preserve Trail
Located on the way from Savannah to Tybee beach, you can find 6+ miles of nature trails for walking, cycling or running.
The maritime forest was made accessible to the public through the help of the Chatham County Resource Protection Commission. Spanning over a total of 150 acres, the preserve includes a brackish marsh, open fields and trails winding through Spanish moss and live oaks.
No matter if you want to go for a hike, bike ride or walk with your dog, the Whitemarsh Island trails do it all.
Skidaway Island
With one of the largest trail networks around Savannah, Skidaway Island is the perfect place to explore nature. Plus, all trails are dog-friendly.
Big Ferry Trail
The Big Ferry Trail is a two-mile loop with a bunch of options to make your hike longer by branching off at one of the shorter loops along the trail. Be prepared to walk past the alligator ponds, saltwater sloughs and earthworks that teach hikers about history and nature.
Avian Loop Trail
This trail is called Avian loop because you may watch ospreys hunting for food in the river. If you plan to spend an afternoon there, you may also witness the tides flowing in and out of the river every six hours.
Sandpiper Trail Loop
As one of the most popular trails on Skidaway Island, this trail takes you through maritime forests over tidal creeks and salt flats. Signposts allow visitors to learn more about the region and its unique resources.
Tybee Island
While Tybee beach doesn’t officially qualify as a trail, it still offers potential for small hiking adventures. For those who are looking for more of a trail, McQueen’s island trail is the perfect hiking destination; however, it is currently closed.
McQueen’s Island Trail
Formerly one of the most popular trails in Savannah, McQueen’s Island Trail is currently closed due to damage sustained from hurricanes in 2016 and 2017 as well as high tides. While the Chatham County Commission is working on restoring the trail, the completion date is pushed back continuously. As of now (May 2022,) the McQueen’s Trail remains closed.
Sally Pearce Nature Trail
Short, but lovely: If Tybee beach is too crowded and the McQueen’s Trail is still closed, the Sally Pearce nature trail offers a great alternative. The trail is famous for the painted bunting––a bird that is native to Tybee Island. While walking on the trail, keep your eyes open to spot the colorful bird.
