Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge Full Tour
Map of Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge Full Monty Hike
Overview. This 14-mile trek is a gorgeous way to get outside for the day and enjoy the natural coastal environment on wide, flat, and well manicured trails. Enjoy several ponds, waterside vistas, and the quiet beach at White Point. Sunrises and sunsets can be had here without the crowds. Check the hiker notes below.
Route Type | Loop and Spurs
Total Distance | 14 miles
Elevation Gain | 147 feet
Overall Difficulty | Easy
GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 32.234156, -80.779350
Parking. More than two dozen parking spaces are available on the loop near the trailhead with a couple spaces available along the road on the way in.
Trail Navigation. Head out from the trailhead and turn right on the main road. From here, the basic route navigation is to take a left at all intersections except the spur to Osprey Pond where you’ll take a right and return back to the main road. On this route, you’ll visit all the ponds and viewpoints with a really nice scene at White Point Beach.
HIKER NOTE - Sunrise. If you head out early, consider Bull Point, Shell Point, or White Point for sunrise. Over the months nearest Winter Solstice, Bull and Shell will have a better view.
HIKER NOTE - Sunset. Catch sunset at Dick Point, White Point, or at one of the unnamed spots off the main road. A short walk on the road can yield a quiet sunset, as the refuge closes at dark.
RULE REMINDER - Day Use ONLY. This refuge is open from dawn to dusk and has an automated gate. No camping or overnight use is allowed.
RULE REMINDER - No Pets. There are no dogs, cats, or Bengal tigers allowed, so leave them at home while you’re out there.
CAUTION - Surveillance. A good number of surveillance cameras are in use throughout the refuge to keep visitors on the straight and narrow.
CAUTION - No Water. There is no drinking water (or bathrooms) available at the refuge. Be sure to bring plenty of H2O and drain any excess H2O before you hit the trails.
CAUTION - Alligators. Although plenty of alligators call the refuge home, trails are mowed extra wide - making it easy to avoid getting too close.
CAUTION - Venomous Snakes. A total of five species of venomous snakes can be found in this region. Be sure to review this guide from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
