South Side of Pinckney Island NWR

Map of South Side Hike, Pinckney Island NWR

Elevation Profile of South Side Hike, Pinckney Island NWR

Overview. This was a gorgeous morning hike under lively sun and clouds. Plenty to see here with palmetto, pine, and beautiful Spanish moss covered live oak lining the trails. This place is rich with wildlife including at least a dozen species of coastal birds. Though most stop at Ibis Pond for a short hike, each pond has something different to offer - and all are worth a visit. Baby alligators at Osprey Pond were a nice treat:-)

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 7.5 miles
Overall Difficulty | Easy

GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 32.234156, -80.779350
Pinckney Island NWR Trail Map

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. This hike is easily navigated and well-signed. The only exception is the turn to Ibis Pond that is well defined, but unmarked. Maps are available at the trailhead. Make a right at all trail intersections until going straight on the way back from Bull Point to stop in at Osprey Pond before returning to the trailhead.

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.

Main Road, Pinckney Island NWR

First Viewpoint, Pinckney Island NWR

Tree in the Dry Marshland, Pinckney Island NWR

Shy Crabs, Pinckney Island NWR

Second Viewpoint, Pinckney Island NWR

Morning Flower, Pinckney Island NWR

Sunshine and Spanish Moss, Pinckney Island NWR

Ibis Pond Rookery, Pinckney Island NWR

White Ibis Galore, Pinckney Island NWR

Starr Pond, Pinckney Island NWR

Stand of Tall Pine, Pinckney Island NWR

View from Shell Point, Pinckney Island NWR

Spanish Moss Covered Live Oak, Pinckney Island NWR

Ripples of Sun at Bull Point, Pinckney Island NWR

Osprey Pond, Pinckney Island NWR