By: Jessica O’Connor
Over the past couple weeks we’ve talked about why you should consider getting into a routine of walking with your dog, as well as must-have items for your walks. Now that you’ve gotten motivated and maybe done some Amazon shopping, all that’s left is deciding where to go.
There are definitely some beautiful walking spots within and convenient to Colleton County. Let’s explore a few so you can decide where you’ll go first!
Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary
If you and your pup live in Walterboro, you have an awesome option close by! The Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary, which has trailhead parking on Highway 17 and Detreville Street, contains paved, boardwalk and natural trails for you and your dog to enjoy.
The trails here are generally wide and decently maintained, but of course walkers should be conscious of wildlife such as snakes and gators in the warmer months in particular. I would take care in particular to not let dogs venture into the edge of any water, as a safety precaution.
Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary isn’t generally as crowded as some destinations, so this is a great option for dogs that may be reactive to other dogs/humans on the leash. I suggest packing your dog’s travel water bottle and spraying down with bug spray prior to heading out.
Gladys Whiddon Park
Walterboro walkers looking for a shorter stroll with their pooch may find Gladys Whiddon Park, on Lakeside Drive, to be just the ticket.
This park boasts a paved walking path around a pond, so you can easily make it back to the car if you or your dog tires.
Since there are often a number of distractions in the form of children playing and ducks/geese, this walking location is best suited to dogs who aren’t easily distracted on the lead.
Colleton State Park
One of the smaller state parks, Colleton State Park is nestled against the Edisto River and convenient to I-95. If you’re looking for a shorter walk in a nature setting, you and your dog may enjoy visiting.
The park offers a nature trail that contains both natural and boardwalk footing. The distance is a little less than half a mile, and the trail winds through the forest to the canoe launching area.
The trail here is a little more primitive than the one at Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary, and definitely not as wide in most areas. This is another location in which I would urge walkers to always be scanning the area for snakes as you walk during months that reptiles are most likely to be moving-in our area, I always assume that is most of the year.
I’d find Colleton State Park’s trail to be another that is a good choice for dogs that don’t do well in crowds.
Edisto Nature Trail
This trail, located in Round O, has both a one mile and a mile and a half loop, circling through forest and cypress swamp. Walkers can view several pieces of lowcountry history on the Edisto Nature Trail, including an old railroad tram, a canal, rice fields, and King’s Highway.
Although the distance is short and the elevation flat, this is a true nature trail. Be prepared to encounter wildlife of varying sorts, including wild hogs. Parts of the trail contain very narrow boardwalk footing, so I wouldn’t advise trying to walk more than one dog here with a single set of hands. In truth, I personally wouldn’t have this location on my list until the winter months.
On the plus side, the Edisto Nature Trail is a wonderful place to experience the beauty of the lowcountry and exercise with your dog without the bustle of busy parks.
Edisto Beach
If you really want to do something special with your dog, I highly recommend visiting Edisto Beach for a beach walk! Dogs must be on-leash on the beach from May 1-October 31 (and year round in Edisto Beach State Park), but there are no designated times that dogs are not allowed throughout the year.
I recommend coordinating the timing of your walk with low tide so you don’t have to walk in the deep sand-it’s less taxing on both you and your dog. Be mindful as well that the sand can be awfully hot on your dog’s feet during the hottest parts of the day. Also, be sure to bring along some fresh water!
If you want to refuel after your walk, head over to SeaCow Eatery or McConkey’s Jungle Shack. Both allow your dog to dine with you on the patio!
I hope this gave you some insight on places you and your dog can enjoy burning off excess energy together. Chief and I love visiting new places to walk-it’s something we both look forward to daily. Pick a few favorites and switch it up every couple days so you never get bored!
