Thursday, December 20, 2018

Spanish Moss Trail Beaufort SC


Rode Spanish Moss Trail in Beaufort SC the other day 10.3 miles out and back total 20.6 miles. The Spanish Moss Trail (sometimes referred to as the Beaufort Rail Trail or the Magnolia Line Trail) follows the former Port Royal Railroad that was constructed in 1870. The planned 13.6-mile scenic pathway will run through Beaufort County between Port Royal and Yemassee.

I started on the northern most trail head off Clarendon Rd and US-21.  The trail has a concrete surface very well maintained flat smooth and wide with the exception of about a quarter of a mile on the north end that is hard packed gravel.  Lots of views of tidal creeks and marshes with several bridges over the creeks.  It travels through developed area with lots of cross streets.  There are residents and business along the trail but there are also plenty of trees to make the trail feel secluded.  I counted 23 street crossings with 4 of them being major highways with traffic lights to assist with the crossing.  

There are several trail heads and parking along the trail.  Most of the trail would be great for family rides.  The exception in my opinion for the family riding the trail is the major road crossings.  With the aid of Google Maps there is plenty of trail to ride without crossing a major highway.  If you are looking for a trail to put in some miles with a workout this might not be a trail for you but if you are looking for a relaxing ride with some beautiful scenery this is a trail for you.