Easy hikes and walks around Carolina Forest

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, South Carolina, stretches for almost two kilometers along the Atlantic coast – from 2nd Avenue to 14th Avenue North. It opened in May 2010 and is a popular spot for vacationers. You can stroll along boardwalks, relax in the shade, and enjoy the colorful mix of street food. The summer concerts, fairs, and the weekly fireworks display at the 2nd Avenue Pier are especially popular.

The Otter Lake Boardwalk helps hikers enjoy the Cox Ferry Lake Recreation Area in the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge. There are a few different paths to hike and loops to be routed. The boardwalks, especially prominent on the blue trail, provide great views of wetland and marsh areas. Wetland areas are usually teeming with wildlife, so keep an eye out for southern toads, shorebirds, wading birds, and more!

The Waccamaw River originates at Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina, and flows southwest, paralleling the coastline about 15 miles inland. In the 19th century, the lower Waccamaw River was used for rice cultivation, primarily farmed by enslaved people. Today, the Nature Conservancy has acquired parts of the river's habitat for conservation and preservation to protect the unique ecosystems thriving here.

Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge offers diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife, featuring tranquil swamps, hardwood forests, and scenic trails. Ideal for nature lovers, it's a haven for cycling, birdwatching, and hiking, with opportunities to explore serene landscapes and spot unique species.

Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve is a 10,427-acre natural preserve named after one of the many Carolina Bays. This unique area is thought to be ancient thermokarst lakes formed thousands of years ago when there was a colder, drier, and windier climate. The preserve is the last large, intact piece of Carolina Bay and wet pine savannah habitat in Horry County, with incredible biodiversity. Controlled burns mimic natural fires, supporting rare species like Venus flytraps, coastal black bears, and the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker. Finding carnivorous plants is one of the main draws to this area.

Old Kingston Road is a dirt trail that goes into Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve from the parking lot, offering a straightforward but scenic trail lined with tall trees. It is a nice hiking option for a long route that does not cross any major roads, also giving a feeling of remoteness close to the city.

The Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade spans 1.2 miles from 14th Avenue to 2nd Avenue Piers. There are nice oceanfront views, shops, and restaurants. The boardwalk is divided into two sections: one for enjoying the serene beach environment and another for high-energy fun with beachfront attractions, including the iconic 187-foot-tall SkyWheel. It's a popular spot, so be prepared to share the experience with fellow hikers.

Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge offers diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife, featuring tranquil swamps, hardwood forests, and scenic trails. Ideal for nature lovers, it's a haven for cycling, birdwatching, and hiking, with opportunities to explore serene landscapes and spot unique species.