The best city hikes and walks in Horry County

There are over 25 urban hiking trails available in Horry County, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and even some more challenging routes.

Urban hikes in Horry County often feature diverse terrain, including paths through maritime forests with towering pines and oaks, coastal environments with scenic marshland views, and paved or boardwalk sections. While much of the area is low in elevation, some trails, like those at Horry County Bike & Run Park, offer more significant elevation changes.

Yes, Horry County offers many easy urban hikes perfect for beginners and families. Trails like the Market Common Trail provide a pleasant experience. Myrtle Beach State Park also features family-friendly options that wind through maritime forests and can lead to the beach via boardwalks, allowing for wildlife observation.

Many urban trails in Horry County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park or trail regulations beforehand. For example, Loris Nature Park offers a dedicated dog park alongside its walking trails, making it a great option for pet owners.

Urban trails in Horry County often lead to or pass by interesting landmarks. You can explore the Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk, walk along the Conway Riverwalk, or visit the Myrtle Beach State Park. The Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge also offers expansive trails through forested wetlands.

Yes, Horry County has several urban trails that are circular, providing convenient loop options for hikers. The Vereen Memorial Gardens loop is a popular choice, offering an easy hike through forests and marshland along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Parking is generally available at trailheads and park entrances for urban hiking trails in Horry County. For state parks like Myrtle Beach State Park, there are designated parking areas, often with a small entrance fee. For other trails, street parking or specific trail parking lots are usually indicated.

Urban trails in Horry County are rich in wildlife. You might spot deer and various bird species in maritime forests, diverse birdlife in salt marshes, and even turtles, ospreys, and alligators in wetland habitats like those found near the Waccamaw River. Huntington Beach State Park is known for loggerhead turtles and alligators.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Horry County Bike & Run Park, known as "The Hulk," offers trails with more significant elevation changes. Additionally, longer routes like the Grissom Parkway Trail provide a more extended and demanding urban hiking experience.

The urban hiking trails in Horry County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse natural beauty, from coastal views and maritime forests to serene riverwalks, and the accessibility of trails for various skill levels.

The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for urban hiking in Horry County, with milder temperatures and lower humidity. Winter can also be enjoyable, while summer hikes are best done early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat and humidity.

Yes, for those looking for a longer urban hike, the Grissom Parkway Trail is a significant option, offering over 20 kilometers of trail. Another extended route is the Myrtle Beach State Park to Boardwalk Trail, which provides a substantial coastal walking experience.