Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail

If you’re looking for a peaceful paddle experience, then look no further than the Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail! Take in the unspoiled scenery as you paddle through the longest free-flowing blackwater river in the United States and one of the longest worldwide. 

You may even catch a glimpse of some amazing local wildlife along the way. This 62 - mile stretch is home to several rare and endangered species such as the red-cockaded woodpecker, Southern bald eagle, loggerhead turtle, and short-nosed sturgeon.

Start your adventure at Green Pond Church Landing and continue on until you find that the trail meanders eastward past Colleton State Park. Once you make a sharp southward turn, enjoy panoramic nature views as you pass one of Dorchester County’s most popular, Givhans Ferry State Park!

As you continue paddling through the blue winding trail, you’ll find your adventure soon coming to an end. The Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail stops at Lowndes Landing. For more information about your next paddling experience visit http://www.ercktrail.org/.

Ashley River Blue Trail

Open 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Get the full outdoor experience and head over to Ashley River Blue Trail for a day on the water. Known as one of South Carolina’s most scenic rivers, the Ashley River Blue Trail is a must-see while visiting Dorchester County. Paddle through 30 miles of serene water while scouting wildlife. And if you’re looking to see a variety of birds of prey, you’re in for a treat! The Ashley River Blue Trail is known to have several swallowtail kites, bald eagles and osprey. But this won’t be the only scenery you’ll have while following the winding blue trail. The Ashley River area contains sites listed in the National Register of Historic Places, including Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Middleton Place, and Drayton Hall.

River Access

Howard Bridgman River Access at Bacons Bridge

200 Renken Road
Summerville, SC 29485
32°57'30.6"N 80°12'01.9"W 

The Howard Bridgman River Access at Bacons Bridge is situated on a “carry-down” point, making it an ideal spot for canoes, kayaks, SUPs, and small johnboats. You will notice that the narrow twisting channel will be encountered both immediately upstream and downstream at this access point. 

Herbert H. Jessen Boat Landing

4820 Ladson Road Extension
Summerville, SC 29485
32°56'53.7"N 80°09'53.6"W

If you choose to take a motorboat out for the day, Herbert H. Jessen Boat Landing is where you’ll want to access the river. You’ll find the river channel becomes wider here, making it an ideal spot for an average size boat to start their journey. In addition to the boat ramp, the landing also offers a kayak launch, a fishing pier, a walking trail, and a boardwalk overlooking the Ashley River. It’s a great spot to pull off and enjoy a lunch or snack break in the sheltered picnic table area.