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Sullivan's Island Nature Trail
4.5 ★★★★★ 141 Google reviews · Running trail in Sullivan's Island, South Carolina · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Sullivan's Island Nature Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Popular walkway for strolling to the beach and enjoying views of downtown Charleston and Fort Sumter.
What runners say about Sullivan's Island Nature Trail
“Beautiful nature trail, but as access is through a residential area with highly restricted parking, finding a legal parking spot takes some doing!”
Our absolute favorite trail in the area. Most of it is sandy with some boardwalk. The are a few different trails. There is one that is wide, well cleared and really easy to walk as well as others that are a bit more rugged which are fun to explore.
This trail is not that big in distance, but it leads to the beach. Which was a total treat. If you follow the GPS for directions, it's going to bring you to a road you can't park on. However you can park on the main street.
Make sure you take a BioBreak before you park, especially if Aunt Flow is visiting. 😵💫 We parked on Poe Avenue then walked over to the trailhead. There are so many different routes you can take... Like a Choose Your Own Adventure book. Watch out for the spiders that are hanging about along the sides of the trails.
This was such a beautiful and lush trail. We really enjoyed walking to the beach and looking at the wildflowers. Parking is a challenge, but we found a spot finally..
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful nature trail, but as access is through a residential area with highly restricted parking, finding a legal parking spot takes some doing!”
“Beautiful nature trail, but as access is through a residential area with highly restricted parking, finding a legal parking spot takes some doing!”
Plan your run at Sullivan's Island Nature Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitetravelscbeaches.com
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–8 pm |
Running trails near Sullivan's Island
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Pickett Park
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Ocean Walk at Pitt Street Bridge Park
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Park with a fishing pier, grassy area and scenic views of Charleston Harbor.
Shem Creek Park
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Boardwalks, trails & fishing boats highlight this tranquil town park with creek & wetlands views.
Shem Creek Boardwalk
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Laid-back waterside walkway with views of the creek and marsh lands, plus benches.
Pinckney Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 77 reviews
Relaxed park with picnic tables and a playground featuring slides, swings and a tire swing.