7 trails in Coastal Georgia You Don’t Want To Miss
St. Marys, a charming historic waterfront destination, is known for being the gateway to Cumberland Island National Seashore. However, there are many more reasons to visit this coastal town including seven trails and tours and endless opportunities for biking, hiking, paddling, birding, fishing and camping.
The heart of this destination is St. Marys Waterfront Park, also called Howard Gilman Memorial Park. From this spot, visitors can watch boats ply the river, take a stroll along the boardwalks and piers, have a picnic or visit a nearby restaurant and witness a stunning sunset.
The three-mile Woodbine Riverwalk & Rail-Trail is popular for walking, running and biking. It includes views of both natural habitats and Victorian homes. It culminates at the Satilla River Waterfront Park with its boardwalk observation pier.
To explore more of downtown, St. Marys Walking Tours are a great way to enjoy the walkable district and learn of its history and lore. Themed tours include “A Tale of Prosperity & Turmoil” and “Murder, Mayhem, and Martinis.” For those who want to take the ferry ride over for a day on the island, two-hour Cumberland Island Walking Tours begin at the Dungeness Dock.
Cumberland Island is one of the region’s most popular spots for outdoor adventure. It encompasses more than 50 miles of trails and roads as well as 18 miles of beach. Hiking, biking, camping, birding and beachcombing are popular activities on the island. Primitive camping is allowed in two campgrounds and designated wilderness sites.
On the mainland, Crooked River State Park, which is connected to St. Marys Waterfront Park via the St. Marys Tabby Trail, an 11-mile bike and multi-use path. The park is another beautiful setting for outdoor adventure. Amid maritime forest along the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway, this 500-acre treasure has a nature center, boat launch and dock, cottages, tent and RV camping sites, bike rentals and four miles of hiking trails.
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Both Cumberland Island and Crooked Rivers State Park have designated spots on the Colonial Coast Birding Trail. These locations are only the beginning, as there are numerous other spots to view both native and migratory birds. A day-trip to the nearby Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is also a favorite outing for birders, hikers and campers.
On the water, both paddling and fishing are popular here. From the convenience of the downtown waterfront or the beautiful riverbanks of a nearby park or preserve, accessibility is easy for paddlers of all skill levels. Gear rental and guided excursions are available at several locations.
Experienced paddlers take to the 11-mile section of the Southeast Coast Saltwater Paddling Trail which begins at St. Marys and goes north. To the south, these waters connect to the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail.
Fishing is great here all year and the variety is appealing for a wide variety of interests and budgets. Plenty of charter services with experienced captains offering inshore, nearshore and offshore guided fishing charter excursions. There are also ample public boat launches for those who choose to take to the water on their own.
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When you go To St marys
Cyclists can find equipment rental and repairs at Camden Bicycle Center.
Paddling gear is available through Knucklehead’s Water Rentals and Adventures Up the Creek. The St. Marys waterfront is the launching and landing point for several kayak outings. guided, self-guided as well as instruction.
Anglers can find plenty of options for charter fishing, both inshore and offshore with services like Fish Master Charters and Lang Charters.
Also offering fishing trips, as well as birding and eco tours, is Elliotts Bluff Charter Company.
