10 Reasons to go Hiking Around The Grand Strand!
1. We all have seen and read the negative effects of too much screen time has on all of us, so leave the phones in the backpack and get going.
2. You and your family can take in all the beautiful scenery, nature is all around us, we just have to open our eyes and see the wonderful outdoors. Depending on the time of the year, plants and flowers may be blooming, the birds could be singing and squirrels storing away nuts for the winter.
3. Hiking boosts confidence and critical thinking by planning our next move or how we are going to cross the river. When you make it up a steep hill you will feel a sense of accomplishment.
4. A safe hiker always has a map and reading a map is a great skill to have. Phone batteries die but a map lives on!
5. Hiking can boost motor skills. Trails are full of roots, rocks, and other challenges that need to be maneuvered around and improve our balance and dexterity.
6. Of course we all know exercise is very important but out in nature, it is fun and not just a workout!
7. Maybe the best of all benefits is better sleep! Exercise and outdoor play are very important to sleeping better.
8. Hiking reduces stress, depression, and anxiety.
9. Sometimes you need to slow down a bit. Hiking is a wonderful way to do that because it rids us of the outside distractions and nagging feeling that you must be staring at a screen.
10. Hiking burns more calories than walking, Thirty minutes of hiking burns approximately 270 calories.
Now we know the why, let's get to the where!
Myrtle Beach
Horry County Bike And Run Park
This is a park for true nature lovers. This six-mile trail near Myrtle Beach takes two hours and six minutes to complete. This park is kid-friendly and offers river & forest views. This trail is also great for mountain biking, trail running, and walking.
For more information click here.
Brookgreen Gardens Loop
This kid-friendly trail is one point four miles long and can be done in almost thirty minutes, the trail is considered easy. Along this trail, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful local wildflowers and wildlife. Just a hint be on the lookout for birds here so bring your binoculars just in case.
For more information click here.
North Myrtle Beach
Heritage Shores Nature Preserve
If you are looking for a new trail to try, why not head over to Heritage Shores Nature Preserve. Located near Cherry Grove Park and has 40 different stations along the trail. Bonus there are also a few picnic areas that have shelters where you and the family can bring along your lunch or snacks to enjoy together.
For more information click here.
North Myrtle Beach Nature Trail
North Myrtle Beach Nature Trail is located on Champions Blvd in Little River and is one that you’ve never experienced before. This is a 2 ½ mile trail that was made for you and your family to enjoy. It is always a must to hike with a buddy, because like many trails you may happen to run across some of the wildlife that lives along the trail such as wild hogs, snakes, bobcats, and even black bears.
For more information click here.
Little River
Vereen Memorial Gardens
Located along the Intracoastal Waterway in Little River there are more than 115 acres of forest and marshland. Vereen Memorial Gardens has approximately 3 miles of nature trails and boardwalks that take you through the botanical gardens and along its waterfront.
For more information click here.
