ACE Basin Wanderings - Riverbanks to Scenic Trails| Blog

Edisto Nature Trail Jacksonbro, South Carolina Hiking in South Carolina offers beautiful trails, diverse wildlife, and lush vegetation. However, the state is home to several poisonous plants that can cause serious skin irritation, allergic reactions, or even more severe health issues. Knowing how to identify and avoid these plants is crucial for a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. This guide highlights the most common poisonous plants found in South Carolina, their effec

The ACE Basin in South Carolina stands as one of the most significant estuarine systems on the East Coast of the United States. Covering nearly 350,000 acres, this unique area includes the Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto Rivers, which give the basin its name. The ACE Basin supports a rich diversity of wildlife, provides critical habitats, and offers recreational opportunities that benefit local communities and visitors alike. Yet, this natural treasure faces ongoing threats fro

American Alligator Sunning on a Marsh Bank ACE Basin, South Carolina Wildlife photography is not just about capturing amazing images; it’s about telling a story and raising awareness for conservation efforts. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or a beginner, understanding how to effectively capture wildlife encounters can make a significant difference in your work. This blog post will guide you through essential tips and techniques to enhance your wildlife photography sk

Nine-banded Armadillo The Nine-banded Armadillo has arrived in the South Carolina ACE Basin with mixed reviews. Some people love their ambling gait and quiet nature, while others rally for their removal with reasons ranging from property damage to the diseases associated with them, namely leprosy. I have run across the Nine-banded Armadillo on many occasions while hiking and they largely ignored me. They are not aggressive and, if approached, will flee. Armadillos have poor e

Coastal Azaleas found in the aged undeveloped woods beside the Pon Pon Chapel of Ease taking visitors back in time The Pon Pon Chapel of Ease is a historic site located in Colleton County near Jacksonboro, South Carolina. The Colleton County Historic Preservation Society maintains the Pon Pon Chapel of Ease Ruins preserving Lowcountry history for future generations. The site is currently closed to the public and is undergoing extensive repairs. Preserving and maintaining the

Boardwalk near the old phosphate mine The Edisto Nature Trail is part of the ACE Basin preservation project. It is conveniently located off Hiway 17 South in Jacksonboro, South Carolina. The site has a fair amount of parking and is actively monitored. There is a small picnic area available beside the parking lot. It is open during daylight hours. The Edisto Nature Trail combines boardwalks and naturally worn dirt trails. The trail itself is not difficult but can be challengin

Sheldon is a rural, unincorporated part of Berkeley County that offers several outdoor leisure activities near and around the historic Old Sheldon Church Ruins for which the area is known. From the historian to the hiker, Sheldon does not disappoint. After an afternoon of exploring, pausing by the marshes to watch the colorful sunset is the perfect way to finish your afternoon jaunt. Old Sheldon Church Ruins Old Sheldon Church Ruins Sheldon, South Carolina The Old Sheldon Chu

Goose Pond Loop ACE Basin WMA Hollywood, South Carolina One of the best things about the Ernest F Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge is the location. It is very conveniently located off Hwy 17 South near Parker's Ferry and Willtown Bluff on Johossee Island Road in Hollywood, South Carolina. While the NWR office at Grove Manor is generally staffed 8:30am to 4pm during the week, the NWR is open to pedestrian traffic during daylight hours. Be sure to stop in at Grove Ma

American Alligator partially submerged near a marsh bank With warming weather, alligators are "waking up" from their brumation. Brumation, for those unaware, is simply the period of time where the alligators slow their metabolism - eating less and conserving energy - due to cold weather when water temperatures fall below 70 degrees. Small American Alligator sunning on the marsh bank During this time, alligators are still active. Brumation is not hibernation. Alligators are st

Sunsets capture our attention, inviting us to pause and appreciate the serene beauty of nature. On Port Royal Sound, this daily event transforms the sky and water into an amazing display of autumn colors that shift with breathtaking intensity. The experience of watching a sunset on the Sound connects you to the rhythms of nature and presents you a rare gift of the Sea Islands. Gray's Hill Boat Landing Beaufort, South Carolina Port Royal Sound is located in the Sea Islands reg

Sunset over the Goose Pond at the ACE Basin NWR The sunsets on the Goose Pond Loop are very well-known in the Lowcountry for their warm, moody displays of color against the landscape. The main entrance to the refuge closes at 4pm, so you must park outside the gate and hike to the Goose Pond Loop. Be certain to plan your hike as the park hours are extended for pedestrian traffic until sunset. Golden Hour at the Cross Dike at the ACE Basin NWR Be mindful that you are visiting t

Great Blue Heron weathering storm at Boyds Creek near Tuten's Landing Great Blue Herons are common sightings in Lowcountry wetlands and waterways. They are found hunting in shallow waters standing quietly before striking. They are easily identified by their blue-grey feathers and long legs. The white head and black striping over the eye give Great Blue Herons a regal appearance. Even when weathering a storm (as seen in the picture above), Great Blue Herons will tuck themselve