If you love the outdoors, you probably desire cooler weather. If so, good news! There are some great hikes that get even better in the winter months. Here's a look at some of the most underrated winter hikes in the Manning, South Carolina area. more Congaree National Park This South Carolina gem is one of the oldest bottomland hardwood forests in the state. With most of the park situated at the bottom of a flood plain, there is very little elevation change, making this a great place to hike for novices. There are also eight trails to choose from at Congaree National Park, some as short as 0.3 miles. For the seasoned hiker, the park offers trails over 11 miles long. All trails wind through this beautiful forest starting from the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. The Boardwalk Loop Trail is a 2.4-mile loop with a slight elevation change to the bottom of the flood plain. The trail is wheelchair accessible, and has benches along the way. For another fairly easy hike, the Bluff Trail loops north from the visitor center for 1.7-mile hike through young loblolly trees, and pines. If you want a longer hike, check out the Oakridge Trail. This is a 7-mile hike across a ridge of old oaks. The low-lying sloughs across this ridge line offer plenty of shelter to deer and wild turkey. Poinsett State Park Accessed from Poinsett Park Road in Wedgefield, South Carolina, the Poinsett State Park is a great place for hiking in winter. The 10-acre pond offers plenty of winding trails with very little elevation change, making this a great location for casual hikes. The Park is nestled in the High Hills of Santee, and includes a dozen trails of varying length and skill level. The kids will love the quick 0.2-mile Levi's Run. If you want a view, try the Hill Top Trail. This short 0.4-mile trail will take you up quickly. If you plan on spending the day, the Whippoorwill Trail offers 5.4 miles of hiking through the beautiful hills. You can see animals like deer, and birds of all types. The park offers cabins for rent, and a camping area too. There are park offices and restrooms, and plenty of trail signs so you don't get lost. Ann Springs Close Greenway This nature preserve is located in Fort Mill, South Carolina, and accessed via the Greenway Gateway on Adventure Road. The serious hiker can join their hiking club, which regularly explores this 2,100-acre wonderland. The novice will enjoy guided hikes through the region, while you learn about nature and the local wildlife. History buffs will enjoy hiking a portion of the famous Nation Ford Road. This was once part of the main roadway stretching from Augusta, Georgia all the way to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There's also the Garrison-Webb Gristmill to visit. Check out this historic 1780 gristmill, which served the local area for over 100 years. You'll hike trails that have been used for nearly 250 years. There are plenty of winter hiking venues in the Manning, South Carolina area. The next time you're looking for a fun day outdoors, you should check out one of these three great places. image via pixabay
