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The Edisto River Canoe & Kayak Trail cover 66 miles of
the river for which it's named. The Edisto is reputed
to be the worlds longest free-flowing "blackwater"
stream. "Blackwater" is a term that not only describes
the color of the tannin-rich water, but also refers to
the peaceful rate of flow that characterizes such
rivers. This was an extremely important waterway to
the colonists and to the local Indians.
A day spent floating the river may bring into view a
wide variety of Lowcountry wildlife, including deer,
turtles, water snakes, river otters, and alligators.
All are shy creatures and easily frightened. Quiet
paddlers are often rewarded with wildlife sightings.
Many of the birds commonly seen are ducks, king
fishers, warblers, great blue herons and egrets, among
others.
The Edisto is known for it's good fishing and is a
particularly good habitat for red breast sunfish. Live
oaks draped with Spanish moss frame the river's banks.
Other trees common to the area include red maple,
cypress, tupelo, gum, and several species of pines.
Wildflowers abound in the Spring and Fall.
The Edisto River Canoe & Kayak Trail was developed to
promote the wise use of this beautiful river as well
as to protect it as a valuable natural resource.
Found along the trail are two of South Carolina's
state parks:
Colleton State Park (843) 538-8206 and
Givhan's
Ferry State Park (843) 873-0692, both offer
campsites and picnicking. Givhan's Ferry State Park
has rental cabins.
What should you bring?.... Food and drink. Dry clothes
& toilet tissue in a water proof bag. Insects are
rarely a problem along the Edisto, but sunscreen is
recommended. If you and your group are not on a guided
trip, bring a first aid kit and be sure each person
has a life vest. A string to prevent lost eye glasses
and a water proof bag for valuables like car keys,
cameras, binoculars, etc. is a good idea.
Each season can bring a different paddling experience,
and water levels can fluctuate significantly depending
on recent rainfall. It is recommended that canoeists
avoid paddling the river if the water level is at
flood stage, or over 7.5 feet. For daily information
about the current water depth, water temperature and
weather, call (843) 538-3659.
South Sport
offers guided canoe and kayak trips on the Edisto
River throughout the year.
Canoeing and kayaking are great family activities.
Keep in mind that, while the Edisto is a relatively
gentle flat-water river, it can present a variety of
hazards - wasps, snakes and strainers for example.
Strainers are fallen trees with strong river currents
flowing through them. Staying on the inside of river
bends will help you avoid strainers.
All members of a group should stay together and avoid
spreading out too far along the river. Everyone, even
experienced paddlers should wear a life vest at all
times while canoeing or kayaking. File a float plan,
or at least let someone know where you will be on the
river and when you expect to return.
The Edisto River Canoe & Kayak Trail was developed for
your enjoyment.
Use the trail at your own risk.
843-844-2514
info@theacebasin.com |
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