12/11/2009

Man and Nature in Perfect Harmony on Hilton Head Island





Sea Pines Forest Preserve is one of Hilton Head Island's most exotic nature tours. You can survey original Hilton Head Island habitat up close and personal from the comfort and convenience of your own car.

This is a driving tour as well as a walking tour, which makes it an attractive option for the very young and the very old. That's because you don't have to leave the car to enjoy much of the scenery at Sea Pines Forest Preserve. This is a boon for elderly persons who may have mobility issues or for families with very small children,

Not only that, you may feel safer watching the alligators from the security of your automobile, if they tend to make you nervous. However, when it comes to the T-Rex's we make no guarantees.

You'll find an island-park on a lake near the half-way-point of the Sea Pines Forest preserve, beautifully cultivated, with multiple walking bridges. From these there is access to a picnic area on the island, which lies in a gorgeous setting.

After lunch you can stroll along the pier and try to spot some alligators. There are plenty of large turtles to satisfy the alligator appetite, but keep your children in close tow at all times. Alligators can move surprisingly fast. Birdlife and fish are abundant in and around the lake and the public is free to try their hand at fishing.

There are actually several other lakes near the center of the park, all easily accessible by Fish Island Trail. This is a paved roadway which cuts through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, from East to West. Walkways allow access to the lush swamps and bogs, which surround the central sanctuary and lakes on all sides.

The ancient Indian Shell Ring is within easy walking distance of the picnic area, while Harbor Town and the Stoney-Baynard ruins are not far by car. Flora, wildflowers and wildlife, small birds and butterflies and dragonflies are everywhere along the way. But you risk being carried off by a herd of mosquitoes if you forget your bug spray. Don't leave home without it.

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