Francis Marion National Forest

Tuxbury Horse Trail's 14 miles run along old railroad logging trams, traversing a wide array of habitat types, from mature longleaf pine stand to bottomland hardwood drains.

Visitors may glimpse prothonotary warblers darting among swamp cypress trees, or endangered red-cockaded woodpeckers in search of food in the bark of majestic longleaf pines.

Points of interest nearby include Hellhole Bay Wilderness Area, Huger Recreation Area and Big Ocean Bay Natural Area.

Length: 14 mile, loop

Travel Time: 4 hours by horseback

Difficulty Level: Easy

Surface Type: Unsurfaced grassy

Camping: Contact one of the offices to get a free camping permit.

Directions: There is a trailhead with parking available just off SC Highway 41. From Charleston, Take US Highway 17 north to the intersection of SC Highway 41. Turn left and continue seven miles to the trailhead on the left.

Safety: During temperate months, be prepared for biting insects and high temperatures. Be advised of big-game hunting seasons. Avoid using the trail during excessively wet periods.

Recommended Season: Fall, winter, spring

Restrictions: Horseback riders, hikers, and mountain bikers only