Please join Aaron Palmeiri for a stroll around the boardwalk and trail around the wetlands at Cypress Wetlands, 1700 Paris Ave, Port Royal, SC 29935.

Aaron is an expert birder and is the naturalist at Palmetto Bluff.  The boardwalk offers close-up views of waterfowl, wading birds, alligators, turtles, and occasional surprises. In late April, many of these birds will be feeding young at the nest. Wood storks and night-herons will be a special treat. The walk continues on a trail around the “other” side of the pond, including a viewing platform, and views of the “backsides” of the islands visible from the boardwalk.  While there are a few roots to avoid on the trail part, this is a nearly flat, easy walk, less than a mile. The Boardwalk is open to the sun & weather, the trail is shaded. Dress for the weather, and expect bugs. There are no restrooms on the walk, but Parkers gas station is just across the street from our starting point.

There are several somewhat funky but delicious local restaurants within a 5-minute walk down Paris Ave. Or the larger FishCamp Restaurant is a short drive away, with beautiful views of the sound.

Registration is necessary.

Directions: From Hilton Head / Bluffton, take Rte. 170 toward Beaufort, across the Broad River bridge, then right on Rte. 21. Watch for the veer left to stay on Rte. 21 which becomes Ribaut Rd. In Port Royal, look for a Parkers gas station on the right, where Ribaut Rd and Paris Ave. come together. The entrance to the Cypress Wetlands is actually on Paris Ave, directly across from the Parkers, and near the Post Office. Park along Paris Ave, and walk back to the Wetlands boardwalk.

Photo: Wood Stork by Stephen Kent