Top Hiking Areas in Pooler, GA - McQueen's Island Trail | Pooler Smoke & Vape

McQueen's Island Trail

Savannah, Georgia 31410, United States

The 6-mile McQueen's Island Trail, built on a stretch of the Savannah & Atlantic Railroad line, provides a salt-air excursion for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The railroad, which was built in 1887, transported passengers from Savannah to Tybee Island, a popular turn-of-the-century beach resort. In 1923, a highway to the island was built, effectively ending the railroad's existence.

The trail parallels the South Channel of the Savannah River, a major shipping route and entry point to the Port of Savannah, from its trailhead just 15 miles east of town. Short bridges transport you through saltwater marshes. This beautiful trail is lined with cord grass, cabbage palms, yaupon holly, and coastal cedars, and interpretive signs list the native wildlife, which includes the eastern box turtle, American alligator, diamond back terrapin, bobcat, osprey, red-tailed hawk, and brown pelican. Watch for these, as well as frolicking dolphins in the river. Visitors can pause, take in the scenery, and enjoy a picnic on benches strategically placed throughout the park.

From its earliest inhabitants (Gaulle Indians, followed by early colonists) to the Revolutionary and Civil War battles fought on its soil, this region has an interesting and extensive history. Finish your journey by visiting the massive brick Fort Pulaski, which was captured in 1862 by Union troops using an experimental rifled cannon. If you have time, go to Tybee Island, which is a few miles east of the trail. The lighthouse on Tybee Island, built in 1732, is Georgia's oldest and tallest.

Parking and Trail Access

• Follow US 80 east toward Tybee Island to reach the eastern trailhead. The trailhead is about 15 miles east of Savannah; look for the Fort Pulaski National Monument sign. There is parking along the road and at the fort.
• Follow the directions above to the western trailhead, but continue a few miles along US 80 to a small roadside parking area just before the Fort Pulaski turnoff.

Beautifully situated trail next to the Savannah River's South Channel, surrounded by marshlands. There are two ways to get to it (midpoint and near bridge to Ft Pulaski). It's a 6-mile one-way run that can be extended by running over the bridge to Ft Pulaski. Unfortunately, several sections (particularly near the midpoint) are in poor condition, with areas washed away and makeshift bridges made of balance beams that are difficult to negotiate.

This trail is accessible at its midpoint and at the east end at the Ft. Pulaski entrance. At high tide, the midpoint access is submerged, and the crossing bridge is missing. A portion of the trail is usable from the east end until you reach a large washed-out gap. Turn left at the Ft. Pulaski sign and park on the grass to your left.

This six-mile trail is ideal for joggers and cyclists. The gravel is gentle on the knees, and the scenery is breathtaking. If you head east (or turn left), you'll come across a half-mile stretch of fit-trail-style workout stations. Monkey bars, parallel bars, balance beams, fireman's poles, and a few other stations are available. There is certainly enough equipment to get a good workout in. Plus, if you follow the trail all the way to the end, you'll discover a very interesting surprise.