Savannah & Ogeechee Canal Trail

While the trail itself is relatively short, the Savannah Ogeechee Canal Trail may be one of the most interesting hikes in the Savannah area.The hike follows the end of the course of a 16.5 mile manmade canal built in the late 1820's linking the Savannah River to the Ogeechee River in order to facilitate the movement of goods such as rice, bricks, timber and cotton.The canal consisted of four locks, and made possible the transport of many goods throughout the area. However the canal waters were also blamed later for playing a part in the yellow fever epidemic that caused the deaths of over 1000 people. Due to damages caused by wear and floods, the canal was eventually closed in the 1890's when the railroads took over the transporting of goods in and out of the area.Today, many of the artifacts remain in the area on display, along with a nature center that offers guided tours and coordinates activities and maintains trails.There are two parallel trails that make up the out and back of the Canal Trail route - the Heel and Tow trails. Though they run with only a couple dozen feet separating their paths, which makes it easy to head out on one and return on the other. The easternmost of the two runs from the trailhead area on dirt and plank bridge walkways through the swamp wetlands of the area, eventually ending at the Ogeechee River where a small viewing platform with a bench sits. The other trail runs alongside the actual canal, offering glimpses to the remains of the brick canal and lock structures. There are several benches here, and this path reaches the trailhead amidst some of the large displayed artifacts. The nature center has displays and offers guided tours. There are small gardens and bathroom facilities here. Canoes are also available to members.While the Savannah Ogeechee Canal Trail is the main attraction here, there is also a campground that can accommodate groups and tent campers. Additionally, there is the 2 mile out and back Sand Hills Trail that is less scenic than the canal trail, but takes visitors through the palmetto forest.The Savannah Ogeechee Canal Trail lies on private property overseen by the Savannah Ogeechee Canal Society, and visitors are subject to the preserved open hours and entrance fees.In 2022, the area is open to the public from 9am to 5pm Wednesdays through Sundays. Entry fees are $5 per adult, $3 for seniors/military/children, and ages 6 and younger are free. Visitors can also opt to become members which waives entrance fees and allows access to camping and rental canoes.Complete and up to date information can be found at https://www.savannahogeecheecanal.org/