Sand Hills Trail via Ridge / Holly Trails

The Sand Hills Trail is a pleasant 2 mile out and back walk in the Savannah & Ogeechee Canal area that rounds out a visit to the historical space.

While the Sand Hills Trail doesn't have the charm, scenery or history of the Savannah Ogeechee Canal Trail and is clearly not the main attraction here, the flat path winds across a flat path that ranges from forest to wetlands to sandy open stretches. The trail passes by the Savannah Ogeechee Canal Campground, before heading into the forest. Blazes mark the path, though the single track itself is very easy to follow.

Along the way, plank boardwalks pass atop some of the wetland swamp areas. Interpretive signage marks some of the flora along the way. This area is popular for educational trips and overnight camp outs with scout groups. Butterflies and palmettos line the path.

While the section of trail marked as the Sand Hills Trail seemingly begins at an arbitrary point, there are two separate trails that connect the path to the historical canal area. The Holly Trail is the route from the nature center through the campground and into the forest, while the Ridge Trail begins a very short distance up the Savannah & Ogeechee Canal Trail along a plank walkway. Both meet and join the Sand Hills Trail which continues further west.

The strangest part of the trail is its abrupt and anticlimactic end, marked by a single sign, at a point in the center of the forest. There are no features around, no sights or payoff, it feels as if the trailmakers just chose a spot to place a sign telling hikers to turn around.

Retrace your route back. Bathrooms and water are located in the nature center area.

The Sand Hills 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/