by Angel Rabon, City of North Myrtle Beach Parks & Recreation
North Myrtle Beach may be known for its nine miles of beautiful sandy beaches, but dispersed throughout the city are a variety of trails and open areas for the residents and visiting guests to enjoy. The City of NMB Parks & Recreation maintains many trails and open spaces providing people of all ages a no-cost recreational activity where they can cycle, walk, hike, jog or sit and relax.
Preserving important natural landscapes is one of the benefits of trails and open spaces. The City of NMB offers two preserves that demonstrate just that. The Heritage Shores Nature Preserve is one of the most unique parks in the city. With seven acres of walking trails, the park is located on an island that extends into the marsh. This land is preserved in its native state and is accessible via a series of elevated boardwalks and observation decks. Interpretive signage throughout the park describes the plants, animals, fish, and birds that can be seen on your stroll through the park.
Located adjacent to the preserve is the Cherry Grove Park & Boat Ramp. This popular fishing spot is located on the Cherry Grove Marsh and provides boat access to the marsh and the Atlantic Ocean.
The Russell Burgess Coastal Preserve is a scenic overview of the picturesque Cherry Grove Marsh where guests enjoy fishing and crabbing. The park provides foot access to the inlet and a boardwalk was added to maintain important marsh habitat.
The City of NMB encourages physical fitness and connecting with others through trails and open spaces. Situated throughout the NMB Park & Sports Complex are three trails and a meadow. The Lake Trail is 1.1 miles around a lake which provides walkers the opportunity to view the riders at the Shark Wake Park, and the adventure seekers on the zip lines from the Go-Ape Tree Top Adventure.
At the center of the Sports Complex is the twelve acre open area, McLeod Seacoast Meadow. This grassy, open area is available for general recreation activities as well as special events. The meadow is a great area for family picnics, relaxation, or a multitude of other recreation activities. It is surrounded by a half-mile walking path which is used daily by residents and visitors.
Also in the Sports Complex, is the 2.5 mile McLeod Seacoast Nature Trail, set to open this fall. This trail takes you through a forest area filled with lush vegetation and a variety of birds and animals.
These City of NMB trails and areas are currently sponsored by local banks and medical centers. The sponsorships help to preserve, protect, maintain, and support these natural places while providing businesses the opportunity to get involved in promoting an active lifestyle in the community.
Trails are essential to all cities, and the City of North Myrtle Beach will continue to preserve and maintain these walking paths and open areas for all to enjoy. Whether it is a stroll around a lake, or a quiet hike in the woods, these amenities provide people the opportunity to enjoy the diverse environment and the natural beauty of our city.
