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We will spend the first day in the Wambaw Wilderness. This
river system moves beneath 1,000-year-old bald cypress trees and is home to spectacular
birds such as white ibis, blue heron, and the prothonotary warbler. This system is part of
a larger federal tract of land called the Francis Marion National Forest. This spot is 10
miles inland, yet still influenced by the tides. In April migratory birds will be making
their journey through the area as we paddle our way beneath the Red Maple and Cypress
which will be in full leaf. Our second day we will have a glimpse of terns, dolphins and sea turtles as we kayak on the Intracoastal Waterway and through saltwater marshes. We will also learn of the history of the area from the times of the Shell Mound Builders, who piled oyster shells in heaps along the bank; through times of the rice plantations, to rivers of today. We’ll kayak past Barrier Islands blessed with wildlife on our way to touch the ocean. Our professional guide on our adventure will be Kathie Livingston. Kathie has been a professional naturalist for the last 15 years and now runs her own outfitting business. She lives in the heart of the Francis Marion Forest and enjoys sharing all the secrets of the area she knows so well and will guide us to places dear to her heart. A coastal home on Jeremy Creek, in the historical seaside
village of McClellanville, will be our refuge at night with its warm fireplaces and cozy
ambiance. The beautiful views from the windows of this gracious home brings sights of
fishing boats, pelicans, ancient live oak trees with Spanish moss blowing in the balmy sea
breeze. The big screened in porch with swings and rocking chairs will bring us together in
the evening to recount our stories of the day. A massage therapist will be After knowing the natural treasures and gems of the low country, we will spend a day in the city of Charleston. There are numerous activities and opportunities. There is an open-air market that houses hundreds of local vendors and artists; the historical battery area; and of course the carriage rides for the real history enthusiasts and pineapple park for enjoying the sun. There is the new sea aquarium to enlighten us. We can choose our own destinations of the day. Without a doubt Charleston is one of the most unique areas in all of the country with an enjoyable charm. In the late afternoon we’ll do a beach walk on the Isle of Palms and enjoy dinner at Coconuts Joe’s overlooking the ocean, a fun place to celebrate with sand on your feet. |
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| I do not want you to miss this adventure with good Earth Touch Souls. Please come share this experience with a group of great energy. If you find this experience to be less than I promised then …. Well… that is impossible… just come and see and you will be charmed. The dolphins, loggerheads, pelicans, heron and all the other good animal spirits are there to greet us. |
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Wambaw Creek Wilderness
Blackwater Swamp Tour - The Wambaw Wilderness Area is a protected
Blackwater swamp riverine ecosystem in the Francis Marion National Forest. Nestled in the
Coastal plain of South Carolina, it's ecology reflects the geology of the rice era. Rice
canals and earthen dikes elude to it's tidally influenced blackwaters. Giant Bald Cypress
trees estimated to be over 1,000 years old line the banks of the upper section. Paddlers
will twist and turn through these waters once used by the Santee Indians and the
Plantations to discover a Subtropical forest abundant with wildlife.  All seasons offer tranquility and beauty unmatched in the South Carolina low country. Spring blooms line the banks with Swamp Dogwood, Arrowwood, Wild Swamp Rose, Cherokee Rose, Honeysuckle and Wild Jasamine. Prothonotary warblers, herons, ibis and egrets nest and feed in the area enlightening visitors with their presence. Occasional alligators can be seen basking in the sun while river otter and giant salamanders pop their heads up inviting paddlers in a game of chase! Summer offers a vibrant green, cool shaded canopy and relief from the noon day sun. Fall thrives with crimson sweetgum, auburn cypress, vibrant red maple and brilliant yellows of water ash trees. Winter time paddling offers protection from the coastal shore winds and a stillness that brings peace to the paddlers ears as the animals rest in dormancy. One of South Carolinas best kept secrets is the Wambaw Wilderness Kayak and Canoe Trail. It offers 9 miles of pristine, protected paddling. Beginners are welcome as the current is minimal and forgiving in both directions. Nature Adventures is a permitted Outfitter in the National Forest. Our Naturalist Guides are experienced, certified by the American Canoe Association, First Aid/CPR current, and are University Degreed in Environmentally related fields. They will interpret all of the flora and fauna and give our paddlers an occasional taste of edible plants as they paddle along. |
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Saltwater Marsh and Barrier
Islands Tour -  This
wonderful salt water tour brings our paddlers a variety of interests. We start out
paddling in the quaint Shrimping, Crabbing and Fishing village of historic McClellanville.
We will paddle past the shrimp boats on Jeremy Creek and meander through the
Saltmarshes of the Cape Romaine Wildlife Refuge. From here we will stop and explore an
ancient Coastal Plain Indian Ceremonial Shellmound dating back to 4,000 years ago.
Paddling on we will continue along the back side of the barrier islands of the refuge and
will explore the abandoned rice fields of the Santee Coastal Wildlife Reserve. Over 300
species of birds have been identified at the Reserve with abundant food resources and
nesting rookeries for ibis, herons, pelicans, bald eagles, osprey, anhingas, woodstorks,
swallow-tailed kites and other endangered species.
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| Nature Adventures Guides are requested by environmental conservation organizations to lead their tours. Listed by National Geographic's Adventure Magazine as the areas outfitter to contact, (July 2001), and great reviews by Conde Nast Traveller, revealing "Truth in Travel", (January 2001). |
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What to bring and wear
-  Temperatures in the Coastal Plain of South
Carolina during Spring are generally in the
mid 70's to 80's. Morning tours can start off cool in the 50's so we recommend relaxed,
comfortable, layered clothing of spandex, fleece, nylon or even polyester. Cotton is not
recommended as it retains water and cold temperatures against your body. Shorts are fine
with a spare pair of lightweight "wind" pants. Short sleeves layered with a long
sleeve (optional jacket). Shoes that can get a little "muddy" and wet. "Wet
shoes or boots" are perfect, however, wool socks with teva type sandals can also be
worn. Please make sure your sandals have a heel strap and do not come off easily. Gloves are optional, however are often not needed from late March - October. We recommend seal-skin or wetsuit type gloves if you have them. Hats with a string attachment, sunscreen, mild gnat and mosquito repellant and "croakies" to hold your glasses on. If you don't have a croakie, please bring a piece of string for attachment. Anyone allergic to bees, pollen, or other things, please bring your own preventative choice of medicines. Always bring a "recloseable" container of water or gatorade. Snacks are helpful too, however all "shells" from nuts and packaging must be taken back with your person. No excess food or beverage "dumping" is allowed. Optional equipment: Cameras and binoculars are welcome, however we can not be responsible for damage or loss. Oh, we also ask that you bring a positive and friendly smile as well!... Thanks! |
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North Carolina
Mountain Adventure - Spend 7 Fun filled, wonderful adventurous
days, Kayaking, Hiking and exploring western North Carolina in the
Southern Appalachian Mountains! Nestled among the Blue Ridge Appalachians
and the Smoky Mountains near Cashiers and Highlands, this adventure will
change your life! TOUCH THE EARTH ADVENTURES
teams up with Nature Adventures Kayak & Canoe
Outfitters for an unmatched adventure! Professional Naturalist,
Kathie Livingston of Nature Adventures and Mimi Morrison of Touch The
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Fee: $1,100.00 per person and includes:
Meals catered by *Nutritious Adventures* - lots of organic and unique delicious food! |
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TOUCH THE EARTH ADVENTURES
presents the Edisto River Trip May 29th
- June 1st (Thursday - Sunday). Spend 2 wonderful days kayaking on the
longest free-flowing blackwater river east of the Mississippi! Once occupied
by the Native American tribe, the "Edisto", the river still reflects what
they saw thousands of years ago! Sleep overnight in a cozy cabin on the
river with campfire, guitar music and drumming! Beginners Welcome!
Professionally guided kayak tours by Nature
Adventures - ACA Certified Kayak Instructors & University Degreed
Naturalists. Food by Nutritious Adventures - $350
Includes:
Note: BYO Beverages |
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available for anyone who wants additional indulgences.
The refuge and reserve encompass over 53,000 acres of pristine, undeveloped land.
It is one of the richest and most abundant wildlife areas in the United States. As we
paddle during the spring and summer months, it is not uncommon to have bottle-nosed
dolphins and loggerhead sea turtles accompany us. Tranquility, adventure and exploration
await visitors fulfilling all of their senses of wonderful smells, sights and sounds.
Protected by the barrier islands, this tour is welcome for beginners. Our guides assure
safety and provide and unmatched interpretation of the flora, fauna and cultural history
of the area. 
Earth
Adventures have been conducting kayaking and hiking expeditions for over 15
years. Together, they will lead you on journeys to explore the flora, fauna
and treasures of the surrounding area. Many of their journey's have been
publicized and have repeat clientele, yearly. All lodging, arrangements and
most meals are included for your ease. All you have to do is show up! Leave
your worries behind, relax and Touch the Earth for 7 fun filled
wonderful days!
