Few people in the Lowcountry realize the history behind one of the most visited spots in Mount Pleasant, or that there’s a trail here that leads to an overlook with amazing views. But this little-known overlook in South Carolina is worthy of a visit!
Welcome to a spot that used to be known as Hog Island!
Google/Glenn Hanna
It’s situated right at the confluence of the Cooper River and Shem Creek.
Google Maps And long, long ago it was an actual island. During the American Revolution, the Patriots actually sunk ships here to keep the British from sailing up the Cooper River. And during the Civil War, the Confederates placed mines in this channel to defend the area against Union ships.In more modern times, Hog Island was connected to the mainland by the spoils from dredging activities.
And then, in 1975, the area was annexed by the Town of Mount Pleasant and in 1976 it was developed and renamed Patriots Point.
Google/Glenn Hanna But the Town has stood by the area’s rich history and pertinent position in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.
It maintains this hidden and historic trail (the Hog Island Trail) that’s accessible from the Patriots Point complex.
Google/James Magarahan The observation deck is also courtesy of the Town.
And the trail, thankfully for those days when it’s scorching hot outside, is considerably short for the payoff.
Google/Glenn Hanna
Climb on up and have a look!
Google/Charles Shoe
From high atop the observation deck you’ll have a front row seat to the rich history of this land, as well as unobstructed views of the Charleston Harbor and beyond!
Google/Erick Bzovi
Visitors who walk around the observation deck can even hike all the way to the water.
Google/BC Preston
Hog Island may have been renamed to Patriots Point in 1975, but her prominence in local history and that gorgeous view are still very much alive.
Google/Chas Kuhn
Ever heard of Hog Island? What about this little known overlook in South Carolina?
Google/Glenn Hanna
Google Maps
And long, long ago it was an actual island. During the American Revolution, the Patriots actually sunk ships here to keep the British from sailing up the Cooper River. And during the Civil War, the Confederates placed mines in this channel to defend the area against Union ships.In more modern times, Hog Island was connected to the mainland by the spoils from dredging activities.
But the Town has stood by the area’s rich history and pertinent position in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.
Google/James Magarahan
The observation deck is also courtesy of the Town.
Google/Charles Shoe
Google/Erick Bzovi
Google/BC Preston
Google/Chas Kuhn
Read all about the U.S.S. Yorktown at Patriots Point – and how it’s reportedly one of the most haunted places in the South. While you’re here to hike to Hog Island, go check it out!
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Address: Hog Island Trail And Observation Deck, 1 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA
