WaterWays Township announces the opening of the Cottenham Nature Trail, a back-country multi-purpose trail system for the master-planned community’s bikers and pedestrians.

The five-mile trail begins at RidgeWood Central Park just inside the RidgeWood Park neighborhood and meanders throughout the 2,300-acre community and its adjacent 2,000 acres of state-owned wildlife management areas.

“Nature trails are an essential part of any healthy, outdoor recreational environment, which is why a trail system has always been a part of our community infrastructure master plan,” said Ron Lamm, WaterWays Township project manager. “This trail system serves to demonstrate our commitment to preserve the natural uniqueness of this special place while providing an additional amenity that encourages our residents to get outside and explore the community and its many recreational opportunities.”

From the trail’s beginning, explorers can discover ancient oak canopies, coastal wetlands, stunning marshes and wildlife native to the area as they trek through the diverse low country environments and enjoy the natural beauty of the community.

Points of interest throughout the trail system include an ancient archeological site for the original Cottenham Plantation residence that dates back to the late 1800s, as well as historic overlooks like Arrowhead Point, Fort McAllister, Ossabaw Island, Sandy Bluff and Wassaw Island.

Additionally, scenic marsh areas showcasing the pathway to the Atlantic Ocean are spotlighted at specific venues throughout the five-mile journey. Picnic spots, fishing areas and canoe and kayak launch sites are also situated along the trail to encourage visitors to make a day out of their excursion.

The developers of WaterWays Township, Fletcher Management Company, have created trail markers that inform travelers about historical sites and other points of interest throughout the trail system as well as future plans for the community. Trail maps with additional information are available along the trail as well as the WaterWays Township Information Center on the corner of Highway 144 and Oak Level Road.

For more information, please view the Cottenham Trail Guide.