# 20 Durham Creek / Back River — Rated: Moderate, 7.8 Miles

Click Here for Downloadable Durham Creek / Back River Trail Guide

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Summary: The Back River is accessed from Durham Creek near Cypress Gardens. You’ll paddle beside tall grasses, and forestation that is a mix of pine, cypress, sweet gum, hardwoods, red cedar and river birch. In warmer months, the banks are lined with flowering water lilies. The waterway is home to wood ducks, herons, anhingas, and osprey. On the upper creek, you may even spot a white tailed deer.

Difficulty: Moderate, only due to distance

Distance: 7.8 miles, round-trip

Time: 3 – 4 hours

Crowds: Light. You’re almost guaranteed to see boaters/anglers in Durham Creek, but the Back River is not frequented.

Boat Type: Kayaks or canoes 10 feet or longer. Paddle boards are not recommended.

Put In / Take Out: Durham Creek Landing (note: some mapping/GPS applications call this “Cypress Gardens Boat Ramp”), 3000 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner, SC 29461. GPS: 33.057584, -79.957782 or 33°03’27.3”N, 79°57’28.0”W

Fees/Permits: None

Current: Negligible, generally south direction

Tidal Influence: Yes, tide is approximately 1.5 hours behind Charleston Harbor tide table

Precautions: Motorized boats go up and down Durham Creek. Most boaters will slow down and yield to paddlers, but keep a watchful eye.

Water Level: This Blueway paddle trail is approximately 2 hours behind the Charleston tide. This can affect your effort paddling the creek. Charleston Tide Chart, click HERE.