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Print Friendly MapThere are 8 lanes of vehicular traffic on the Arthur Ravenel Bridge over the Cooper River. Thanks to a persistent citizen-led advocacy effort, walkers, joggers and cyclists can travel safely along the same bridge, along a dedicated path called Wonders' Way. The 12-foot wide paved path has separate lanes for hiking and biking. The slope as you ascend to the bridge might be a bit of a challenge, particularly if the wind is not in your favor. However, your reward comes at the top of the bridge, where users can expansive views of the vessels on the Cooper River, the Charleston peninsula and in the distance, Folly Beach. Benches and water fountains are provided at each end of the trail.
The trail is named for Garret Wonders, a cyclist who was killed in a bike-car collision.
In Mount Pleasant, park at the Mt. Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park (99 Harry M. Hallman Jr Blvd).
Even though they are 4 lines of traffic, 2 for pedestrians and 2 for cyclists, the pedestrians don’t pay attention and often wander or intentionally move in to the bike lines. I ran in to a jogger in the wrong lane going downhill, I had my hands on the breaks, but there was no avoiding this collision and I know I am not the only one who has had this problem.
Trail is on the south side of the bridge well separated from traffic with a low concrete wall. The views of Charleston and the harbor are well worth the gradual climb to the center of the bridge. Safe parking and modern restrooms are available at the Mount Pleasant Visitors Center in the park at the east end of the bridge. You can extend the ride by riding the sidewalk and streets south to the South Carolina Aquarium and Ft. Sumter visitors center, just stay with the streets closest to the harbor to minimize traffic.
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