Cumberland Island Treasures

Where would you most likely look to find a rare treasure? 

“Treasure comes in many forms.” (S.A. Rodriguez)

I reason that some of you would picture a treasure hunt as a clue driven strategy to locate a collection of valuable objects or riches for some eager explorer to find. But as the “St. Mary’s” ferry landed on remote Cumberland Island, Georgia at the beginning of our latest road trip, a different kind of treasure captured our interest. For we’d be hiking  for over five hours on our own across its southerly portion in search of rare wild horses that still populated the island. Understand that these treasured feral animals living there today can be genetically traced back to the original horse herds that were brought to the island during Spanish and British exploration of this land in the mid 18th century. 

So I point out for you with accompanying photos some key clues to follow before, during, and after this treasure hunt. For like us, you might celebrate at the end of this arduous effort being witness to close up horse encounters by sitting on the beach for them to come.

Start your day by purchasing a round trip ferry ticket at the St. Mary’s Visitor Center for an early departure and return on days of cooler weather. Mosquito repellent would also be recommended.

When you get off the boat at the first dock landing, check out your map of the island layout. Then notice where the crowds are heading. Let them pass and then make your way straight on from the arrival area. 

Take the right fork ahead lined with oak trees on both sides of your path. You’ll come to the Dungeness Mansion ruins site built in the late 19th century. Walk around its front side for some interesting photo opportunities. 

To the back of the mansion, you’ll get a nice view of the St. Mary’s River. If you walk to the shoreline you’ll notice hordes of tiny spider looking crabs scurrying around the mushy soil. Be careful you don’t slip on these muddy conditions. 

Head back toward  the mansion and you’ll see a sign pointing you to turn  right toward the beach heading slightly uphill on a sandy trail. Notice some lush  green meadows whereby horses  might be grazing in the distance. 

A wood plank boardwalk appears on your right. Take it to cross over some swampland conditions. You begin to hear the sounds of the ocean waves at this point of your hike.

Almost there! Vast sand dunes overlook the beach which you must cross.

As you descend to the beach, your treasure awaits you. A herd of wild ponies might graze on sea grass below the dunes.  They appear seemingly unafraid of humans. I recommend you act quietly as I did and just plop down on the sand within 10-20 feet to watch them. 

When done, head back to the boat by backtracking the same route you earlier had taken. But don’t be late or you might risk being stranded on the island!

Source:

https://exploregeorgia.org/city/cumberland-island