Myrtle Beach is known for its coastal charm and buzzing boardwalk, but just a short shift from the shoreline, GTS Theatre offers a surprising gateway to outdoor adventures that blend culture with nature. The area around the theatre isn’t just a place for performances—it acts as a launchpad for hikes and explorations that showcase South Carolina’s natural character with a practical edge.

Begin your day with a walk along the Forestbrook Trail, a 3.5-mile loop that demands moderate endurance with a steady elevation gain of roughly 350 feet. The trail’s firm dirt paths weave through quiet pine groves, where the trees stand firm and the breeze plays through the needles like a quiet conversation. For those ready to push a bit further, connections to the Tidal Creek Trail offer an additional 2 miles of shoreline views and brackish wetlands that dare you to pause and listen to the call of ospreys diving below.

GTS Theatre itself frequently organizes guided nature walks and outdoor yoga sessions, harnessing the energy of the environment to enhance your experience. These activities are curated to connect you with the fierce independence of the local landscape—the river currents, the rustling foliage reacting to each passerby.

To prepare, pack lightweight hiking shoes with good traction for sandy and occasionally uneven sections. Hydration is vital; South Carolina’s subtropical climate means temperatures climb quickly, especially from late spring through summer. Aim for morning or late afternoon to hike—when sun and heat bow to cooler, quieter moments.

For photographers, early morning light skims the marsh grasses with a golden hue, while dusk sets the scene for dramatic silhouettes against the horizon. Look for the lesser-known Ponderosa Overlook, a small outcrop just west of the theatre grounds, where panoramic views open up over the wetlands and distant ocean beyond.

Beyond the physical demands, the experience here asks for respect. You are engaging with a landscape that’s fiercely itself, with shifting tides and wildlife rhythms that push back against disruption. Leave no trace, follow marked paths, and allow yourself to hear the whispers of the woods and the daring rush of nearby waterways.

Finish your adventure with a visit to the theatre’s outdoor amphitheater—a place where culture and nature naturally meet. This combination of physical activity, stunning landscapes, and artistic energy makes GTS Theatre’s outdoor offerings an inspired escape for adventurers of all levels.