For the first time, Cumberland Island National Seashore in St Marys will allow motor vehicles in for the Lands and Legacies Tours.
On Aug. 11, the National Park Service will begin providing guided tours of Cumberland Island in passenger vans and open air trams to historic locations around the seashore.
“We are excited to start these tours," said Fred Boyles, superintendent of the island. “Many features of the island that are rarely seen by visitors will be more easily reached.”
Most motor vehicles are prohibited in the park, but a new congressional mandate will allow visitors to be more mobile throughout the island. Cumberland Island is only accessible by boat and has traditionally been an attraction for mostly hikers and bikers.
Federal legislation passed in 2004 requires a minimum of eight tours daily to the north end of the island.
“We started the compliance process and then made sure we had the adequate resources,” said John Fry, chief of resource management. “We didn’t have the funds before, but now everything is in place and ready to go.”
Some of the historic locations along the tour will be Plum Orchard Mansion (owned by the Carnegie family), Cumberland Wharf, and the Settlement, which includes First Baptist Church, where the late John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette were married in 1996. Tourists are likely to see the remains of 1884 Dungeness Plantation, another Carnegie mansion, as well as other attractions.
Cumberland Island is home to more than 9,800 acres of congressionally designated wilderness with rich wildlife, including wild horses.
Those planning to take the six-hour tour can make reservations by calling 912-882-4335, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reservations are strongly encouraged since space is limited on a daily basis. Park authorities say that the tour is physically demanding and visitors should plan accordingly.
The charge for the tour is $15 per person and $12 for seniors over the age of 62 and children under 16. This fee is in addition to the park entrance and ferry fee.
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