109

87

65

43

21

Imagine a trail across South Carolina that you can walk or bicycle from mountains to sea. That’s the Palmetto Trail.

The Palmetto Trail is an excellent way to explore the state’s history and enjoy its natural beauty. Whether you’re a Trail newbie or seasoned user, this brochure is a useful introduction to or reminder of outdoor recreation safety and etiquette, as well as Trail history and favorite hikes.

© 2014, Palmetto Conservation Foundation

Palmetto Conservation Foundation received a grant to publicize the Palmetto Trail and educate users from the Recreational Trails Program in cooperation with the South Carolina State Trails Program and the Federal Highway Administration.

1

T H E P A L M E T T O T R A I L T O D A Y

The Palmetto Trail is South Carolina’s premier cross-state trail for hiking, backpacking, cycling, mountain biking, camping, and other active outdoor recreation.

The Trail provides free public access to about 350 miles of passages across 14 counties from the Blue Ridge mountains to the Lowcountry coast. The Trail connects public lands including five state parks, two national forests, two Revolutionary War battlefields, county recreation areas, and the U.S. military post at Fort Jackson. Trail users enjoy the diversity of South Carolina’s natural beauty—landscapes and waterways, flora and fauna—as well as rich cultural heritage and rural and urban life.

Built as a series of passages, the Trail is accessible for day trips, weekend jaunts, and longer treks. Passages feature wilderness and backcountry trails, urban bikeways, greenways, rails-to-trail conversions, city sidewalks, and even the steps of the State Capitol. Trail passages are typically under 15 miles, but range in length from 1.3 to 47 miles. Difficulty varies from easy to strenuous. Some passages cross through wildlife management areas where seasonal hunting is allowed.

The scenic Palmetto Trail, one of 16 cross-state trails in the United States, is recognized regionally and nationally as a visitor-friendly attraction. The Trail offers plenty to explore and to inspire people of all ages and interests.

2

T H E P A L M E T T O T R A I L Y E S T E R D A Y

More than 20 years ago, Palmetto Conservation Foundation (PCF) and a small group of visionaries imagined a trail stretching across South Carolina from mountains to sea, and they went to work. In 1994, the Palmetto Trail became a reality when PCF broke ground on the Lake Moultrie Passage in Berkeley County. This first passage was built on land owned by Santee Cooper and constructed by experts and amateurs alike, many of whom were volunteers. The popular 24-mile passage rings the northern and eastern lakeshore, offering spectacular views of Lake Moultrie.

3

T H E P A L M E T T O T R A I L T O M O R R O W

When complete, the Palmetto Trail will be a continuous, maintained, off-road trail of more than 500 miles from the Upstate, through the Midlands, to the Lowcountry. Plans also call for development of the Trail as a spine supporting a network of trail spurs and connecting other greenways and trails in the state. The goals:

• to improve public health and well-being through active outdoor recreation• to link historical, natural, and community resources statewide

In April 2014 with support from The Boeing Company, PCF unveiled a comprehensive master plan with a 10-year vision for completing and expanding the Trail. The master plan was developed, reviewed, and endorsed by key leaders, including the director of State Parks and Recreation, local and state government officials, national forest and park rangers, planning specialists, and—of course—Trail users. Six public meetings also gathered valuable information.

The master plan provides a strong vision with broad support for the Trail’s future. PCF is filling that future with exciting programs and events that will energize people to use the Trail and support conservation.

Find out more about how you can be involved in this amazing project by visiting PCF online at: palmettoconservation.org On social media use #FinishTheTrail to connect with others and learn more about the Palmetto Trail:

For questions about the Trail, PCF membership, or our projects and programming, email: info@palmettoconservation.org

@PCFTweet /palmettoconservation

4

P A L M E T T O C O N S E R VA T I O N F O U N D A T I O N

Founded in 1989, PCF is dedicated to conserving natural and cultural resources, preserving history, and promoting active outdoor recreation and education. PCF is a statewide nonprofit organization with offices in Columbia and Glendale (Spartanburg County). Membership dues, grants, and tax-deductible gifts provide financial support for the Palmetto Trail and other PCF programs.

The Palmetto Trail is PCF’s largest and best-known project. Supporting Trail use, the Glendale Outdoor Leadership School, another PCF program, teaches how-to courses on rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, and wilderness medicine.

For more information, visit the PCF website and Facebook page.

F U N D I N G

The Palmetto Trail is constructed, expanded, and maintained with resources and funding from countless individuals and about 100 institutions. The latter include local, state, and national for-profit businesses and corporations, nonprofit foundations and organizations, government agencies, and education institutions. On behalf of the citizens of South Carolina, PCF acknowledges and appreciates their generosity.

T H A N K Y O U !To join the Palmetto Trail Legacy Campaign and make individual and corporate values tangible, please contact PCF.

6

STUDY UP. Look over your map before leaving home, familiarize yourself with the route, and carry the map and a compass on the trail. Carry the map in a plastic baggie to keep it rain-, sweat-, and dirt-free.

PLAN AHEAD. Check the terrain difficulty, potential weather conditions, and for a longer trip, places to stop for water and supplies. Estimate how long your trip will take. Park and Forest Service rangers and PCF staff can help answer your questions.

LEARN. Before hitting the Trail, you should learn basic first aid and CPR (American Red Cross teaches these), map & compass skills, and basic survival skills (e.g., how to start and use fire safely). The Glendale Outdoor Leadership School offers SOLO Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and Wilderness First Responder (WFR) courses.

KNOW YOUR ABILITIES. Plan a hike that is suitable for everyone in your party and let the slowest hiker set the pace. Remember, a group is only as fast as the slowest person.

TELL A FRIEND YOUR PLAN. Leave your hike plan with someone back home. Tell them where you’re traveling, when you’re leaving, and when you expect to return. Call them when you get off the Trail.

HIKE WITH A FRIEND. Always have at least one other person with you, especially if you are traveling on low-traffic passages.

IDENTIFY YOURSELF. Carry a photo ID, insurance card, and credit card on the Trail in case of emergencies.

LEAVE NO TRACE.

(1) . Don’t create cairns, tree blazes, or any other signs to mark the Trail. PCF and its partners are responsible for appropriate Trail markers. Please report markers in disrepair to PCF.

(II) . Pack in empty bags for trash and pack out all waste — even biodegradable items such as apple cores and banana peels.

H I K E T H R O U G H H I S T O RY AT WAT E R E E

Hike the Wateree Passage in Sumter County and immerse yourself in both Revolutionary and Civil War history. On this 7.2-mile rail-trail, you’ll spot significant sites such as Sumter Junction and remains of the original Manchester Railroad tracks. The Passage crosses river bottomlands of Manchester State Forest into Poinsett State Park, known as the Mountains of the Midlands for its unique elevation changes and mountain-like scenery. The area is great for geocaching, and the rangers are especially knowledgeable and friendly. And plan for a good night’s sleep in Poinsett’s restored cabins, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (1933-42).

Good planning, proper gear, and attention to safety and weather help cultivate an enjoyable experience. Trail maps along with blazes and signs on the Trailhelp hikers and cyclists plan ahead and stay oriented. Free maps and descriptions are available to download from PCF’s website or by calling PCF. Most maps show detailed topography, elevation, and difficulty. The following Trail passages are some PCF staff favorites.

8

V I E W N AT U R E & C H A R M AT B LU E WA L L

The 14-mile Blue Wall Passage, which crosses pristine natural areas managed by The Nature Conservancy, is a treat for outdoor lovers and nature photographers. After hiking the 1,500-foot Blue Ridge Escarpment, stop in downtown Landrum for a rest. The charming town offers quaint antique shops and great eateries for the hungry hiker. For those not camping, nearby bed & breakfasts offer a comfy weekend escape.

T W O W H E E L T H E A W E N D A W

The 7-mile Awendaw Passage is an easy trip on foot, but perhaps even better on the two wheels of a mountain bike. Watch boats zoom past on the Intracoastal Waterway at Buck Hall Landing, and enjoy marsh vistas and wildlife. Stop at Sewee Outpost, a local favorite just off Highway 17, for lunch and any outdoor accessory you could ever want.

*

* MILES 1-6 EASY // MILES 6-12 MODERATE // MILES 12-14 STRENUOUS

9

P I C N I C O N P E A K T O P R O S P E R I T Y

Hike or mountain bike over 18 historic converted trestles on this popular rail-trail. Enjoy an innovative mobile cell phone tour along this section’s 10.8 miles to learn about the history and wildlife of the area. This passage is especially great for folks with four-legged hiking pals. Pack a picnic lunch and chow down under the shelters at the Alston trailhead, just steps away from the awe-inspiring Broad River Trestle.

B A C K P A C K I N T H E M O U N T A I N S

For the truly adventurous, a backpack trek on the Middle Saluda Passage is an excellent 13.9-mile challenge. Rustic campsites are available throughout the wildly beautiful Jones Gap State Park, one of the most scenic and remote areas in the state. Check out Rainbow Falls on one of the park’s loop trails or the nearby overlook at Caesars Head. Don’t forget to hang your bear bags!

10

S T R O L L B Y T H E C A P I T O L

The 7.5-mile Capital City Passage through Columbia begins at the Congaree River and ends at Fort Jackson. This urban passage guides you over the steps of the State Capitol, along the historic Horseshoe of the University of South Carolina, and through city parks and charming neighborhoods.

S H A R E S T O R I E S O N T H E C R O F T

The Croft Passage, at 12.6 miles through Croft State Park in Spartanburg County, shares war stories of Revolutionary battles, patriot victories, and a World War II training camp. You’ll also learn about the Spartan Militia District and other 18th-century history. A side trail will take you to the site of a 1902 resort hotel. The Croft accommodates hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.

11

SUSTAIN THE TRAIL. Walk through the mud or puddle and not around it. Widening the Trail by going around puddles and mud destroys wildlife habitat. Also, stay on the Trail around switchbacks. Cutting the corner is a bad idea, even if it looks easy.

DON’T BLOCK THE TRAIL. If hiking in a group or taking a break, don’t block the Trail, but allow others to pass easily.

YIELDING RIGHT OF WAY. Typically, downhill yields to uphill, but use common sense. Whichever, make sure to stop on a durable surface and avoid widening the Trail.

HIKE COURTEOUSLY. “Unplug” and experience the outdoors. Turn your cell phone or music down, if not off. Enjoy the sounds of nature and let others do the same.

DON’T FEED WILDLIFE. While many animals hide, others are not so shy. Feeding wild creatures disrupts their natural foraging habits.

DON’T TOSS YOUR TRASH, not even biodegradable garbage like banana peels and apple cores. Wild animals need wild, native foods. Further, no one wants to hike past your old orange peel or energy bar wrapper while it ever-so-slowly decomposes. If you pack it in, pack it out.

WHEN RELIEVING YOURSELF, move at least 200 feet away from the Trail and any water sources. Follow

“Leave No Trace” principles.

WHEN HIKING WITH A PET, keep it on a leash and under control. And remember to pack out pet waste.

LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND. The only souvenirs a hiker should take home are photographs, happy memories, and better health.

Adapted from American Hiking Society | Hiking Etiquette

12

For ongoing construction and Trail maintenance, PCF schedules workdays throughout the year. Volunteers work under the supervision of Trail coordinators with tools that PCF provides. Volunteers need no formal training or special tools, just smiles and a can-do attitude. The work is rewarding and friendships are a bonus.

See what’s happening on PCF’s website, Facebook page, and Twitter feed. To volunteer your time and enthusiasm, please email or call the PCF office.

Volunteers are awesome! They provide welcome assistance to PCF staff, who coordinate Trail development, construction, and maintenance, as well as other professionals who work on the Trail.

info@palmettoconservation.org // 803.771.0870

You

can

help

#Fi

nis

hth

e TRAIL

109

87

65

43

21 NAVIGATION. Trail map and compass

SUN PROTECTION. Sunscreen, sun-glasses, and a hat, even on cloudy days

EXTRA CLOTHING. Appropriate hike/bike clothing in layers for changing weather conditions

HYDRATION. Sturdy water bottles, CamelBak, or purification system

HIGH-ENERGY FOOD. Trail mix and granola bars — bring extra

FIRST AID KIT. Ready-assembled from an outfitter or DIY, the basics include:• gloves (nitrile is recommended)• treatment for blisters (moleskin)• adhesive bandages (various sizes)• several sterile gauze pads• adhesive 1” athletic tape• roller gauze/vet wrap• triangular bandage• tweezers & scissors• wound cleaning syringe (60cc)• pen & paper• empty zip top bag

ILLUMINATION. Flashlight or headlamp

FIRE. Waterproof matches, lighter, or fire starter kit

EMERGENCY SHELTER. Space blanket, tarp, or bivy sack

REPAIR KIT. Materials and tools to fix a pack, tent, shoes, bike or whatever (e.g., patch kits, duct tape, picture-frame wire, specialized tools, Swiss Army knife)

Adapted from Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills (8th ed.)

BE PREPARED. In addition to your map and compass, carry basic safety items: flashlight, whistle, and fire starters — even for a day hike. If you’re out later than planned, light is a must-have to see your map and where you’re walking. If lost, a whistle is more effective than your voice to call for help (three short bursts for SOS). Worst case, fire can signal help and a hot drink can prevent hypothermia.

CARRY FIRST AID. Inspect first aid/emergency kits and replace consumed items before hitting the trail for day hikes or longer treks. Always carry extra water and food.

STAY HYDRATED. It’s hard to drink too much water when you’re physically active. Without enough water, your body simply performs poorly. If you feel thirsty, you are already becoming dehydrated. Carry plenty of water or have the means to purify water on the trail.

BRING SNACKS. Banish hunger on the Trail with energy bars and dry fruit & nut mixes. These are great trail snacks — high in carbs and protein, and easy to carry. On a cold day, a thermos of hot soup or cocoa is a welcome treat. On a hot day, a frozen water bottle may still be icy at midday.

WEAR THE RIGHT CLOTHES. Trail conditions and microclimates are unpredictable, so come prepared. Appropriate footwear, socks, and adjustable layers of clothing, including rain gear, go a long way toward comfort and an enjoyable trek. A bandana has a thousand uses.

START EARLY. Avoid beginning hikes late in the afternoon as you may not finish before sundown. Navigating after dark is tricky. Unless you’re camping, most trails are closed to the public after sunset.

DON’T OVEREXERT YOURSELF. Especially in heat, take it slow and allow plenty of time to rest and drink water.

Leave what you find

722

Kin

g S

t. | C

olu

mb

ia, S

C 2

920

5

803.7

71.0870

Pal

met

toC

ons

erva

tio

n.o

rg@

PC

FTw

eet

/pal

met

toco

nser

vati

on

Respect the wildlife

Plan ahead and be prepared

Travel and camp on durable surfaces

Remain on designated trails

Dispose of waste properly

Pack in andpack out!

Respect private property

Always use fire responsibly

Be considerate of fellow trail users

Adapted from American Hiking Society: Hiking Etiquette

Minimum impact use of the Trail is in everybody’s best interest. Here are a few “unwritten” rules that can help make everyone’s hike more pleasant:

(scan for individual passage maps)

722 King St. | Columbia, SC 29205

803 . 7 7 1 . 0 870PalmettoConservation.org

THANK YOU