South Carolina’s state park system is featuring more than two dozen family hikes as part of a national effort to get people off its trails on January 1.
The ‘First Day Hikes’ program, organized by the National Association of State Park Directors, typically features experiences led by rangers. However, due to the spread of the coronavirus, this year’s hikes will be self-guided, according to a press release from the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism.
Some locations in South Carolina are also participating in the ‘Kids in Parks’ initiative, which calls on children to “explore the outdoors through activities, games and prizes,” according to the statement. In the Upstate area, Table Rock State Park and the Battle of Musgrave Mill State Historic Area are participating.
The trails chosen for the first day program are less than 3 miles long and cover easy terrain. The trails presented in the Upstate area are:
The admission price varies according to the park, as well as the opening hours. Check the planned destination using the links above for the latest information.
Do you want to walk for free, looking for a paved or smooth walkway, or just want to be closer to the city? Instead, try these easy tours:
- Lake Conestee Nature Preserve: Park at the north end near the dog park and playground, cross the bridge in a straight line and follow the boardwalk along the lake basin.
- Swamp rabbit trail: choose any section in Greenville County, but understand that it is likely to be busy in downtown Greenville and close to travelers’ rest on January 1.
- Hatcher Garden: The gardens and paths in Spartanburg are open from dawn to dusk.
- Doodle Trail: In Pickens or Easley? Experience a section of this 12-kilometer paved walkway.
Follow Ryan Gilchrest on Twitter at @ryangilchrest.