After a week of winter weather, meteorologists expect Lowcountry to end the year with exceptionally warm temperatures.
And South Carolina State Parks folks are encouraging people to take advantage of the warm weather to go outside and go hiking.
Jonathan Lamb, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Charleston, said temperatures on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day could reach the mid-1970s – about 15 degrees above normal for this time of year.
The temperature will be perfect for spending time outdoors and in nature. South Carolina State Parks will once again participate in the national First Day Hiking program on January 1st. Twenty-five state parks will be open for self-guided hikes this year. And special activities, games and prizes will be available for children.
The First Day Hikes program aims to provide a means for individuals and families to welcome the new year outdoors, exercising and connecting with nature.
In the Charleston area, Charleston Towne Landing, Colonial Dorchester, Edisto Beach State Park and Hampton Plantation are participating in the outdoor initiative. Last year, people were able to go for guided hikes by rangers along the trails. But because of COVID-19, people are invited to take self-guided walks at their own pace. Groups of 10 or less are allowed in some parks.
Dawn Dawson-House, a spokeswoman for the agency, said she hoped people would still enjoy the program, even with changes this year.
“We think we have joined the rest of the country thinking it is a great way to start the new year with an invigorating outdoor tour,” said Dawson-House. “And as long as people wear masks and social distance and stay safe, this should be a great exercise for everyone.”
First-day hikes are one of the most popular events in South Carolina’s state parks every year. Most hikes are less than 3 miles long and are considered easy or moderate.
Dawson-House said that most state parks charge admission fees ranging from $ 3 to $ 8 per person. Visit southcarolinaparks.com for more information on individual parks.
Those planning to visit the parks should be aware of the chance of severe storms late Friday night, New Year’s Day, when a cold front is due to arrive in the state. Lamb said it was too early to define the details, but if there is bad weather, the main concerns will be the damaging and possible tornadoes.