South Carolina's Cross-State Trail
The Palmetto Trail is South Carolina’s only cross-state trail and one of only 16 in the country. When fully complete, it will stretch approximately 500 miles from the mountains of Oconee County to the Intracoastal Waterway in Charleston County. In between the mountains and the coast, the trail passes through the Piedmont and Fall line, lakes, and numerous fascinating historical sites.
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Updates
July 18, 2025
Want to make a difference for the trail? Grab some swag! Every purchase helps us build, maintain, and rebuild the trail.
June 27, 2025
How the Palmetto Trail Spans South Carolina’s Landscapes
Popular Passages
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Awendaw Passage
Enjoy lovely views of the marsh along Awendaw Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway at the coastal terminus of the Palmetto Trail.
Eastatoe Passage
This short but spectacular Passage offers access to trout fishing in Eastatoe Creek, as well as the chance to cross two suspension bridges.
Peak to Prosperity Passage
Watch for eagles, otters and turtles from the spectacular railroad trestles that cross the Broad River and Crims Creek throughout this family-friendly passage.
LIKE THE SMELL OF DIRT?
We offer numerous ways for you to engage with our organization. Opportunities include one-time volunteering, becoming a passage monitor, or joining the Palmetto Conservation Corps. Discover how you can get started and find a role that suits your interests and availability.
Get Involved
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My trail buddies and I all made a commitment to do the Palmetto Trail together every Tuesday. We made a spreadsheet to keep track of everything. We had a great time exploring and seeing everything the trail has to offer. The boardwalks, landmarks, State parks, mountains, and everything in between. This is a great way to see the state! Go out and explore!
Telena Lander
Hiker
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Hiking on the Palmetto Trail has gotten me out to see all that our wonderful state has to offer in the outdoors, and it’s not anything you’d see from the interstates or major highways.
Linda Killinger
Hiker
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My favorite passage is the Blue Wall Electric Coop – I love the mountains! But no matter what trail I am on, I am constantly amazed by the incredible amount of work that goes into creating and maintaining them. Every time I see beautiful stone steps, a new boardwalk, or even a downed tree removed from the trail, I know that someone has put in long hours so that the rest of us can enjoy the trail.
Jeanne Bridges
Hiker
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From hiking this trail, I’ve learned this state is remarkable in its diversity – from flat terrain to intense elevation gains; from thorny brambles to mystical fairy trails; and alligator-filled lakes and swamps to crystal clear mountain views that go on forever.
Jan Trent
Hiker
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It is my pleasure to assist in creating the Palmetto Trail. The wide range of support for the project demonstrates that South Carolinians from each part of the state can work together on common projects. Connecting this state through a nature trail is an excellent initiative.
Governor Carroll A. Campbell, Jr
October 11, 1994