From the Mountains to the Sea
In today’s fast-paced world, more people are chasing the “next best adventure” in search of unforgettable experiences. As South Carolina’s largest trail project—and the only cross-state trail—the Palmetto Trail serves as a gateway to outdoor exploration. Stretching over 400 miles, this scenic route invites adventurers to experience the state’s diverse landscapes through hiking, biking, camping, and more, while fostering a deeper appreciation for South Carolina’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
WHERE IT BEGAN
In 1989, a small group of visionaries gathered around a kitchen table, inspired by South Carolina’s rich and diverse landscapes. With the goal of bringing more conservation efforts to South Carolina’s natural and cultural resources, they imagined a trail that would bring both awareness and appreciation to those characteristics of South Carolina. From the rugged mountains of the Upstate to the culture-rich swamps of the Lowcountry, the concept of a “Mountains to the Sea” trail was born.
In 1994, ground was broken on the first passage of what would become the Palmetto Trail—and the adventure officially began. Over the past 30 years, 32 trail passages have been etched into South Carolina’s history.
COUNTLESS ADVENTURES
The Palmetto Trail winds through fourteen counties, three national forests, six state parks, and numerous towns—from Awendaw on the Intracoastal Waterway to Mountain Rest in the Blue Ridge Mountains. With over 400 miles of trail, it offers countless opportunities for outdoor adventure, including hiking, biking, backpacking, camping, and more. Whether you're venturing out solo or with a group, the Palmetto Trail promises endless adventure for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.
PASSAGE GUIDE
Each passage of the Palmetto Trail offers unique characteristics, ensuring a fresh experience with every journey. Across 32 passages, hikers can enjoy the sweet scent of blooming Oconee Bells in the Upstate, take a scenic stroll through South Carolina’s capital city, or feel the salty breeze of the Intracoastal Waterway in the Lowcountry.
The trail is divided into three regions: nine passages in the Upstate, fifteen in the Midlands, and six in the Lowcountry, seamlessly connecting to offer a diverse outdoor experience across the state.
WHAT’S NEW
The Palmetto Trail continues to make history across South Carolina. On June 4, 2025, the trail celebrated the opening of its newest addition: the Boyd Passage. This 26-mile stretch connects the Capital City Passage to the Wateree Passage, completing a continuous route from Columbia to the coast. The project was three years in the making, and the result is nothing short of remarkable. Its success would not have been possible without the invaluable support of the Boyd Foundation and Boyer Construction, along with the dedication and hard work of the Palmetto Trail staff. It is a proud milestone to now offer hikers an uninterrupted journey from the Capital City to the Intracoastal Waterway—a total distance of 226.4 miles.
THE ADVENTURE CONTINUES…
The Palmetto Trail’s mission won’t be complete until the trail itself is finished. The same dedication and effort that brought it this far are still needed to see it through to the end. With just over 400 miles completed, the finish line is in sight—but there’s still important work ahead. Building a trail of this scale involves securing property agreements, funding, and countless hours of physical labor. Supporters can help bring the vision to life by donating or volunteering their time to the trail.