Hiking 10 miles on the colorful Palmetto Trail Wateree Passage in the Fall, SC

We set out to hike the Palmetto Trail Wateree Passage on November 26, 2024. Located in the Sandhills of South Carolina, this trail offered a unique combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and the serenity of autumn .

The Palmetto Trail Wateree Passage is a section of the larger Palmetto Trail, a 500-mile path that crosses the state of South Carolina from the mountains upstate to the sea in the Lowcountry. The Wateree passage stretches approximately 11.4 miles, winding through picturesque landscapes that showcase South Carolina’s diverse ecology. From lush hardwood forests to serene wetlands, this trail provides a window into the region’s rich natural heritage.

As you hike, you’ll also encounter remnants of historical landmarks, including old railroad trestles and signs that tell stories of the area’s past. Our hike was an easy 10 miles roundtrip, mostly on boardwalks and bridges. We took our time to photograph the landscapes while enjoying the fall scenery. About four miles into the trail, we came across the pylons of the old railroad. You can see them in the video below. As I walked slowly, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of disbelief, imagining that this peaceful, quiet trail we were exploring was once a hub of bustling activity 150 years ago.

A Historical glance

The passage traverses land that had been inhabited for thousands of years. Native American tribes relied on the Wateree river for sustenance and trade. The railroad along the Wateree Passage was part of a historic line that played a vital role in South Carolina’s transportation and economic development during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The passage goes through sites connected to the Civil War. A sign on the trail tells the story of Union General Potter who in April 1865, ordered the destruction of 200 locomotive cars found along this passage from the Manchester, Wilmington and South Carolina Railroads because they were loaded with munitions and supplies for the Confederate Army. Another sign tells about the once prosperous now defunct town of Manchester which was a center for shipping cotton and rice to Charleston.

How to reach the Palmetto Trail Wateree Passage Trailhead?

We started from the new trailhead on highway 601 across from the intersection with Bluff Rd about 2.5 miles south of the old trailhead parking lot on Farmstead Rd. You will note a sign indicating the parking lot location (see photo below).

I’d recommend this hike in the fall or winter when it is too cold for mosquitoes which are abundant in this area. Be on the alert for wildlife. With the exception of a golden silk orb-weaver and a Cottonmouth snake sunning on a trestle -who did not appreciate our approach, we did not encounter any of what others have reported including river otters, deer, rabbits, osprey, eagle, etc.

Hiking the Palmetto Trail Wateree Passage in the fall is a fun experience that combines the best of nature, history, and tranquility. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual adventurer, this trail offers something for everyone. So lace up your boots, grab your gear, and immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of autumn in South Carolina.

References AllTrails, Palmetto Trail web page