Press Release
Kick off the new year with fresh air and family-friendly fun on a First Day Hike in South Carolina State Parks. More than 40 ranger-led hikes are scheduled across the state, with most parks offering half-mile to 3-mile guided adventures for all ages and skill levels.
“Whether you're an Ultimate Outsider with all 47 state parks under your belt, or if you've never set foot in a state park, plan to spend more time enjoying fresh air, open skies and some of the most beautiful landscapes in South Carolina in 2022,” said state parks director, Paul McCormack. “South Carolina State Parks offer an adventure for everyone. After the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, a First Day Hike is a chance to unplug, de-stress, recharge – and maybe even learn something new while enjoying the natural beauty of the Palmetto State.”
For the park enthusiasts who want to visit as many parks as they can on January 1st, you can squeeze in four hikes by following the First Day Dash schedule:
- Start the day at 9 am with a hike on the 1.25-mile Interpretive Trail at Lake Warren State Park
- Head north to the Battle of Rivers Bridge State Historic Site for an easy 1-mile hike on the Battlefield Trail at 11 am
- Cruise over to Barnwell State Park for a 1.5-mile hike along the Dogwood Nature Trail at 1 pm
- Finally, finish your day on the 1.5-mile Jungle Trail at Aiken State Park at 3 pm
Other First Day Hikes include a wildflower walk at Oconee Station State Historic Site, stepping into Revolutionary War history on a walk at the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site, or hunting for fossils and shells during low tide at Edisto Beach State Park. Find the full schedule of First Day Hikes here.
Guided First Day Hikes are included with park admission and are a New Year's Day tradition in state parks all over the country. All participating hikers will receive an official First Day Hike sticker.
First Day Hikes will also jumpstart a new initiative in South Carolina State Parks. Beginning January 1, use #StepsInSCStateParks to share your walking, hiking or other active adventures any time you're visiting a park. The year-long promotion aims to encourage more visitors to get moving in South Carolina State Parks.
Other events happening at parks around the state on January 1 include a First Day 5K at Charles Towne Landing. If you want to start your new year off with a splash and support a good cause, participate in the Pelican Plunge at Hunting Island or the Paris Plunge at Paris Mountain. Pre-registration is required for the 5K and plunges.
