The SC7 Expedition is once again exploring the state from the mountains to the sea, this year in April and May 2024! The name South Carolina 7 represents seven natural wonders in our state, including National Geographic-recognized ecological areas and historical sites such as the Jocassee Gorges, Sassafras Mountain, and the Chattooga River.
Kidding Around covered this epic month-long event in 2021; you can find everything about that year’s route in our article South Carolina’s Top 30 Beautiful Natural Spots! This year the team is following a similar path across the state, with a few new locations – including several in the Upstate.
What is the SC7 Expedition
The first SC7 expedition took place in July of 2020, following the Palmetto Trail across the state to highlight the ‘Carolina 7,’ seven geographic wonders unique to the Palmetto State. The purpose of the expedition was to bring attention to the natural marvels that need our protection, and the multitude of outdoor adventures that await us in our own backyard.
Along the way, the expedition discusses topics such as conservation, adult & childhood fitness, outdoor therapy, floodwater mitigation issues, and more. This year the SC7 will continue to include a “family expedition” aspect, and everyone is invited to join in on the fun of exploring the state that we call home – from the mountains to the sea!
Get Started on the SC7 Expedition
First things first: download your free copy of the 2024 SC7 Expedition Field Guide! A day-by-day handbook for this year’s expedition, it contains trail information, local places to see, and information on the various outings. Even if you’re not joining the expedition on the trail, the guide is a tremendous resource for exploring the various regions of South Carolina!
You can also download the SC7 Outdoor Adventure Book, perfect for kids who are joining in. The booklet has tons of information about our state, fun facts about wildlife, ecological principles, and so much more!
Next, check your calendar for the public participation days. The 2024 SC7 Expedition Field Guide has more information on how to participate, or you can follow along virtually through daily Facebook and Instagram videos.
The expedition will be in the Upstate the last week in April, though some of the Midlands locations can be done in a day trip from Greenville/Spartanburg, including the Enoree Passage of the Palmetto Trail, Congaree National Park, and Columbia.
2024 SC7 Key Events
April 22 – May 3, 2024: SC7 Earth Day Kick-off event statewide will happen on April 22, 2024. Hikes & adventures in the Upstate over the proceeding two weeks include the Chattooga River rafting, the Oconee Passage, Sassafras Mountain, Jocassee Gorges, Jones Gap State Park, Pickens Doodle Trail, downtown Greenville, the Swamp Rabbit Trail, the Cottonwood Trail, and the Mary Black Rail Trail.
April 22, 2024: Earth Day Kickoff Event!
Join Lt. Governor Pamella Evette, the South Carolina 7, and Palmetto Pride in a Statewide Litter Cleanup on Earth Day 2024. The county that picks up the most litter by weight will earn the SC Environmental Stewardship Award. For more information on the litter pickup and to get involved, contact Abbey Crocker
(abbey@scnhc.com).
April 27, 2024: Pickens Doodle Day! Join Easley residents in an exploration of the Doodle Trail, 7.5 miles of flat trail for hiking, biking, or walking. The event begins at 9 am at the Pickens trailhead: 409 E. Cedar Rock Street.
May 4, 2024: Enoree Passage Hike public participation day! The Palmetto Trail winds 10 miles through pine ridges and hardwood bottomlands of the Enoree. The public is invited to hike the second portion of the Enoree Passage, starting at Brickhouse Campground. Arrival at 8:30 am and the hike begins at 9 am.
SC7 Key Events in the Midlands
May 5th, 2024: Hike the Columbia Riverwalk, and the West Columbia Riverfront Park. Event begins at 3 pm, at which time the shuttle will leave from Savage Craft Ale Works to the trailhead. The hike length is 3.5 miles.
SC7 Key Events in the Lowcountry
May 11th, 2024: Join the SC7 team on a 4-mile beach walk, an out and back along the coast from Myrtle Beach State Park to Sunset Beach and back. The event begins at 9 am at Myrtle Beach State Park.
May 18th, 2024: Cooper River Bridge Hike. Hike the Cooper River Bridge with the Mayors of Charleston and Mount Pleasant! The event begins at 9 am, and participants coming from either side will meet the team in the middle of the bridge for a group photo opp.
The Adventure Continues
There is so much to do and see in South Carolina that it will take far longer than just a month to get to it all. And, while it is exciting to join an expedition to explore your way across the state, it can be just as thrilling to discover new places with your children and family.
It is our hope that the destinations featured here can serve as an outline to get you started, a framework for travel and exploration across the state!! Happy adventuring, South Carolina!
Follow the South Carolina 7 Expedition on Facebook South Carolina 7 | Facebook
SC7 on Instagram: South Carolina 7 (@sc7wonders)
Love the Outdoors?
Learn more about Things to Do Outdoors near Greenville, SC in our guide.