If there’s a single hiking experience you should have in your lifetime, it absolutely should be the Peak to Prosperity Passage in South Carolina. This scenic trail is part of the expansive Palmetto Trail, a former rail trail network that aims to stretch across 500 miles, with 350 miles already complete.
The Peak to Prosperity Trail spans just 10.8 miles, yet we believe it offers some of the most breathtaking vistas you’ll encounter along the entire network. It’s a remarkable journey through nature that showcases the stunning beauty of South Carolina’s landscape.
The journey starts in Alston, where you will traverse a historic railroad trestle that spans 1,100 feet over the beautiful Broad River.
The Peak to Prosperity passage features a total of 14 bridges that you’ll encounter while traversing this segment of the Palmetto Trail, leading you seamlessly from one end to the other.
As the title implies, there is an abundance of tunnels! You might find it challenging to count all the stunning tree-lined pathways encountered throughout this remarkable journey.
While tree tunnels and bridges are certainly breathtaking attractions, they are just a few highlights among many captivating sights and activities along the Peak to Prosperity Passage.
Numerous bridges feature stunning designs beneath them, and the Palmetto Conservation Foundation, which oversees the trail, has ensured that many of these areas are easily reachable for visitors.
As you embark on your 10.8-mile trek, you’ll traverse the remnants of a historic German settlement dating back to the 1730s. As you continue on toward the Pomaria region, take a moment to stop at a quaint local store where you can refresh yourself before concluding your journey at the trail’s end.
This segment of the Palmetto Trail has quickly become our favorite—at least for now. Could this be the year you decide to explore it?
Have you previously navigated this section of the state trail? We’d be eager to hear your thoughts!
The Alston trailhead of the Peak to Prosperity Passage is situated in Alston, directly across the Broad River from the town of Peak, South Carolina. In addition to Alston, there are two other trailheads along this scenic route: the Hope Station Trailhead and the Pomaria Trailhead. For further information about hiking in South Carolina and to find detailed directions to all three trailheads, visit the Palmetto Conservation website.