OUTDOOR
Hello kids! My name is Trek and I’ll be your nature guide. This Outdoor Adventure Book is your guide for the epic SC7 summertime expedition! I am so happy to have you along with me on this awesome experience!
-Trek
30 DAYS. ONE EPIC ADVENTURE. JOIN US DURING THE MONTH OF JULY AS WE EXPLORE THE AMAZING NATURAL WONDERS OF OUR GREAT STATE!
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We believe in educating through involvement. While we want you to get out in nature and have a good time, it’s very important that you follow the LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES. We want you to enjoy nature sustainably so that we and others can enjoy it forever!
CIPLE
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DISPOSE of WASTE PROPERLY TRAVEL & CAMP on DURABLE SURFACES
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BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHER VISITORS RESPECT WILDLIFE
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MINIMIZE CAMPFIRE IMPACTS (BE CAREFUL WITH FIRE)
LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND
Visit LNT.org for full guidelines for responsibly enjoying the great outdoors !
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TAKE A I hope that you all had a great time learning about essentials for hiking this past winter! Summer is quickly approaching and it’s time to take advantage of the warmer weather to put your knowledge into action! Just as a refresher, here are some of the things to keep in mind before you hit the trails!
HYDRATION
Our bodies are made mostly of water, so it is very important to keep hydrated when hiking. Especially since you will likely be far from any drinkable water during your hike. Always pack enough water for your trip, and then pack more.
WEATHER
Always check several weather predictions before going hiking. Mountainous areas often have fast changing weather, so be prepared for any conditions that you may come in contact with. Rain gear is often light and compactable enough to keep in your hiking pack year round. You’ll appreciate keeping the extra bulk around if you find yourself in a sporadic rain shower.
TEMPERATURE
With cooler temperatures approaching, it is important to be prepared for drastic and sudden temperature changes. Keep in mind that as you gain altitude, temperature drops. There is ample opportunity to gain 2000 ft. in elevation through hikes in South Carolina, so dress in layers! Also remember that cool mornings often warm up to t-shirt weather, but then quickly drop back down as the sun gets lower.
FOOD
Have you ever noticed how a day at the pool makes you extra hungry? Hiking can have the same effects on your appetite. Light to moderate activity over a prolonged period of time can burn more energy than you think. Be sure to have plenty of refuel options that are nutrient dense!
HEADLAMP
Getting into the habit of keeping a headlamp and extra batteries in your hiking pack is an excellent idea. Even if you are planning to be back well before sunset, unexpected circumstances could arise, leaving you in the dark. Headlamps and batteries are small enough to be stored in a side pocket and be forgotten about until they are needed.
SUN PROTECTION
Our biggest organ is our skin, so we need to take every precaution to protect it! Even though hiking trails have filtered light through the summer, sunlight will be more direct during the winter when all of the deciduous trees drop their leaves. Those harmful UV rays can also bounce off of other surfaces (even grass!) and damage your skin.
NAVIGATION
In the age of technology, we often turn to our phone for directions. However, there is often no cell service out on the trail (we at Outside [the Box] think that life is better that way). In any case, it is imperative that you have a map of the route you will be taking and a compass on each trip. Some trails are not clearly marked, so in the event that you make a wrong turn, having a map and a compass can help you get back on track!
PRO ADVENTURE TIP When picking out snacks and drinks for your hike, try to find options that are high in electrolytes. With warmer temperatures approaching, expect to sweat more, meaning that you’ll need to drink more water and eat healthy snacks to replenish those nutrients!
MOUNTAINS SEA
Over the next few weeks, we’re going to go on an adventure across this beautiful state that we get to call home. We will travel from the Blue Ridge Mountains, to the fall line of the Midlands, all the way down to the salt marshes of the Lowcountry, learning interesting facts about each specific region along the way. By the end of this journey, you’ll know about all of the natural wonders that make South Carolina unique.
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South Carolina has six geographic regions. A geographic region is an area of land with similar features.
Blue Ridge Piedmont Sandhills
Inner Coastal Plain Outer Coastal Plain Coastal Plain
Upcountry: Blue Ridge & Piedmont Midlands: Sandhills & Inner Coastal Plain Lowcountry: Outer Coastal Plain & Coastal Zone
The Blue Ridge region is home to the national wild and scenic Chattooga River. The Chattooga offers exciting rafting trips for rafters of all skill levels.
T N O M PIED
Blue Ridge The Blue Ridge region is full of many hardwood forests and mountains to hike and rivers for rafting.
Piedmont The Piedmont region has rolling hills and valleys with red clay soil. Piedmont means “foot of the mountain.”
Sandhills The Sandhills region is made up of just that, sand. Millions and millions of years ago the ocean covered much of this region making it the shore. When the water receeded it left a hilly, sandy landscape.
Inner Coastal Plain The Inter Coastal Plain region is a little hilly and the soil is very rich which is perfect for farming.
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Outer Coastal Plain The Outer Coastal Plain region is flat land that is close to the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. This region is full of swamps, marshes, and rivers that flow down into the ocean.
Coastal Plain The Coastal Zone region is on the Atlantic Ocean with miles of beaches, barrier islands, natural harbors, and marshes.
ALL ABOUT Starting at the very beginning, South Carolina was declared a state in 1788. Before the English settlers arrived and colonized the area, Native Americans lived in the land, giving our area a rich history. Lots of which can still be seen today, and some that we will stop by on our journey!
STATE FLAG The state flag shows our state tree, the Palmetto tree (Sabal palmetto), with a crescent moon to the upper left.
The palmetto tree represents Moultrie’s heroic defense of the palmetto-log fort on Sullivan’s Island against the British in 1776. The palmetto wood the fort was built of was soft. Instead of knocking down the wood, cannonballs were absorbed and bounced off the soft palmetto wood.
STATE FLOWER Yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens) became our state flower in 1924 and is a beautiful flowering vine that blooms with bright yellow flowers during the spring. Try looking along fence lines or in small trees, you’ll know you’ve found it when you see a cluster of small, yellow, trumpet shaped flowers.
Carolina Wrens build their nests in the holes of trees, on fence posts, or in the eaves of houses and barns. However, the wren is also known for nesting in unusual places such as bags, boxes, flower pots, and even shoes.
STATE BIRD The Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) is our state bird and can be found all across the state, year-round, day or night, and in all weather conditions. They can be distinguished by their small brown stature and white stripes over their eyes.
The Carolina Mantid became the state insect in 1988 for its special role in agriculture controlling harmful insects. Mantids live in a variety of habitats such as meadows and forests.
STATE INSECT The Carolina Mantid (Stagmomantis Carolina) is our state insect. They are most commonly seen near the end of summer through early fall. Ranging in color from green to brown-gray, the Carolina Mantid can easily blend into it’s environment.
Palmetto Tree Yellow Jessamine Lowcountry Carolina Mantid South Carolina
Midlands Carolina Wren Natural Wonders Upcountry Crescent Moon
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Amphibian Animal Butterfly Dog Duck Marine Animal Marine Fish Retile Spider Wildflower Wild Game Bird Heritage Horse
Spotted Salamander White-Tailed Deer Easter Tiger Swallowtail Boykin Spainel Summer Duck (Wood Duck) Bottlenose Dolphin Stripped Bass (Rockfish) Loggerhead Turtle Carolina Wolf Spider Goldenrod Wild Turkey Marsh Tacky Horse
1999 1972 1994 1985 2009 2009 1972 1988 2000 2003 1976 2010
OCONEE We are kicking off our cross-state trek at Oconee State Park, located in Oconee County, the western most county in the Upstate of South Carolina. Oconee State Park offers several trails and beautiful landscapes that are iconic of the mountainous area, while also featuring two lakes for year round fishing. If you are up for a challenge, you can take the Oconee Passage trail down to Station Cove Falls. Or if you would like a shorter hike, you can also access the Station Cove Falls trail from Oconee Station State Historical Site.
PRO ADVENTURE TIP If going in late spring or early summer, be sure to look for the beautiful blooms of the native Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia). Mountain Laurel can be distinguished by its dark green, leathery leaves and by its pink and white blooms.
MOUNTAIN LAUR EL
RHODODENDRON
The South Carolina mountains are known for their diverse flora and fauna. The most iconic and easily recognizable plants across the Blue Ridge Mountains are Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel, which come from the same family, Ericaceae. These plants are often tucked in among each other, both having evergreen foliage giving the forest floor a thick covering all year long. Rhododendron is the much larger genus of the Ericaceae family, which contains many Mountain Laurel species. Rhododendron can grow in more diverse climates, spanning the entire East Coast while Mountain Laurel is confined to a warmer climate. Though Rhododendron is more wide spread, Mountain Laurel is much more adaptable and can grow in sunnier areas, including south facing slopes with dry, rocky, or infertile soil. The easiest way to differentiate between Mountain Laurel and Rhododendron is by their blooms. Mountain Laurel blooms from May – June bearing cup shaped flowers in either white or pink, while Rhododendron blooms from June – July with clusters of bell shaped flowers in white, pink, lavender, or deep pink. Now go see if you can differentiate between the two!
STUMPHOUSE Our next stop is the mysterious Stumphouse Tunnel, which was dug by hand prior to the Civil War but was never finished. This tunnel is now open to the public and is around 1/4 mile in length. The tunnel stays around 50 degrees all year, even during those extra hot July days!
FUN FACT
Since the tunnel stays a constant temperature all year round, Clemson University took advantage of the peculiar circumstances in order to research the process of curing blue cheese beginning in 1941. Blue cheese is no longer cured in the tunnel, but the research conducted within the tunnel played a large role in local production.
CHECK OUT PAGES 27-29 and learn about WATERFALL EROSION
Located adjacent to Stumphouse Tunnel is Issaquena Falls. South Carolina has several waterfalls, but this may be one of the easiest to get to. With an approximate 15-minute hike at a casual pace, Issaquena Falls is a local family favorite.
BATS
NORTHERN LONG-EARED BAT (Myotis septentrionalis)
TRICOLORED BAT (Perimyotis subflavus)
Did you know that of all the mammals on Earth, bats are the only ones capable of true flight? Though bats are well known for their presence in caves and attics, and are especially popular around Halloween, few know the impact that they have on our environment. Each of the 14 bat species that can be found in South Carolina prey on insects – don’t worry, vampire bats are found much further south – which majorly impacts agriculture. Reducing populations of bats would require farmers to use higher amounts of pesticides each year, increasing the cost of production as well as lowering organic crop potential. Sadly, population decrease is the case due to White-nose syndrome. White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a fungal infection of the skin that causes bats to wake up from hibernation more frequently than uninfected bats. Early awakening from hibernation can cause the bat to be disoriented and cold temperatures can limit the availability of insects, often leading to dehydration and starvation. WNS was first found in South Carolina in 2013 at Table Rock State Park, then found at Stumphouse Tunnel in 2014. Presence of WNS has caused tri color bat populations to drop from 321 in 2014 to 37 in 2017.
Of the 47 bat species that can be found in the United States, these 14 can be found in South Carolina: Big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus)
Northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis)
Brazilian free-tailed bat (Tadarida brasiliensis)
Northern yellow bat (Lasiurus intermedius)
Eastern red bat (Lasiurus borealis)
Rafinesque’s big-eared bat (Corynorhinus rafinesquii)
Eastern small-footed bat (Myotis leibii)
Silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans)
Evening bat (Nycticeius humeralis)
Southeastern bat (Myotis austroriparius)
Hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus)
Seminole bat (Lasiurus seminolus)
Little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus)
Tricolored bat (Perimyotis subflavus)
YELLOW BRANCH We are now visiting our third waterfall, and there are many more for you to discover on your own! Yellow Branch Falls is a moderately difficult trail that leads to a 50-foot cascade. You’ll have to cross a few creeks on this passage, so be sure to wear your waterproof shoes!
FUN FACT The Appalachian Mountains are among the oldest mountains on the earth. This means that they’ve had the longest amount of time to erode – can you believe that at one point they looked similar to the Rocky Mountains out west?
Have you ever thought about how powerful water can be? Water is something that is so commonplace in our lives that we often forget how integral of a part it plays in so many processes in our world. Around 60% of our bodies are made of water, power can be made through the force of water, and our weather systems are controlled by differences of water in one area compared to the next.
You will soon notice on our adventure that there several waterfalls in the upstate of South Carolina. So, why is this? Given that most of our waterfalls are located in the upstate, we can make the assumption that for there to be a waterfall, there must be certain conditions present, and these conditions are certainly present in the Blue Ridge!
For a waterfall to be created, there must be a combination of soft rock and hard rock. Soft rock is rock that can be eroded relatively easily. This means that as water flows over, the rock begins breaking down into smaller pieces that can range from sand granules to larger pieces closer to the size of gravel. As time goes on, the soft rock breaks down and washes down river much faster than the hard rock does. Though hard rock erodes much slower, more often only breaking down into sand granules, it does in fact still erode. When there is an area of soft rock that spans deep into the earth, with a layer of hard rock on top, the soft rock underneath begins to give way, undercutting the hard rock on top. This leaves a sharp drop off with an overhang of hard rock, while continually wearing away at the soft rock underneath. Eventually, as the water continues to rush over, the hard rock wears away and will break off due to exceeding pressure from the water, dropping more rock into the plunge pool, which further erodes the soft rock below. Over time, the waterfall moves backwards as the soft rock and hard rock continue to erode and wash downstream.
HARD ROCK
WATERFALL RETREAT OVERHANG
STEEP-SIDED GORGE DEVELOPS AS WATERFALL RETREATS
PLUNGE POOL
FALLEN ROCKS
Can you see how the waterfall has moved over the years of erosion at Issaquena Falls? Can you find an indentation when the plunge pool used to be?
Yellow Branch Falls Overhang Waterfall retreats Issaquena Falls Steep gorge
Plunge pool Station Cove Falls Fallen rocks Erosion Hard rock
CHATTOOGA If you are truly up for an adventure, the Chattooga River is the place for you! As South Carolina’s premiere natural area for whitewater rafting, the Chattooga is a dream adventure for an adrenaline junkie. Rapids range from class II to V, with guided tours to suit your experience level.
PRO ADVENTURE TIP For a bird’s eye view of these beautiful natural landscapes, try out one of the local zip-lining adventures.
Of course for there to be rapids, there has to be moving water. Faster moving water provides an even better chance for rapids, but there are also many other conditions that must be present to get that white water experience. Gradient and construction are also very important when talking about rapid formation. Gradient is the slope of the land that the water is running over. Higher slope often means faster moving water, which in turn leads to a higher rapid class. Construction is when the water is forced from a larger channel into a smaller channel, which also tends to increase the flow of water. Think about when you put your finger over the end of a garden hose, the water comes out of a smaller hole much faster, providing more force. Now that we have water flowing through a downhill area with lots of speed, we need some obstacles to increase the turbulence of the water. Rocks and boulders along the bottom and sides of the river allow the formation waves, holes, and pourovers. When the bottom of the river is composed of a narrow channel made majorly of hard rock, you can usually find stretches of whitewater rapids, as seen in the Chattooga!
EASTATOE This passage is perfect for eyeing native flora and fauna. Moderate difficulty and mostly wooded trail provide for lush wildlife experiences, also featuring a picturesque bridge across the Eastatoe. This area has been deemed a “destination of a lifetime” by National Geographic.
The Eastatoe Passage shows off one of South Carolina’s most beautiful features, Lake Keowee. Lake Keowee is a man-made reservoir that is known for its deep, emerald green waters with picturesque views of the mountains in the background. Being fed by cool Appalachian Mountain rivers, the water stays cool and clear year round. Lake Keowee and nearby Lake Jocassee were developed in 1973 through a partnership with Duke Energy in order to generate electricity. The Keowee-Toxaway Hydroelectric Project uses waters from both Lake Keowee and Jocassee to provide 868 megawatts of clean, economic power. Keowee and Jocassee are both located in the Savannah River watershed. South Carolina has eight total watersheds, each correlating with its major river basin: Broad, Catawba, Edisto, PeeDee, Salkehatchie, Saluda, Santee, and Savannah. A watershed is a geographic area into which the surrounding waters, sediments, and dissolved materials drain, and whose boundaries extend along surrounding topographic ridges. Each of our watersheds are closely monitored to determine overall water safety and management, ensuring our water is safe to consume.
SASSAFRAS
Sassafras Mountain, also known as the “rooftop of South Carolina” is the highest peak in the state. Depending on the day, you can see anywhere from 30-50 miles from this point. The lookout is up a short pathway from a parking area, but if you are looking to hike, there are plenty of trails to choose from in the area.
Located right atop the North and South Carolina border, the Sassafras overlook shows some of the most scenic views in the upstate. Sassafras Mountain got its name from the ample Sassafras trees (Sassafras albidum) growing on the lower slopes along the south branch of the Saluda River. Sassafras trees thrive in moist, acidic, well drained soil and can grow to a height of 30-60 feet tall. Sassafras trees can be distinguished by their aromatic fragrance and unique 3-lobed leaves, which look similar to a mitten. Clusters of yellow flowers break out as the trees bloom in early spring, leaving small blue fruits that are popular among birds in the fall. Their brilliant display of fall color can make them easily identifiable during the fall months, creating a wonderful show when seen in clumps along the Saluda river.
The Roundtop Mountain hiking trail is located in the beautiful and unique Jocassee Gorges and the trail head is located just off of the Sassafras Mountain parking area. This trail gives a view across Poplar Hollow Creek to the rock face of Rock Mountain. The spectacular rock face can only be seen from the ground at the overlook.
JOCASSEE The Jocassee Gorges is around 40,000 acres spanning across North and South Carolina. Most of the area we have covered so far has been inclusive of the Jocassee Gorges, but as we come to a close with our time in the Blue Ridge, we get to discover one of the most spectacular parts of the Jocassee Gorges, Lake Jocassee. Along the Blue Ridge Electric Co-Op section of the Palmetto Trail, you’ll find the crystal clear waters of Lake Jocassee meeting the base of the Blue Ridge Escarpment. Slopes drop in elevation over 2,000 vertical feet in a matter of one to two miles, a place so spectacular, National Geographic included it as one of “50 of the World’s Last Great Places.”
An escarpment is an area of the Earth where elevation changes suddenly, caused by a process of erosion and faulting. This sheer drop, created by the movement of tectonic plates and the erosive force of water, is home to a mountainous biome of unique beauty that also serves as a backdrop for the beautiful Lake Jocassee. The cool water that fills Lake Jocassee feeds from the Appalachian Mountains, keeping the water clear year round. Lake Jocassee is known for its clean waters and undeveloped shoreline, with only one public access point through Devils Fork State Park. For those seeking a view without a hike, the escarpment can be seen from lookouts like Caesars Head and Bald Rock viewing areas.
FUN FACT We will learn the details behind the movement of tectonic plates when we make it to the Midlands, but for now, just remember that those breathtaking views are caused by earth plates converging on each other, pushing one plate over the other.
JONES GAP The Rainbow Falls trail is a 4.3 mile out and back trail, rated as moderate, leading to a waterfall, Rainbow Falls. This trail is great for birdwatching and other nature trips. The trail is characterized by complex relief with steep ravines and narrow valleys created by the many first order streams flowing through the area.
One of the most iconic American symbols is the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), seeing that it has been the national emblem of the United States since 1782. Designated a federally endangered species in 1977, there were only 13 pairs found in the state of South Carolina. However, over years of protection, there are now more than 400 pairs that can be found across the state. This increase in population can be explained by a series of federal regulations on current bald eagle habitats as well as the restoration of areas previously known to house bald eagles. Bald eagles can fly upwards of 75 miles per hour, have a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet, and can live up to 20 years. That’s an impressive bird! Given their size and distinct characteristics, such as their white head and tail with a bright yellow beak, they can be spotted from far away. Their nests are often found in the top of tall trees and are usually 4-5 feet wide.
Keep a look out for Bald Eagle nests today on your hike! Maybe you’ll even get to see a Bald Eagle in flight!
KINGS MOUNTAIN What Thomas Jefferson referred to as the “turn of the tide of success,” the battle of Kings Mountain was an important part of American victory during the Revolutionary War. Today the park consists of 4000 acres of land which hosts a wide variety of plant and animal life. This park also provides several specialized habitats for threatened plants and is home to rare ecosystems. There are 542 species of plants located within the park, most of which being unique to the area.
PRO ADVENTURE TIP If you are interested in getting more involved, enlist to become a junior ranger! Pick up an informational booklet at the front desk, or download a copy at nps.gov/kimo/learn/kidsyouth/beajuniorranger.htm
On October 7, 1780, the small but significant battle of the War for Independence and the Southern Campaign took place on a rocky hilltop in Western South Carolina called Kings Mountain. The fierce firefight fought here pitted Loyalist militia elements under the command of British Maj. Patrick Ferguson of the 71st Foot, nicknamed by his men “Bull Dog” against 900 “Over Mountain Men,” residents of the Carolina Backcountry and the Appalachian Mountain range, and from places that would later become the states of Tennessee and Kentucky. American cavalry commander “Light Horse” Harry Lee called them, “A race of hardy men who were familiar with the use of the horse and the rifle, stout, active, patient under privation, and brave. To the British they were “more savage than the Indians.” Kings Mountain proved to be another stinging defeat in the British attempt to secure control of the Southern colonies. Their banking on Loyalist support once more failed. Historian Jack Kelly wrote, “The small, but decisive Kings Mountain victory could not be attributed to the American high command nor to any one leader. No general rode at the head of the army that accomplished it. Congress did not order or pay for it. It was like the rout of the redcoats at Concord five years earlier, a people’s victory, an amateur’s victory. The crude, spirited, hardy determined volunteers who crossed the mountains served, Washington said, ‘as proof of the spirit and resources of the country.”
CROFT The Croft Passage hike is ideal for cyclists, equestrians, and hikers alike. With 12.6 miles of trail total, there is plenty to be explored! This is another area of our state that is rich with history. In the 1700s, the nearby shoals supported a hub of mills, trading and political activity.
Have you ever wondered why so many towns and cities are built near a source of water? Sure, drinking water is essential for survival, but water is important for many other economic and social reasons, too! When we traveled around Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee, we learned about their dual purpose for development: power creation and recreational use. The idea of using a water source as power generation is not a new idea, although it has been majorly developed through years of research. Water wheels have been around for more than a millennium and are powered by a steady water current. Used for grinding grain, crop irrigation, and even dispersing water throughout town, having an active water wheel was a huge benefit for a community. Another benefit to building a community near water was due to an abundance of fertile land caused by deposits of minerals that had been eroded from nearby areas. Fertile land made the crops grow well and the nearby water allowed irrigation to be close by during dry spells. Nearby water passages also allowed for easy transportation and trading of goods, especially in mountainous areas or areas with thick underbrush. Though technology has developed so that we are able to disperse water to areas that are further away from water sources, water supply still plays a large role in the functioning of our society. What are ways that we use water now that you may not see every day?
PRO ADVENTURE TIP While exploring the Croft Passage, think about ways that previous communities may have used the flow of water through this area. Use the “Advance America” Bridge to get a bird’s eye view of all that the creek has to offer!
GLEN SPRINGS The Glenn Springs Historic District is a unique time capsule of buildings from around 1840 to 1940. Once known for its mineral filled healing waters, Glenn Springs now serves as a glimpse into what life would have been like over 100 years ago. Surrounded by rolling farmlands and mature forests, Glenn Springs is a must see destination.
Mineral springs are naturally occurring springs that produce water-containing minerals, or other dissolved substances, that alter its taste or give it a purported therapeutic value. The mineral-laden waters of Glenn Springs were once so famous that they were shipped all over America and to parts of Europe, even being sampled by George Washington, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and members of the United States Senate. Similar to Saratoga Springs, New York, Glenn Springs became prominent around 1835 due to the belief in the restorative properties of mineral water. In the case of Glenn Springs, John B. Glenn purchased the five hundred acres of land that surrounded the springs for eight hundred dollars in 1825. Sensing an opportunity, he opened an inn for the traveling public and allowed rich locals to build cabins surrounding the springs. In 1836, the Glenn Springs Company built a grand hotel that became known for its elegance, gentility, and the prominence of its guests. All of that was duly promoted, as were the health benefits of its water. Travel to the hotel was difficult, particularly for those who traveled great distances. In the late 1800s, a narrow railroad was built to service Glenn Springs from nearby Roebuck, but was discontinued around 1915. By the late 1920s, the once-robust business had faded. A local Spartanburg bank rated only 72 of 100 rooms in “fine” condition. Some say that by giving people more mobility, the automobile hastened the downfall of the once-famous hotel. Others also point to the economic hardships caused by the Great Depression. When the hotel burned in 1941 it was never rebuilt and in 1961, the old Presbyterian Church was abandoned.
BLACKSTOCK musgrove mills The Revolutionary War historic sites at Musgrove Mill interpret and protect the location of the Battle of Musgrove Mill. The battle, in which the vastly outnumbered Patriot militia outlasted the Loyalists in a surprising victory, is detailed through interpretive signage in the visitor center and along two and a half miles of nature trails. The Blackstock Battlefield Passage of the Palmetto trail is a loop trail that leads through wooded paths as well as along a remote section of the Tyger River.
Shelley Robbins
While passing through this area of the Tyger River, be sure to watch out for signs of pollution. Do you see empty cans? Plastic wrappers? Maybe something as big as an old tire? Seeing that this area of the river is so secluded, how do you think all of this trash get here? We have seen many examples of the incredible force of water throughout our adventure so far, and unfortunately this is an area where the force of water becomes an issue when paired with human irresponsibility. As humans impact the environment by polluting the sides of our walkways, highways, and other public areas, the litter often finds its way into our waterways through flooding and runoff from storm drainage. When trash gets into our water system, it travels downstream until getting caught on an obstacle, getting eaten by an animal, or reaching the ocean. Besides distracting from the natural beauty of our landscapes, how else do you think litter negatively impacts our ecosystems?
PRO ADVENTURE TIP How can you help minimize litter in our waterways? Go to www.SCAquarium.org to learn more about the effects of litter and join or organize a local litter sweep!
ENOREE The Enoree Passage of the Palmetto Trail is a stretch of 36 continuous miles that connect Newberry, Laurens and Union counties through the Sumter National Forest. Buncombe trailhead for equestrians is located at Brick House Recreation Area (mile 14) and accessed from SC 66. Heading north, the Trail meanders through some of the most diverse habitats located in the Enoree Ranger District, including a beaver pond, numerous hardwood drains, and the Enoree River corridor. Take a break on the 80-foot bridge for superb views of the river, and stop to fish in Macedonia, Sedalia, and John’s Creek lakes on the way to the northern trailhead Cole Stilwell alltrails.com at Sedalia Campground.
With all of this talk about water, it’s time we take a break for fishing! South Carolina has over 40 species of freshwater fish, more than 20 inshore saltwater species, and many more species that can be found offshore. The Tyger, Enoree, and Broad rivers combine to create the Enoree Ranger District. The three most common fish that can be found in this river system are bass, sunfish, and catfish. Before going fishing, be sure to visit www.scdnr.gov to make sure you are in compliance with state laws!
NEWBERRY The Newberry Passage will take you along shaded sidewalks passing antebellum homes; Newberry College, founded in 1856; a renovated Main Street with shops, cafes, bars and ice cream parlors; and several historic buildings such as the Old Court House and the Opera House. It even has a Japanese Garden tucked away on a side street, waiting to be discovered. Newberry is known as the “City of Friendly Folks” and it lives up to its’ name as everyone who visits is made to feel welcome.
The Wells Japanese Garden located in downtown Newberry showcases many plants that are native to Japan, but have naturalized into commonly found plants in South Carolina. Some of the most common trees that can be seen across our state are native to Japan, but thrive in our climate due to similarities in weather patterns between Japan and the eastern coast of the United States. Crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), dogwood (Cornus florida), and cypress (Taxodium distichum) can all be found in Newberry’s Japanese garden as well as in many other parts of the state. Though many Japanese plants beneficially make up our canopy, there are a few unwanted invasive species that also came from the same country that brought us some of our most treasured beauties. Kudzu (Pueraria montana) and honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) are commonly found in our area and are considered invasive due to their quick spread, covering and choking out other plant species in the area.
FUN FACT Invasive species are most commonly introduced through gardens and landscaping. Being aware of what you are planting in your space is very important to keep invasive species at bay!
PEAK to PROSPERITY The Peak to Prosperity Passage proceeds west from the Alston trailhead in Fairfield County across the Broad River trestle. The view from the 1,100-foot-long bridge is spectacular, especially when bald eagles soar. Across the river in Newberry County, the railtrail skirts Peak and cuts an easy swath through piedmont forest to Pomaria and Prosperity. Along the passage, 14 wooden trestles span the meandering Crims Creek where German immigrants settled in the 1730s.
FORT JACKSON Fort Jackson was established in the year 1917 to answer the call for trained fighting men in WWI. The Fort was named in honor of Major General Andrew Jackson, a native son of the Palmetto State and seventh president of the United States. Today the installation covers 52,000 acres and is the Army’s largest basic training center. In addition to hiking and mountain biking, this passage offers a great diversity in both plants and animals.
CONGAREE NATIONAL Next, we will be exploring the Congaree National Park which contains the largest remaining area of old growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. The Congaree boasts the tallest know specimens of 15 species! Emerging above the canopy layer is a loblolly pine that looks down on everything from 167 feet, just 18 feet shy of the Boogerman white pine in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the tallest known tree in the East. Among the other first-place record holders for loftiness in the canopy are a sweetgum (157 feet), a cherrybark oak (154), and American elm (135 feet), a swamp chestnut oak (133 feet), an overcup oak (131 feet), a common persimmon (127 feet) and a laurel oak (125 feet). The Congaree is known as the “Redwoods of the East” and is currently home to six national and 23 state champion trees.
As you explore Congaree, observe what you see around you. Circle the pictures of the things you see.
SNAKE
ANOLE
TURTLE
OWL HAWK WOODPECKER
SPIDER
BUTTERFLY CYPRESS KNEE
SNAG
DWARF PALMETTO
CRAWFISH CHIMNEY
Activity & Illustrations from Congaree National Park Junior Ranger book. Download yours at www.nps.gov/cong/learn/kidsyouth/upload/CONG_Jr_Ranger_Booklet_508.pdf
BATTLE OF The small town of Camden, SC boasts a rich history and pristine nature trails all located at the Historic Camden Site. In May 1780, after the fall of Charles Town and the devastating American defeat at Waxhaws, Continental troops began reforming at Charlotte, NC, with Major General Horatio Gates, the “hero of Saratoga,” arriving in July to take command. Both armies understood that Camden was essential to the British plan to control the South Carolina backcountry. On August 16, Gates moved on Camden, but in what is considered among the worst American tactical decisions of the war, he placed his most inexperienced militiamen opposite the most experienced British regulars. Predictably, the Patriot militia was routed, and the attempted assault on the British militia failed when Continental Major General Baron Johann de Kalb was mortally wounded.
SANTEE STATE Santee Indian Mounds
Fort Watson
Santee State Park boasts a unique step back into history. With cypress trees growing throughout Lake Marion, the lake feels like a scene from a movie. A kayak trip to the Santee Indian Mound and Fort Watson Site provides a close up look at the spectacular ecosystem. The Santee Indian Mound is an ancient area that served as a ceremonial and burial site for the Native American tribe. At the end of the 18th century, the mound took on a new purpose for British troops, being used as an outpost and was renamed Fort Watson. The elevation provided an excellent vantage point overlooking the Santee River and the road to Charleston.
The Lowcountry is known for its swamps. You are probably wondering what could be so great about a swamp, but as soon as you see the picturesque Lake Marion, you’ll understand what makes the Lowcountry so special. Cypress and tupelo trees emerge from the edges of the shore with an expanse of open water in the middle with waters below as black as tea. There’s truly nothing like being under the canopy of the trees with ample wildlife buzzing around. For the best views, take a kayak tour for an immersive experience and to see the beauty up close. Though this area has historically been a swamp, the Santee River was dammed in 1941 in efforts for a hydroelectricity project. Since cypress and tupelo trees thrive in moist environments, those that remained in more shallow areas of the lake remained, creating groupings of small swamplike areas within the lake.
Lake Marion holds the record for the largest alligator in the state at a whopping 12 feet 10 inches weighing over 800 pounds!
LAKE moultrie The scenic and popular Lake Moultrie Passage rings the eastern and northern shores of the 60,000-acre lake (the third largest lake in South Carolina), and the panoramic views are one of a kind. Lake Moultrie was created in the early 1940s by the South Carolina Public Service Authority. Its effluent is the Cooper River, and it is dammed by the Pinopolis Dam. It was named after Governor William Moultrie. The passage includes pine forests and dike systems rimming the lake then south through Bonneau Beach and continuing to the trail head of the Swamp Fox Passage.
Have you noticed a pattern with the water systems that we have discussed so far? Each of the lakes that we have talked about on our journey have been man-made lakes. In fact, South Carolina does not have any naturally created lakes, only man made. In order for a natural lake to occur, depressions with boundaries on all sides must be present, with a continual source of water running to the area. Many of the natural lakes in the United States today were formed by the melting of major glaciers throughout history. With the lack of the natural requirements for a lake to be created in South Carolina, our lakes have been created by making an embankment around a basin that is then filled by a river. Man-made lakes are built on streams or rivers, with a significant flow of water. A large dam is built to stop the flow of the river and the basin fills. The dam allows for control of water levels of the lake and can let water out or retain water when needed. This control of water is often essential in the creation of hydroelectricity, the main reason for the creation of lakes in our state.
FUN FACT The two main reasons for the creation of our lakes are for hydroelectric & recreational purposes!
CYPRESS Cypress gardens is a 170 acre preserve and gardens located in Moncks Corner. The centerpiece of the garden is the 80 acre blackwater bald cypress and tupelo swamp, surrounded by both boat and foot trails.
Have you ever been curious to know what South Carolina looked like through history? Before highways were created and buildings were on every corner? Cypress Gardens has an Heirloom Garden that hosts plant species that have been around since the 1800’s. Heirloom plants are varieties that have not been cross bred with other varieties over time and are open-pollinated, meaning that they must be pollinated by insects or by natural mechanism. All of this to say, they are through and through the same plants that were present two hundred years ago. Plants that have been around for so long are often considered native to our area and thrive in our natural environmental conditions. Taking a stroll through what our state historically would have looked like may give you a new perspective on all that nature has to offer!
SWAMP FOX At 47 miles, the Swamp Fox Passage is the longest section of the cross-state Palmetto Trail. The passage traverses four distinct ecosystems through Francis Marion National Forest, including swamps made famous as hideouts of Revolutionary War hero Francis Marion. Mature long-leaf pine forests are home to the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker. Grassy savannas with abundant wildlife border Dog Swamp and Turkey Creek, and a cypress pool footbridge offers excellent views of the impressive Wadboo Swamp. If you’d like to get a look from the water, there is a canoe launch near mile post 43 that allows visitors to get a more in depth view of the distinct ecosystems.
AWENDAW Awendaw Passage is the coastal terminus of the mountains-tosea Palmetto Trail. The Trail’s namesake trees greet users at the Buck Hall Recreation Area trailhead. Starting at the Intracoastal Waterway, the Trail meanders westward through maritime forest and offers sweeping vistas of Lowcountry salt marsh along Awendaw Creek. These marshes provide highly productive nursery grounds for numerous commercially and recreationally important species and serve as filters to remove sediments and toxins rom the water. The salt marshes also buffer the mainland by slowing and absorbing storm surges, thereby reducing erosion of the coastline.
One of the most beautiful pieces of South Carolina marshes is the ever important sporobolus, formerly known as spartina. As the most dominant plant from Mexico, all the way up the United states. Most coastal species interact with sporobolus in some way, whether it be for consumption or shelter, making it a staple for ecological health along North American coastlines. Salt marshes are the second most productive ecosystems in the world due to their efficient method of recycling nutrients. Once the plant dies in the fall, it forms wrack and decomposes, releasing its nutrients back into the system. Sporobolus also greatly helps in erosion control thorough its stabilization of the soil through rhizomes (underground stem system), its ability to break up wave energy by its stalks, and its ability to trap sediment to prevent erosion from sea level rise.
BROOKGREEN Brookgreen Gardens is a sculpture and wildlife preserve, located just south of Murrels Inlet. The 9,100-acre property includes several themed gardens with American figurative sculptures placed in them, the Lowcountry Zoo, and trails throughout several ecosystems in nature reserves on the property. Brookgreen Gardens was opened in 1932, and is built on four former rice plantations, taking its name from the former Brookgreen Plantation.
FUN FACT South Carolina’s combination of fertile soil and interconnectedness of waterways allowed for a unique advantage in rice production. Farmers could use the change in tides to flood fields as needed, optimizing field use for crops that thrive in submerged conditions. While on the waterway, you can still see some of the technology that was used for the flooding of rice fields!
EDISTO The Edisto River’s name originated from the word Edisto, a Native American term meaning “black” and refers to the dark color of the river created from decaying leaves and other plant material. The Edisto is considered the longest free-flowing backwater river in the United States and one of the longest worldwide. The Edisto supports several rare, nationally threatened, and endangered species such as the red-cockaded woodpecker, southern bald eagle, wood stork, loggerhead turtle, and short nosed sturgeon.
DRE DCOKACDE KDOWEPOCRE
GEHDALOGRE TELRUT
NHSUTRED DBLA ELAEG
THOSR SDENO NTSGROEU
ODWO KTSOR
ACE The Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto River Basin (abbreviated as the ACE Basin) is one of the largest undeveloped estuaries along the Atlantic Coast of the United States. Located primarily in Colleton, Charleston, and Beaufort counties, the Ashepoo, Combahee, and South Edisto rivers combine in to the larger St. Helena Sound and drain a significant portion of the Lowcountry Region. The 250,000acre area is known for its natural environment and the preservation of its marshes, wetlands, hardwood forests, and riverine systems and the fauna that occupy the area. In 2014, National Geographic featured the ACE Basin as its cover story, and The Nature Conservancy called the area, “one of the last great places.”
FUN FACT Estuaries are a very unique ecosystem because they are areas in which a freshwater stream meets a saltwater ocean. When the freshwater and saltwater mix, the water is brackish. Did you know that salmon are born in freshwater, spend their lives in saltwater, then return to freshwater to lay their eggs?
BULL Bull Island is arguably on of South Carolina’s most beautiful and remote places. The largest of four barrier islands found within Cape Romaine National Wildlife Refuge, Bull Island is a 5,000-acre maritime forest with fresh and brackish water impoundments and a beach area. The six-and-a-half-mile uninhabited island remains virtually untouched and is home to countless wildlife and endangered species and has a world renowned reputation for its bird life. More than 275 species of birds are found on or near the island.
FUN FACT There is a reason that the beach of Bull Island is called Boneyard Beach! The trees that decorate the shoreline died due to extensive erosion caused by multiple hurricanes over the past century and have since been bleached by the salt and sun, giving the beach an eerie feeling.
COOPER Our final exploration will be that of the Cooper River. Another blackwater river, sunlight can only penetrate 10 or so feet into the tannin colored river. Fossils and artifacts erode from the river banks and accumulate along underwater gravel beds strewn about the rover bottom anywhere from 20 to 50 feet below. Many of the fossils are shark teeth, including the famous Megalodon shark, and its predecessors.
Megalodon, meaning ‘big tooth,’ is a species of shark that is now extinct. Megalodons were close relatives of the great white shark and could grow in excess of 60 feet. The largest Megalodon tooth ever found in South Carolina was 6.5 inches long, weighing more than 3 pounds.
SC Did you know that all seven sea turtle species are listed as threatened or endangered? The South Carolina Aquarium (SCA) has a worldrenowned sea turtle hospital that goes above and beyond in the rehabilitation process of injured sea turtles. When a sea turtle is found stranded or injured, SCDNR brings the animal to the Sea Turtle Care Center for treatment. Sea turtles arrive most commonly suffering from debilitated turtle syndrome, shock from being exposed to cold temperatures, or injury from a boat strike or shark bite. SCA staff veterinarians diagnose each turtle and work with Care Center staff and volunteers to provide treatments and rehabilitative care. Patients are given IV fluids, antibiotics, vitamins and other medications. Based on the sea turtle’s condition, a variety of procedures may be performed, such as x-rays or ultrasounds. Rehabilitated sea turtles are released home in hopes that they will become reproductive members of the sea turtle population. Plastic injested by a sea turtle.
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TOM AND VIRGINIA ANN MULLIKIN For more information about the SC7 Expedition Outdoor Adventure Book, contact abbey@scnhc.com / 864-965-8711 ©Content Copyright SCNHC, Inc. Some of the images used within this Outdoor Adventure Book are believed to be in the public domain. If an image appears to which you have exclusive rights, please contact anna@scnhc.com so that the image may be removed from this publication or proper credit given.