Three First Day Hikes Scheduled at Musgrove Mill State Historic Site
December 27, 2022
What better way is there to kick off the New Year than with a visit to one of our South Carolina State Parks (SCSP)? The extreme cold temperatures are in the rear view mirror and so will be 2022.
On New Year’s Day, the South Carolina State Park Service will once again be celebrating with First Day Hikes. These hikes provide a means for individuals and families to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, exercising and connecting with nature. For many it has become an annual tradition to pick a park and enjoy a hike with family and friends.
In 2023 SCSP will continue their #StepsInSCStateParks initiative to encourage outdoor recreation and promote overall mental and physical health and wellness. Events include traditional hikes, horseback rides, and 5Ks.
Residents of Laurens County don’t have to go far to enjoy the outdoors and one of these hikes. Musgrove Mill State Historic Site will offer three First Day Hikes this year. Hike #1 is 9:00-11:15 am, Hike #2 is 1:00-1:30 pm and the Hike #3 is scheduled for 2:00-3:00 pm.
Choose the hike of your interest or ability level and note that there are different meeting locations.
Hike 1 – Battlefield Trail- This will be an approximately two hour ranger led hike over our 1.5 mile Battlefield Trail where the participants will learn about the Revolutionary War in the South Carolina Backcountry and the August 19, 1780 Battle of Musgrove Mill. Meet at the Visitor Center at 8:45 AM. The hike will last from 9 to 11:15 am. No pets for this guided hike please.
Hike 2 – Accessible Horseshoe Falls Hike – Wheelchairs, walkers and strollers are encouraged on this 1/4 mile ranger guided hike exclusively along our paved ADA accessible trail to the overlook of Horseshoe Falls where participants will learn about the legend of Horseshoe Falls. Meet at the Horseshoe Falls Parking Lot at 1 PM. The ranger led hike will last from 1 to 1:30 pm. No pets for this guided hike please.
Hike 3 – British Encampment Trail- This will be a kids focused ranger led hike where the kids will learn about the history of Musgrove Mill, nature, and trail safety. Open for all ages. Following the hike there will be an opportunity for kids to learn how to cook doughboys over an open fire just like the Revolutionary War militiamen. Meet at the Musgrove Mill SHS parking lot, this hike will be from 2-3:00 pm.
There is no charge for the hikes but registration is required for each hike by December 29. Reserve your spot by contacting the park at (864) 938-0100, or email [email protected].
