Think all of the daring hiking trails in South Carolina are in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains? Think again. Over in Lancaster’s Walnut Creek Park, you can embark on foot (or bike) on a 3.5-mile Carolina Thread Trail that leads all the way to the North Carolina border where you’ll encounter a daunting decision: do you dare to cross the lengthy 180-foot swinging bridge?

In stark comparison, if a football field is 300 feet in length, then, at 180 feet, the suspension bridge over Twelve Mile Creek is more than half the length of a football field.
alltrails/Chris Gibbs
You will find it at the Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve. To make it an even more nail-biting experience, the sides of the bridge are made of rope, not something rock solid to hold onto. Do you love this adventure already?!
For the most part, the Twelve Mile Creek Trail (also known as part of the Carolina Thread Trail) meanders in and out of suburbia in the nicest of neighborhoods.
Google Local/Scott Chisholm
Expect to encounter plenty of smiling faces from the locals along the Carolina Thread Trail. You'd be smiling, too, if this trail was in your backyard for you to enjoy any time you'd like!
Prepare for some super lush vistas, even though there are houses on the horizon.
Google Local/Scott Chisolm
But the Twelve Mile Creek Trail isn't all sidewalks rolling past perfectly groomed yards.
It winds along the gently moving Twelve Mile Creek, where you just may see a salamander or two in the right season.
alltrails/Derek Moore
You'll definitely appreciate the sounds of nature along the creek, whether you're on a leisurely stroll on this mostly flat trail, or taking a run or riding a bike.

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It will seem like it takes no time at all to arrive at the point where the trail crosses the creek — and the state border.
Google Local/Rob Mendrzycki
But what does time matter when you're out to enjoy nature?
Both sides of the bridge have a posted request to not overload the suspension. Only 12 persons at a time are allowed on this gently moving wonder.
alltrails/jonathan stephens
Oh, don't worry, it only moves when you take a step. But if you want a photo like this one of the state line in the very middle of the bridge, you'll have no choice but to cross.
Who are we kidding?? (No one, probably!) This trail and the 180-foot suspension bridge are loads of irresistible fun the whole family will enjoy!
Google Local/crv adventure mom
And when it comes to family fun, this is one of the best places to enjoy it.
On the South Carolina side, the easiest point of entry onto the Carolina Thread Trail is at Walnut Creek Park in Lancaster.
Google Local/nano lancet
If hiking in super hot weather, please remember to bring plenty of water along.

Not all hikes need to include a daredevil challenge like this quirky-cool suspension bridge – but it sure makes it more fun for the kids, right? Have you ever hiked this trail to the suspension bridge over Twelve Mile Creek? We’d love to hear about your experience and see your photos in the comments.

Keeping the kids entertained can be a challenge, so check out these seven kid-friendly hikes in South Carolina. Happy adventuring!

Want to learn more about cool stuff in South Carolina? Check out this video about watching baby pelicans on a coastal expeditions cruise:

 

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Adventures in South Carolina

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | February 13, 2023

Where can we find other hiking trails in South Carolina?

  • The Audubon's Francis-Beidler Forest in Harleyville offers miles of trails, a 1.75-mile boardwalk, and is a paradise for wildlife and bird enthusiasts.
  • Jones Gap in Marietta features over 11,000 acres of trails as well as an interactive ecology center.
  • Paris Mountain Sulphur Springs Trail in Greenville is a 3.5-mile loop meandering through forests and rocky slopes.

Read on to learn more about the many amazing hiking trails in South Carolina.

 

Where can we experience beautiful sunrises or sunsets in South Carolina?

  • Huntington Beach State Park in Georgetown County is a 2,500-acre park with loads of hiking trails, one even going to a former castle.
  • Brookgreen Gardens, also in Georgetown County, encompasses an astounding 9,100 acres and features several tranquil gardens and beautiful sculpture
  • The Pier at Garden City in Murrells Inlet looks over the ocean and is where you can also enjoy fishing and a family fun arcade.

Read on to learn more about the many places to experience beautiful sunrises and sunsets in South Carolina.

 

Where can we find outdoor gardens in South Carolina?

  • The Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden in the town of Bishopville is a three-acre garden featuring some of the most fascinating topiary designs.
  • The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens in Charleston were founded in 1870 and are the oldest in America. The flora and fauna here are nothing short of spectacular.
  • The Hopeland Gardens in Aikencover 14 acres and are highlighted by beautiful sculptures, lovely stone walkways, and stunning verdant trees.

Read on to learn more about the many beautiful outdoors gardens in South Carolina.

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