The SC7 Expedition is once again exploring the state from the mountains to the sea this July! 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 See 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 Oconee, Spartanburg, and the surrounding vicinity!
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 2023 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 2023 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 first couple of weeks in July, though some of the Midlands locations can be done in a day trip from Greenville/Spartanburg, including the City of Newberry and the Peak to Prosperity Passage of the Palmetto Trail.
2023 SC7 Key Events
July 1st – 10th, 2023: SC7 Kick-off event at Oconee State Park will happen on July 1st, 2023. Hikes in the Upstate over the proceeding 10 days include the Chattooga River, Oconee Passage, Eastatoe Passage, Table Rock Trail, Sassafras Mountain, Jocassee Gorges, Jones Gap State Park, Pickens Doodle Trail, Kings Mountain National Military Park, and the Milliken Arboretum Trail,
July 2nd and 3rd, 2023: Mountain Adventure Days. These days will highlight moderate trails that are excellent for families and their four-legged friends. There will be shuttles to transport hikers back to their cars at the end of the day. Please bring bug spray, water, snacks, and sunscreen to make the day enjoyable.
July 8th, 2023: Pickens Doodle Day! Join Easley residents in an exploration of the Doodle Trail, 7.5 miles of flat trail for hiking, biking, or walking. You can start at either the Easley trailhead or the Pickens trailhead, and explore as long as you would like.
SC7 Key Events in the Midlands
July 12th, 2023: Midlands Business Day. Hike the capital city of Columbia, SC, and join in with local businesses to support the SC7 initiative. You will hike along Columbia Riverfront Park, hiking out and back for a 4-mile hike along the canal.
July 15th, 2023: Chotty Trail Biathlon. Spend the day in Kershaw County with SC7 Expedition Team and local leaders as you explore the Wateree River and other local historical places. There will be 3.5 miles of hiking and 2 miles of kayaking to partake in. The biathlon involves participants wearing a 45-pound pack to their final destination for a total of 5.5 miles. Following the biathlon, there will be a family-friendly event with activities, food, and vendors.
SC7 Key Events in the Lowcountry
July 18th, 2023: Participants can join the Lieutenant Governor, Pamela Evette, and the SC7 team in an effort to clean up the beaches of Myrtle Beach with the support of PalmettoPride.
July 27th – 30th, 2023: Adventure Out Weekend. This entire weekend is dedicated to the outdoors of Charleston, SC. There will be lots happening, including paddleboarding, sunrise yoga, and more. The event is in co-op with MUSC and the SC7 team!
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.