Hiking and walking is a year-round sport in South Carolina. With mild summers and winters, beautiful springs, and colorful autumns, the ever-changing landscape lends itself to a hiker’s paradise. Also unique to South Carolina is the opportunities to hike and walk trails through Revolutionary War sites and battlefields—not something easily found further west.
Steeped in history, heritage, and wonder, hiking through Revolutionary War sites is a must-do for those who enjoy nature and history. Get a sense of colonial life prior to the war, understand the landscape of the battles, explore original and replica forts, learn about period battle techniques such as tunneling, and more!
Here are 7 trails we recommend in South Carolina’s Old 96 District:
BATTLE OF MUSGROVE MILL STATE HISTORIC SITE
Battlefield Trail
This trail begins on the ADA boardwalk leading to the overlook at Horseshoe Falls. From there, you’ll go out to the battlefield area and come across interpretive waysides of the American Revolutionary War Battle of Musgrove Mill which was a pivotal fight won by the American militia on August 19, 1780. Don’t miss the Visitor’s Center’s interactive exhibits that tell the story of the Musgrove Mill battle.
British Camp Trail
This is another trail not to miss in the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site’s 397 acres of historically significant land. You’ll walk along the Enoree River most of the way, providing a serene atmosphere. This trail also has interpretive waysides that educate about the homestead of the Musgrove family, the British Encampment in the summer of 1780, 18th-century transportation, and the gristmill that was located on the river.
NINETY-SIX NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Cherokee Path
This 1.5-mile trail was once a direct route for traders and trappers, Native Americans, and settlers to exchange merchandise between the backcountry and the Carolina coast. You can hike the existing Cherokee Path at Ninety Six just as the Native Americans did. Get a sense of what life was like for colonists prior to the war, their relationship with the Native Americans, and enjoy the beautiful tree-lined trail.
Fisherman’s Trail
Travel around the Star Fort Pond with lake access at several points. Fishing is also allowed during daylight on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays between April 1st and November 1st for those with a valid South Carolina fishing license and following the park’s listed guidelines here.
Gouedy Trail
A 1.5-mile loop that leads you to areas like Robert Gouedy’s trading post, James Gouedy’s gravesites, and Ninety Six Creek.
Historic Interpretive Trail
The paved 1-mile walking trail includes wayside signs, the reconstructed siege works and Stockade Fort, original 1781 Star Fort, town site of old Ninety Six, historic roads, and more. The trail begins and ends at the visitor parking lot. This is one of the best trails to get a full picture of life before and during the Battle of 96.
Star Fort Pond
As you walk along this path, observe the abundant wildlife including great blue herons. Ponder the passage of time and the changes brought to this landscape along the Cherokee Path. This is an excellent area for birding, so don’t forget your binoculars!
Ready to visit South Carolina’s Old 96 District and hike some of these great trails? Visit our website for everything you need to plan your trip at VisitOld96SC.com!
