Palmetto Trail Permit: Route
Palmetto Trail permits are walk-up only in Palmetto Trail. The route covers 500 miles.
This guide covers the Palmetto Trail Thru-Hike permit.
Free
Permit Cost
varies; passages range from 1.3 to 47 miles and can be hiked individually or end-to-end
Duration
500 miles
Distance
About Palmetto Trail
The Palmetto Trail, once complete, will run 500 miles across South Carolina, from Oconee State Park in the Blue Ridge mountains to Awendaw on the coast, built passage by passage. It is free and walk-up with no single permit; this page gives sourced trip info.
The Palmetto Trail
- Distance
- 500 miles
- Route type
- point-to-point
- Trip length
- varies; passages range from 1.3 to 47 miles and can be hiked individually or end-to-end
Runs the width of South Carolina, from the Blue Ridge foothills to the Lowcountry coast, through 14 counties. Nearest town: Walhalla, SC (mountain end); Awendaw, SC (coastal end)
Points along the route
- Oconee State Park (mountain terminus)
- Oconee Passage (descends to County Highway 95, near Station Cove Falls)
- Peak to Prosperity Passage (former Norfolk Southern rail corridor, 20 numbered trestles)
- Awendaw Passage / Intracoastal Waterway (coastal terminus)
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100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for Palmetto Trail?
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Yes, a permit is required. Walk-up permits are available at the trailhead or visitor center, but arrive early as they may be limited.
How long is the Palmetto Trail route?
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The route is 500 miles, as a point-to-point.
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