FAIRFIELD COUNTY — The Peak to Prosperity Passage of the Palmetto Trail is making national history this weekend with the grand opening of the first standalone Paddle TRACK Trail in the United States.
The two-day celebration begins Friday, Aug. 14, and concludes Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Alston Trailhead on the Broad River. The events mark a major expansion for the “Kids in Parks” program, which is launching its first-ever water-based trail specifically designed for families and young explorers.
The festivities begin Friday with a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony from 10 a.m. to noon. The event officially opens the Alston Trailhead Kayak Launch, a modern facility designed to provide safe, direct access to the Broad River for paddlers of all skill levels.
The celebration continues Saturday at 10 a.m. in conjunction with National TRACK Trails Day. Organizers are encouraging families to bring kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards to explore the new trail, which features a specialized “Paddle Brochure” designed to teach children about water safety, paddling tips, and the wildlife found above and below the surface of the Broad River.
“This new addition provides direct access to the Broad River, creating more opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration,” a Kids in Parks spokesperson said. “The kayak launch strengthens the connection between the river and the trail.”
Saturday’s event will feature several community partners, including the S.C. Department of Natural Resources and the Congaree Riverkeeper, who will be on-site to provide education on water safety and river conservation. Attendees can also explore the 1-mile Peak to Prosperity TRACK Trail on land, visit the new Broad River Conservation Education Preserve, or enjoy treats from Kona Ice.
A limited number of kayaks will be available for rent Saturday on a first-come, first-served basis, courtesy of River Runner Outdoor Center. While the event is free, organizers ask that participants register in advance at palmettotrail.org so staff can prepare for the crowd. Registration does not reserve a kayak rental, and bringing personal watercraft is recommended.
The Alston Trailhead is located at State Rd. S-20-35 in Little Mountain. For more information on the new Paddle TRACK Trail, visit kidsinparks.com.