The 7.2 mile Wateree Passage begins in Poinsett State Park and runs to the Wateree River, crossing through Manchester State Forest and along the old SC Railroad bed. The passage is one of the most diverse sections of the Palmetto Trail, traversing a variety of landscapes, from near mountainous terrain down to a magnificent river swamp. After two miles, the trail begins the ascent to the "High Hills of Santee," which is one of the highest elevations in Sumter County. The High Hills provides spectacular vistas of the swamp and Richland County.

Length: 7.2 miles; ends at Wateree River
Use: Hiking and mountain biking
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Fees: Bikers must have permit from SC Forestry Commission

Directions: See page 2 of map pdf

Additional Information: Manchester State Forest, 7640 Headquarters Road, Wedgefield, 29168 (803) 494-8196

Click here to view a full-sized Adobe Acrobat map of the Wateree Passage.