Peak to Prosperity Passage
Trail Description
The Peak to Prosperity Passage can be accessed from four spots along its route: Alston, Hope Station, Pomaria and Kibler’s Bridge. The Alston Trailhead is the largest and most spectacular, with immediate access to the impressive Broad River trestle. The view from the 1,100-foot-long bridge is spectacular, especially when bald eagles soar. Across the river in Newberry County, the rail-trail skirts historic Peak and cuts an easy swath through piedmont forest to Pomaria and will eventually connect to Prosperity. Along the passage, 14 wooden trestles span the meandering Crims Creek where German immigrants–Deutsche in their own language– settled in the 1730s. The area is known as the Dutch (Deutsche) Fork.
The Alston Trailhead has become a destination in its own right, with campsites, one of which is accessible, canoe/kayak access, and plenty of spots to picnic or fish. Additional campsites are located between mile markers 5 and 6, near mile marker 7, and on either side of mile marker 8.
In 2020, the Alston Trailhead was the first location on the Palmetto Trail to become part of the Kids in Parks TRACK Trail program. Kids in Parks encourages kids to disconnect from devices and get outside. Each TRACK Trail features self-guided brochures with information about the trail and suggested activities. Adventures can be tracked online.
The 11-mile, 200-foot-wide right-of-way for the Passage was purchased from Norfolk Southern Railroad. Thanks to SC Parks, Recreation & Tourism for funds to convert the river trestle to a Passage treadway, and to Fairfield County for funds to develop the Alston trailhead park.