If the thought of hiking with small children is overwhelming, you’re not alone. It can be a lot to juggle: diaper bags, water bottles, and snacks, in addition to temperamental small humans. But getting out into nature is a game changer. Suddenly, time slows down as you get to watch your toddler fiddle with collected sticks and climb over fallen trees. In nature, there’s no deadlines or to-do lists; there’s simply sunshine and slow breathing. And, isn’t that the point? Greenville natives are incredibly lucky to have so many nearby kid-friendly hiking spots. Below, check out our list of top spots to hike with children in the Upstate. 

1. Paris Mountain State Park 

When visiting Paris Mountain State Park for the first time, it can be disorienting to go directly from a bustling city into a serene mountainscape in about 15 minutes. Its relatively flat, short trails and bathroom access makes it an excellent hiking spot for younger children. Park access is $6 for adults and $3.50 for children ages 6-15. 

Recommended Hike: Lake Placid Loop. This 0.9 trail can become a self guided history tour if visitors pick up a helpful brochure in the Visitor’s Office. Families can cross bridges and view a small waterfall, in addition to observing wildlife and lakeside views. 

2. Conestee Nature Preserve (Super Stroller Friendly) 

Located just 6 miles from downtown Greenville, Conestee Nature Preserve is a 400+ acre wildlife sanctuary that has over 13 miles of trails. Individuals can choose to traverse trails on boardwalks, through wetlands, or through forests. There are 200+ species of birds, as well as many turtles, deer, otters, and other various wildlife to spot at Conestee. There are two playgrounds on site: Conestee Park and Conestee Nature Playscape (a personal favorite of mine). 

Recommended Hike: The Yellow Trail. This 2.2 loop is paved via boardwalk, making it super accessible for strollers. 

3. Swamp Rabbit Trail (Super Stroller Friendly) 

Greenville’s iconic Swamp Rabbit Trail stretches 28 miles, from Greenville to Traveler’s Rest. Ergo, there are a lot of entry points, and this trail is super customizable. An interactive map is available online and includes info for parking, restrooms, waterfountains, trail closures, and more. Because of these amenities and relatively flat trails, the Swamp Rabbit is a great spot to start hiking with small children. Many of the locations pass by coffee shops and restaurants for needed refreshments. 

Recommended Hikes: 

• Swamp Rabbit Cafe to Unity Park
• Unity Park to Falls Park
• Falls Park to Cancer Survivors Park 
• Travelers Rest to Furman University 

4. Cleveland Park (Super Stroller Friendly) 

Greenville’s largest park has 122 acres of trails, playgrounds, and grassy fields to explore. This stop along the Swamp Rabbit Trail also includes the Rock Quarry Garden, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Greenville Zoo. Visitors also love the basketball, tennis, volleyball courts, as well as the shaded and inclusive playground. 

Recommended Hike: Fernwood Nature Trail. This 0.5 trail takes about 10 minutes to trek (not including toddler stops). Visitors can stop to read 24 numbered sites, detailing the flora and fauna of the area. Quiet observers may find birds, squirrels, chipmunks, frogs, lizards, turtles, and/or snakes… if they’re lucky. Please note, this particular trail is not stroller friendly, but most of the trails in Cleveland Park are. 

5. Campbell’s Covered Bridge 

Campbell’s Covered Bridge, the last covered bridge in SC, is just a short 40 minute drive from Greenville. It was originally built in 1909, but stands proudly today as a testament to the past in beloved Landrum, SC. Visitors can enjoy exploring the Bridge, the creek, and the remnants of a nearby grist mill. 

Recommended Hike: 

Campbell's Covered Bridge Loop. This trail is 0.5 miles and overlooks Beaverdam Creek, the Bridge, and the woods. There are benches and picnic tables nearby for a quick lunch with a view. Please note, this trail is not stroller friendly, but it is short and relatively flat for smaller children. There are no restrooms on site. 

6. Blue Wall Preserve

Another beautiful hike in Landrum is found at the 575-acre Blue Wall Preserve. The SC Nature Conservancy’s Blue Wall Preserve is a relatively flat dirt road that can host strollers up to a point. Strollers can make it to a stunning lake and mountain view. Past that, to make it to the waterfall, carriers and/or walking is needed due to elevated and uneven ground. Small children will love the bridge and wildlife. 

Recommended Hike: Park at Dug Hill Rd and enter past the gate. It is recommended that individuals download their GPS coordinates back home because wifi is not strong in the mountains.

‍

Tips for Hiking With Small Children: 

• Start the hike as early in the day as you can.
• Be sure to pack more snacks and water than you think you will need.
• Invest in a travel potty if you can.
• Always pack extra clothes and/or shoes in the car.
• Lower expectations; you may not reach a summit but you may find some flowers! 

‍

‍