Note: Due to the recent flooding, the Advance America Bridge along the Croft Passage has been washed away. The bridge was located between the southern trailhead and mile marker 1 and crossed over Fairforest Creek. Until the bridge is replaced, the only way to access the Southside Trail system is by the Southside Park located off of Groce Road.
As part of the Palmetto Conservation trails system, Croft Passage is a multi-use trail that passes through historic Croft State Park. Starting from the Glenn Springs Passage trailhead, the trail connects Glenn Springs in southern Spartanburg County with the City of Spartanburg. The trail traverses ridges and rolling hills, crosses streams, and follows portions of Kelsey Creek.
For ease of use, the trail is marked with Yellow Blazes Trail Signs. Hikers, cyclists, and horses are all welcome to use Croft Passage. However, certain parts of the trail are designated for hikers with alternative routes for cyclists and equestrians. Look for signs along the trail that indicate these areas. Pets are welcome, but they must be leashed.
For those interested in the area's history, the trail offers a number of opportunities. An Army training center during World War II, Croft State Park was known as Camp Croft and you can see numerous fox holes, some even still contain sandbags. The northern trailhead marks the site of the First Battle of Cedar Springs, a 1780 Revolutionary militia victory. As the trail passes through the historic Cedar Springs area near the northern trailhead, don't forget to keep an eye out for the remains of old homesteads.
The trail crosses a number of bridges, including the longest footbridge in a South Carolina state park—the 65-foot “Advance America” fiberglass expansion bridge. This bridge is found just after starting the trail from the southern trailhead.
Upon entering the park there is information available about the park. The Visitor Center further inside the park also has information about trails, restrooms, camping, picnicking, fishing, and boat rentals. There is also a small store with snacks, drinks, ice, fishing gear and souvenirs .
An admissions fee is required to enter the park.
Parking is located outside of the park gate at Dairy Ridge Parking.
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