South Carolina--mountains Southern style
Date: 2015-05-08
This route is a mountain-lovers dream. It features an abundance of deep
blue streams, densely forested hills and beautiful scenic overlooks. It
will take you through the Blue Ridge Mountain Range. Make sure to pack
plenty of film, your hiking boots, and perhaps a fishing pole or two.
Start your drive in Gaffney, a wonderful Southern town complete with historic buildings, monuments and very friendly residents. Each July the town stages a huge peach festival--not to be missed! Heading west on Route 11, you'll see signs directing you to Cowpens National Battleground, which documents the American patriots' victory over British forces in 1781. Pick your rest stops and gas breaks accordingly, as both are sparse between I-26 and U.S. 25. Halfway between these roads, you'll reach the top of Hogback Mountain at an elevation of 3,211 feet. Once you arrive in Cleveland, make sure you make a quick jog over on U.S. 276 to Caesar's Head State Park. At the park you can take in scenic vistas, challenging hiking trails, and some beautiful waterfalls.
Nearby is Table Rock State Park, where you can rent cabins; have a bite to eat; go camping, boating, or fishing; take a swim; and hike even more nature trails. Once you return to Route 11, you'll cross Keowee River and head into Sumter National Forest. On this stretch of Route 11, you can check out Glassy Mountain with its sheer rock faces, and a 1,000-foot-high cliff. As you round the bend near Oconee Station, look for Route 28 and head northwest to Wallhalla. After you pass Wallhalla, look for Stumphouse, directing you to Issaqueena Falls. Stumphouse Park is dedicated to the 100-foot-tall waterfall, with its beautiful rainbow sprays and outstanding views of the surrounding area. This spot is especially impressive at sunrise or sunset.
The final portion of this trip will take you along parts of the Keowee River. If you've had your fill of nature by this point, you can head over to nearby Seneca or Clemson (of University fame) for a vast array of restaurants and nightlife.
Starting Point:
Gaffney, SC
Distance of Drive:
122 miles
Must Eat:
Arsenal
16 Shelby Hwy., Gaffney, SC 29340
Phone: 864-489-3707
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Year round
Points of Interest on Drive:
Caesar's Head State Park
Cowpens National Battle Ground
Issaqueena Falls
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