Hidden along Oconee Road near Mountain Rest, Sloan Bridge Picnic Area serves as a gateway to the Foothills Trail, Ellicott Rock Wilderness, and thousands of acres of protected mountain forest. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Discover one of Pickens County’s most overlooked scenic destinations. Glassy Mountain offers sweeping Upstate views, a unique granite summit, rich local history, and a family-friendly Kids in Parks TRACK Trail adventure that makes exploring nature fun for all ages.
Planning a visit to Table Rock State Park? Before you hit the trail, download this essential emergency guide. Learn where to find Wi-Fi, cell service, fuel, pharmacies, emergency medical care, and park assistance. Whether you’re hiking to the summit, camping for the weekend, or exploring the waterfalls, this guide provides important safety information, lost hiker tips, and key contacts that could prove invaluable when cell service is limited in the mountains. Save or print this guide before your adventure and explore Table Rock with confidence.
Discover Sassafras Mountain, the highest point in South Carolina, where breathtaking Blue Ridge views stretch for miles and a single raindrop can begin a journey to either the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico. Learn about the mountain’s unique geography, rich history, observation tower, wildlife, and why this Upstate landmark is one of the most fascinating places in the Southeast.
Poinsett Bridge remains closed while restoration work continues beyond the original reopening date. We recently visited the site to see the progress and take a closer look at the preservation efforts underway on South Carolina’s oldest surviving bridge.
Ticks are a common part of hiking in the South Carolina mountains, especially around Table Rock State Park. Learn which ticks are found in the area, how to prevent bites, and what to do if you discover a tick after your adventure.
Dark clouds rolling over the mountains are a familiar sight in Pumpkintown. Discover why the foothills receive so much spring and summer rainfall and how these seasonal storms have shaped life in the Oolenoy Valley for generations.
Hidden beside Highway 11, Wildcat Wayside Falls may be one of the most overlooked waterfalls in the South Carolina mountains. With roadside access, family-friendly trails, and multiple cascades tucked into the forest, this Upstate hidden gem is worth a stop on your next drive through the foothills.
Black bears are becoming more common across the South Carolina mountains, especially around Table Rock and the Upstate trail systems. Knowing how to react during a bear encounter can help keep both hikers and wildlife safe. From keeping dogs leashed to understanding bear behavior on the trail, these simple safety tips can help you enjoy the mountains responsibly and confidently.
Ever wondered what the colored marks on trees mean? Trail blazes are one of the easiest ways to stay on route and explore with confidence.