Have you seen the panoramic views at the top of Echo Mountain from Jump Off Rock? Just a few minutes outside Hendersonville, NC in Laurel Park, NC is Jump Off Rock Park. You’ll drive straight to the top for some gorgeous views, and while you’re there you can do a little hiking or enjoy the grassy mountain top lawn for a picnic with a view. Admission is free and that’s not the only reason this park is so great for families. Here’s why we love Jump Off Rock.
Jump Off Rock is a popular park near Hendersonville, NC at the top of Echo Mountain. The park features a grassy, manicured lawn with picnic tables and benches surrounded by a panoramic mountain view of both the Blue Ridge and Pisgah ranges. There is a large viewing area at the rock edge which is fenced with a pretty mountain-themed barrier so you can get right up close to the view. The park also contains three short hiking trails through rocky areas, as well as densely wooded areas.
It’s a beautiful place to spend some time. It’s quiet and peaceful and even on a warm sunny day the breezy mountain air had just a touch of crispness that really swept the tension of the school week right up and carried it off. It’s only about 15 minutes from Hendersonville, but you feel quite far away on the mountain top.
Why is it called Jump Off Rock?
No, there is definitely no jumping at Jump Off Rock. The name comes from a sad legend about a Cherokee Indian maiden whose young chief died in a battle. Overcome with grief, she jumped off the rock to her death. Hence, Jump Off Rock. It is a rather morbid tale and name, once you know about the tale, for a beautiful park, so we will leave that topic there.
Picnics at Jump Off Rock
The grassy lawn and beautiful views make this an epic picnic spot. You can spread a blanket in the sun on the grass, or pick a picnic table in the shade.
Don’t want to pack a picnic? There are some great places in downtown Hendersonville, NC where you can grab some sandwiches to go. If I had thought about it, we would have picked up some treats and sandwiches at Black Bear Coffee before heading up to the park.
Hiking at Jump Off Rock
The hiking trails here are very short, ranging from just .1 miles to .25 miles. They do not take very long at all to complete. That said, they offer quite a bit of variety. There is a trail that goes down alongside the overlook where you’ll be walking between boulders and over rocks. It’s moderately difficult, but also very short. The other two trails are located on the other side of the parking lot. They weave through woods with some moderate elevation changes.
Is Jump Off Rock a Good Place for Kids?
Yes! Jump Off Rock is definitely a good place to bring the kids for a number of reasons.
Drive to the top, so there are no tired legs required to take in that view or enjoy the crisp mountain air.
Short hiking trails have a lot of variation. The trails range from just .1 mile to .25 mile long and only take about 15 minutes.
You’re never very far from the car so you don’t have to lug that picnic or giant snack bag with you. Just leave it in the car until you’re ready for it.
But, don’t forget that you are at the top of a mountain. This is not a place to let the kids run off without supervision. While there are barriers at the steepest points. There are many places where a young child, or anyone really, could fall. As always, be careful, follow all signage, and supervise the kids.
There are no restroom facilities at Jump off Rock. If you start your day in Hendersonville, NC, you’ll find public restrooms at 125 5th Ave West, just around the corner from Team ECCO Aquarium. I highly recommend using the facilities here or at the Hendersonville Visitors Center before you head up to the mountain.
Plan on spending more time in Downtown Hendersonville? There are lots of things to do and delicious places to eat, so don’t miss this Hendersonville, NC Guide.
How Do you Get to Jump Off Rock?
Essentially, you’re going to hop on Laurel Park Highway, a windy wooded road past beautiful vistas, and take it all the way to the top of the mountain at Jump Off Rock. However, if you put the address into your phone or GPS, it will likely take you off Laurel Park Highway and through some residential streets. Either way, you’ll get there. But, should your GPS ask you to turn one way while you see a sign pointing to Jump Off Rock in the other direction, know that the signs are just pointing to keep you on Laurel Park Highway and you can just go whatever way looks like more fun to you. You’ll get there.
Jump Off Rock 4501 Laurel Park Highway Laurel Park, NC 28739
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Have you heard about the Beech Bottom Falls trail? KAG contributor Liene explores another one of the Upstate’s waterfalls, Beech Bottom Falls, also known as Pinnacle Falls! An adventurous trail will take your family across a footbridge straight out of a fairytale, to a viewing platform overlooking a beautiful waterfall. This is a perfect hike to combine with a day trip up to Sassafras Mountain, the highest point in South Carolina!
Parking Area and Locating the Trailhead for Beech Bottom Falls
Not only has the SC DNR rerouted the trail to Pinnacle Falls, but they’ve also renamed the waterfall Beech Bottom Falls! An improved parking lot awaits hikers on F Van Clayton Memorial Highway, located 1.5 miles north from the intersection of 178 (Moorefield Memorial Highway) and F Van Clayton in Rocky Bottom, SC. The Chimneytop Gap trailhead also offers access to the Foothills Trail; it is 2.1 miles east to Sassafras Mountain and 2.1 miles to Laurel Valley.
The Beech Bottom Falls Trail
The Beech Bottom Trail heads west on the old roadbed 400 ft north from the parking lot; if you miss the little shortcut trail, you just go north to the gravel road with the red gate and head west. The hike to the viewing platform on Beech Bottom Falls Trail 1.7 miles roundtrip, with about 300ft elevation gain.
After ½ mile, the old roadbed crosses Abner Creek. Hikers traverse a beautiful new footbridge, then immediately turn left onto another old roadbed – follow the signs to Beech Bottom Falls. You’ll recross Abner Creek on a second footbridge (a twin to the first), then start descending to the observation deck.
The view of the falls has been mostly cleared of trees, though in the winter you’ll have a slightly better view of the waterfall and creek. The view north across the mountains is also a testament to the destruction caused by the hemlock wooly adelgid; the tops of towering snags are eye level with the platform, with only a few hemlocks remaining to testify to their past dominance of the forest canopy.
From your perch on the southern cliffs of Abner Creek you can see a second observation deck, lower on the cliff. It is accessed from Pinnacle Falls Trail / Moorefield Memorial Highway. However, do not leave the trail or platform in this area, it is dangerous as well as damaging to sensitive plant communities. The trail can be slippery in wet weather. Plus, a narrow trail with steep drop-offs could possibly be difficult to navigate for pets and young children.
Beech Bottom Falls and viewing platform
A third route to Beech Bottom Falls (a.k.a. Pinnacle Falls) has been decommissioned by the SC DNR. This route is overgrown with brambles, blocked by downed trees, and features switchbacks dropping almost 300 feet in elevation to the base of the waterfall – it is not suggested for families with small children.
More Things to Do Near Beech Bottom Falls Trail
From the Chimneytop Gap area to the Sassafras Mountain parking lot it is 3.2 miles and definitely worth the drive. The visitor center/observation deck at the summit features 360˚ views from the highest point in South Carolina!
The Foothills Trail also utilizes Chimneytop Gap. This provides access to the Roundtop Mountain Passage of the Palmetto Trail and the Carolina Hemlock Loop Trail.
Horse Pasture Road is a nearby access point to the Jocassee Gorges and Jim Timmerman Natural Resources Area. The access point features attractions such as Jumping Off Rock overlook, Eastatoe Creek, and Laurel Fork Heritage Preserves.
Seven members of a youth group hiking in Utah were transported to hospitals Thursday after lightning struck the ground near them.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints youth group from Salina, Utah, were in the eastern part of Sevier County around 1:45 p.m. when a light rain began and the lightning hit, Sevier County Sheriff Nathan Curtis said in a statement.
“Approximately 50 youth felt the shock of the lightning,” Curtis said, adding that seven of the young people had “medical concerns due to the electrocution.”
Two had serious symptoms and were flown by helicopter to Primary Children’s Hospital in Lehi, Utah. Five others were transported by ambulances to Sevier Valley Hospital in Richfield and Gunnison Valley Hospital in Gunnison, Curtis said.
None of the injuries were considered life-threatening, according to Curtis, who said the other hikers were returned to their families in Salina, which is 139 miles (223 kilometers) south of Salt Lake City.
BANFF, Alberta, June 25, 2024 (Newswire.com)
– Canada’s premier ski and snowboard resort, Banff Sunshine Village, has a summer side waiting to be explored!
Access the Sunshine Meadows with Banff’s longest gondola ride. Riders ascend 7,200 ft high up the Canadian Rockies, during a 22-minute Sunshine Village gondola ride surrounded by majestic mountains and valleys. Take your sightseeing experience to greater heights aboard the Standish Express, followed by direct access to the meadows.
This summer, experience the Banff Sunshine Meadows in bloom, painted with Alberta’s famous wildflowers. Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, the Sunshine Meadows offers breathtaking alpine scenery, vibrant wildflowers, and diverse wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for hikers of all levels.
The Sunshine Meadows is renowned for its stunning vistas with six well-maintained and monitored trails that cater to all hikers, providing 360 degrees of unparalleled views of the Canadian Rockies.
Home to over 300 species of plants and 53 different mammals, the Sunshine Meadows’ three alpine lakes provide a serene habitat for a diverse range of wildlife.
Extend your adventure with a stay at Banff Sunshine’s boutique hotel, the Sunshine Mountain Lodge. Wake up to Summer in full bloom with 10km of maintained trails right at your doorstep.
As the snow melts in the summer months, Banff Sunshine transforms into the perfect playground for nature lovers. Hiking and sightseeing the Sunshine Meadows opens June 28 until Sept. 22, 2024. On-site amenities include dining options, rest areas, and a visitor information center.
About Banff Sunshine Village: Located 7,000 feet above sea level (2,133 meters) lives Banff Sunshine Village, nestled between the peaks of the Canadian Rockies in Banff National Park. The world-class resort is known for its all-natural snow, as skiers and riders visit the premier alpine resort during its seven-month-long winter ski season, spanning from mid-November to late May. Starting late June, summer blooms up at the Banff Sunshine Meadows, as Alberta’s natural wildflowers paint hundreds of untouched and preserved acres with a vibrant and colorful landscape. From skiing and riding on Canada’s best snow in the winter to hiking the Sunshine Meadows during the summer, Banff Sunshine is the ultimate year-round destination for nature enthusiasts. The fully serviced Canadian Rockies resort is open until Sept. 22, 2024 for summer operations.
For more information about summer at Sunshine, please visit skibanff.com or email Kendra Scurfield, VP of Marketing, Brand and Communications at kscurfield@skibanff.com or visit banffsunshinemeadows.com.
Are you new to hiking in the Upstate, SC and looking for some tips on hiking for beginners? We’ve got you covered with the best hikes for newbies plus what to take with you to make sure you’re well prepared to enjoy our beautiful trails in the Upstate and Western North Carolina.
The mountains are calling and everyone wants to go. And that’s what happened during the pandemic and really, people haven’t stopped answering the call ever since. Campgrounds are booked months in advance. Popular trailheads are packed. And hiker etiquette has been thrown out the window. But there’s a lot of hope because if you have been wanting to join the thousands of hikers on our beautiful trails and aren’t sure where to go, what to bring, and how to act, we’ve got you covered.
I’ve been hiking since I was a kid but there were many years that I was off the trail. It was only when I moved here to the Upstate that I picked it up again and now, it’s a weekly occurrence at least. I’ve taken my kids on hikes all over this part of South Carolina throughout Greenville, Oconee and Pickens Counties. I’ve hiked probably hundreds of miles through the Western NC mountains and into the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s my happy place and my kids really enjoy the experiences we’ve had together on the trails. I’m including the best trail etiquette tips to get you started and make sure you have a great time outdoors plus some of my favorite trail recommendations.
I see posts on social media all the time asking about trails for kids, best hikes in the area, or how to start hiking alone. It’s pretty simple: just go. I mean, do your research first, but just go. It’s walking, just in a way cooler setting than you would usually do in a parking lot or your neighborhood.
To find trails that you may enjoy, I highly recommend the free AllTrails app. I love this app (for the most part). You can search for trails by how long they are, how easy or difficult they may be, how far away they are from you, if they include a waterfall or not, etc. I’ve found some pretty amazing trails through that app. Know that the distances are sometimes wrong though so I usually try to double check through Google and local hiking groups I’m a member of (more on that below).
SCTrails.net is another great resource. I’ll browse that site more on my laptop than my phone and it doesn’t have as many reviews of trails but it does have some hidden gems that I didn’t find on AllTrails.
Joining local Facebook groups is also a great way to find lesser traversed trails or find new ones. I love Girls Who Hike SC, Girls Who Hike NC, North Carolina Waterfalls, South Carolina Hiking & Adventures, and Hiking the Smokies. All of these have really fantastic advice on trails to hit and often their length and difficulty. And if you have questions, just ask.
Trail Etiquette & Tips
It’s very important to know the basic trail etiquette tips and laws of the area when you go hiking. Most are common sense but well, people don’t always use that gift. All these listed below are so that you have a great time and others around you also have fun!
Wear proper clothing and bring enough water and snacks. Flip flops and slides aren’t a good hiking shoe of choice. And the summer is hot. Bring water.
Be prepared and take the 10 essentials. The common 10 essentials to take on every hike are water, food, a flashlight, navigation, insulation, first aid kit, sun protection, matches or a fire starter, basic repair kit, and emergency shelter like a space blanket. I also carry pepper spray on every hike. Day hikers are the most vulnerable hiking population to get in trouble and possibly not survive if something goes wrong because they aren’t prepared.
Leave no trace (LNT). The LNT principle is that whatever you bring into the forest goes out with you. No trash, no sign except footprints that you were there. This also means not to disturb the environment, going off trail, picking flowers or trampling on brush. Here’s how to follow all seven LNT principles.
Keep your kids in sight at all times. Sure, it’s fun for them to run all over the place but there are many, many unforeseen things on trails that a cute little person may not see that could be harmful – a well-hidden snake, an unleashed dog, a blown out part of the trail. Keep them in sight at all times.
Leash your dog. Leash laws apply everywhere and there are signs at every trail I’ve been to that tell owners to leash dogs. It doesn’t matter if your dog is friendly. Many people have a fear of dogs, are allergic, etc. and by not leashing your dog, you are infringing on everyone else’s right to enjoy the outdoors. Plus, the liability of a possible, even accidental, attack on a child, adult, or other dog/wildlife in the area just isn’t worth it. Here are area dog parks if you’d like to let your dog off leash.
Stay on the trail. Going off trail can not only be dangerous given unforeseen slips or hidden snakes, but there are wildflowers, micro ecosystems, and animals whose environment is at risk and it’s sometimes really easy to get lost if you decide to go off trail.
Lock your car and keep electronics out of sight. Lately there have been several cases of cars broken into at trailheads all over Western NC and the Upstate. Leave your valuables at home, take them with you hiking, or stash them out of sight in your car.
Stay off waterfalls. I cannot emphasize this enough. Read the news. One week over the summer, three people, including a teenager and someone on a rescue team, fell to their deaths at waterfalls. And watch your kids because they don’t know the dangers these beauties can have. All it takes is one slip, that’s it.
Don’t do this
Know your fitness level and the attention span of your kids. Choose a trail that you know you can do and that won’t be too long for your kids. And bring snacks for your kids because they are perfect for bribery.
Do your research. There are many hugely popular trails here in the Upstate and within a reasonable driving distance. If you get to a trail too late, you may be turned away at the gate or you won’t be able to find parking at the trailhead. Have a backup plan if that happens or go really early in the day.
Get a map or use one on your phone. I can’t tell you how many times my map on AllTrails – or even better, the free Gaia app – saved me a lot of frustration from getting lost. When I didn’t have a map on my phone or a paper map, I ended up tacking on several miles to a hike with my kids, who somehow don’t hate me for that hot, very long day.
Tell someone where you’re going. I do this when I’m hiking alone or with my kids. I mention where I’m going and what time to expect me to come back. It’s a basic safety precaution.
Great Trails to Hike
Now for the fun part! We have a huge Hiking Guide on our site which has links to stories about trails that are best for kids, trails that have a big waterfall reward, and other favorite local hikes.
These are my favorite trails in the area though:
Carrick Creek at Table Rock: This is a two-mile loop that is fairly easy but does have some inclines so you’ll get a workout. It’s a good one for kids but just be sure to watch them since it does cross some bridges without rails and runs next to a fast moving creek. It’s a fun trail that begins and ends at Carrick Creek Falls where you can wade, which feels amazing on a hot day. If you don’t have a park passport, you’ll have to pay for entry to the park.
Carrick Creek Falls
Rainbow Falls at Gorges State Park: This is a good hour and twenty minutes from Greenville right across the border in North Carolina. This trail is around four miles round trip and not difficult getting to the falls, which are enormous and gorgeous. But going back, you’ll be huffing and puffing. My kids first did it when they were 6 and 3 and made it with a lot of breaks. We’ve done it again since then but always pack enough water, especially in the summer heat.
Moore Cove Falls: This is in Pisgah Forest in North Carolina and is such a fantastic trail because it’s easy, about 1.4 miles round trip, and it ends at a spectacular waterfall that you can walk behind. The trailhead is just past Looking Glass Falls, which is a stunning roadside waterfall. Plan to drive about an hour and twenty minutes to get there.
Moore Cove Falls
Wildcat Wayside: This trail is perfect for kids because it’s just a mile loop that’s really easy and starts and ends at a waterfall where you can wade in. The parking area is on Hwy 11 and it’s just a roadside pulloff. There is usually someone selling boiled peanuts or hats there. It’s about 50 minutes or less from Greenville.
Conestee Nature Preserve: Located in Mauldin, Conestee is a great introduction to hiking for young kids. With a combination of paved trails, unpaved trails and wooden walkways, plus a wildlife habitat this is a fun place where you can often see turtles or even a snake or two. There is no entrance fee and there’s a playground and shelter as well.
Twin Ponds at the Blue Wall Preserve:This is an easy, 3.5 round trip hike that combines two loops around two ponds. I especially like this one in the fall because the colors are fantastic. It’s a small parking area so get there early to avoid having to go elsewhere. It’s near Landrum so really close to Greenville.
Twin Ponds at the Blue Wall Preserve
Raven Cliff Falls: This waterfall is so pretty as it falls over a sheer cliff more than 400 feet. This trail is about 4 miles and will take you to an observation deck to see the falls. You’re not going to be close but you can see them. I like this trail for its beauty and the fact that it’s not very hard. The trailhead parking lot is really small so you need to go early. It’s a little over an hour from Greenville.
Frying Pan Lookout Tower: If you’d like a wow factor hike without having to go to a waterfall, this is it. The Frying Pan Lookout Tower is an old fire tower in Pisgah Forest and if you have no fear of heights, you can climb the rickety old stairs to get a 360 degree view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a short 1.5 mile trail but the first half is almost all uphill. It’s not terribly hard though (when I went, we had kids ranging from age 2 – 8 and they did fine). The drive is around 90 minutes from Greenville.
View from Frying Pan Tower
Bearwallow Mountain: I love this trail because the views from the top are gorgeous and 360 degrees. And you can get there via a trail or a gravel road (walking, not driving). It’s a two-mile roundtrip hike and I’ve done it many times with kids as young as toddlers. There’s plenty of space for children – or anyone- to run around at the top also. The photo opps are fantastic and it’s a little over an hour drive from Greenville.
Adults can have fun at Bearwallow Mountain, too!
Our readers really love Dupont State Forest, just an hour from Greenville, as well as Jones Gap State Park. Both are hugely popular and are almost always crowded to if you choose to go, go early. There are several really easy trails there (make sure you have a map or one on your phone).
Same with Jones Gap – it’s a really small parking lot that fills up fast on weekends. I you go to Jones Gap State Park on the weekends, you will need to purchase a parking spot ahead of time for $5, even if you have a state park passport. SC State Parks are also limiting the number of cars allowed and will close once they hit capacity.
Now that you know the basics and have a few trails to try, head out on your hike!
Have you visited Calhoun Falls State Park? My family and I recently started the Ultimate Outsider Challenge through South Carolina State Parks. We’ve quickly made our way through most of the parks in the Upstate and wanted to start branching out to some of the ones further away. When I saw a friend’s pictures of her family’s camping trip to Calhoun Falls State Park, I knew I had to go see it for myself.
Situated on the shores of the beautiful Lake Russell, these Calhoun Falls campground sites are some of the most desired in the SC state park system. There are 86 standard (RV or tent sites with water and electricity) and 14 walk-in tent sites. We stayed at one of the walk-in sites which are scattered along one of the points jutting out into the lake.
The tent sites do not have electric hook-ups but they do have shared water pumps. I chose T8 because it has one of the larger tent pads. We just bought a new tent and I was nervous about it being too big for the other sites. After being there though, I think it would have been fine at any of them.
Our site was the closest to the parking area and had a trail down to the water. The shore was grassy where we were but some of the other sites had little rocky beach areas that would be great spots for kids to splash.
The tent-only campground has an outdoor shower area and single bathrooms. The standard campground nearby has two full-bathroom buildings with showers and two playgrounds. There is also a basketball court and tennis courts. RV campers will have to contact the park directly to ensure golf carts are allowed.
Calhoun Fall State Park camping is highly recommended for families with children, but with close water access, be mindful of younger children who can not swim.
Cedar Bluff Nature Trail
During our stay, we checked out the Cedar Bluff Nature Trail. It is the only hiking trail at the park and is a 1.75-mile easy-to-moderate loop hike through the forest. The signage is not great so be careful as you go. We took a wrong turn at one point and ended up at one of the campground playgrounds instead of finishing the loop as we had planned. But it’s a pretty trail with multiple wooden bridges and steps and we didn’t mind getting lost in nature for a while.
More Things to Do at Calhoun Falls State Park
We stuck to camping and hiking during our visit, but Calhoun Falls offers many other activities, especially on the lake. It’s the perfect spot for boating, paddling, and fishing. There is also a marina with rental boat slips available.
If you forget anything at home, the gift shop has you covered. It is definitely the nicest state park store I’ve been to! We stopped in on our first morning to register and to get some cold treats for the kids and I was impressed at how much it had to offer from bundles of wood and s’mores ingredients to souvenirs and clothing items.
Visit Calhoun Falls State Park
Location
46 Maintenance Shop Road Calhoun Falls, SC 864.447.8267
Hours and Admission
The park is open from 6am – 6pm (extended to 9 p.m. during Daylight Saving Time) and the Park Office is open from 9am – 5pm, daily.
Admission is $3 for adults and $1 for children age 6-15. Children 5 and under are free. Admission is free for Park Passport holders.
Lansford Canal State Park’s Rocky Shoals Spider lilies bloom by the thousands for just a few weeks. It’s the largest stand of these lilies found anywhere. While this spectacle of mother nature isn’t the only reason to visit Lansford Canal State Park, it is one of the most popular. The Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies only bloom for a few weeks a year. Plus, the state park is home to the largest population of Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies in the world, so it’s a bucket list item for nature lovers. So, we have all the info you’ll need to get a peek at them.
Landsford Canal State Park Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies
Enjoy a Weekend Away While You Explore Landsford Canal State Park With Our Guide To York County, SC
Find a Rocky Shoals Spider Lily: Catawba River
Catching a glimpse of these beautiful flowers isn’t impossible, but it will take a little bit of planning and spontaneity. High water levels thwarted my attempts at seeing the lilies in 2020 at the Catawba and bad weather. Lily season is so short, I just had to make it happen. In 2021, I was determined to share this with our readers! With a little help from the SC State Park Lily Watch Updates page and better weather these past few years, and we finally made it during peak bloom!
I believe the Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies are best viewed up close. For that to happen, you will need to paddle to the middle of the river. The only way to do this is to BYO kayak and be an experienced paddler. Unfortunately, time restrictions didn’t permit me to bring our kayaks on this trip. If you have a kayak of your own and would like a guided tour to join, The Catawba Riverkeeper group offers them for $25 per person. You can choose to participate on dates that include a kayak in your ticket, or bring your own for a cheaper price. 2024 Dates: Saturday, May 25 and Sunday May 26, 2024 – 10 AM and 3 pm | Saturday, June 8 and Sunday June 9th, 2024 – 10 am – 3 pm
If you are going to paddle the river without a tour, be warned that it is not for novice paddlers. This isn’t a “Break in the new paddler” type experience. The Catawba River within the park includes a canal system with Class I and borderline Class II rapids (with sufficient rain, class III is possible). If you are used to navigating the flat water of Upstate lakes, you could find yourself in a bind. For experienced paddlers, the put-in is located at the top of the second parking area after you drive past the playground and take a right.
Trails at Landsford Canal State Park
The Landsford Canal State Park offers some wonderful trails that have visibility of the lilies. The lilies are viewable from a viewing platform on the shore after a short hike. There are two trail options to choose from. The shorter trail through the woods, or the longer more scenic riverside trail. To access the trailhead, you’ll park in front of the playground area and take the path past the cabin and to the right.
The Canal Trail When you come to the Kids In Parks (more on that later) activity station, you will take the trail to the right. The 1.5 mile Canal Trail follows the 200-year-old ruins of a stone canal and mill site that ran to the river and made it commercially navigable from 1820 to 1835. Hence the name of the park. This is a shorter trail to the viewing platform that is level and easy. Hiking from the Kids In Parks sign to the viewing platform is roughly 20 minutes. Due to exposed tree roots, this is NOT a stroller-friendly trail.
The Nature Trail You will want to follow the river and head down the trail to the left from the Kids In Parks sign. Several spots make a great photo along the way next to the river. While this is noted as a longer trail by the State Park website, we found both to be approximately 20 minutes one way. This trail is flat and suitable for a sport stroller if necessary.
The lilies bloom from mid-May to mid-June, depending on the rainfall and the river. To monitor the blooms, head to the Lily Watch Updates page.
Landsford Canal State Park Canal Trail (L) & Nature Trail (R)
Kids in Parks is a Free Program Where Your Kids Can Earn Prizes at Lansford Canal State Park
Kids in Parks recently expanded to several South Carolina State Parks. The program is definitely something your family should sign up for this summer. The program offers a user-friendly website that includes an always-expanding list of nationwide locations considered TRACK trails. It allows families to search for locations near their hometown or even for an out-of-town adventure.
The program includes over 280 TRACK Trails in 12+ states, Washington DC, and the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation, with dozens of locations just a short drive away in North Carolina and several new locations in South Carolina. There are even activities for you to do in your own backyard!
Year-Round Fun At Landsford Canal State Park
Landsford State Park is a great place to explore year-round. The state park doesn’t offer camping facilities. However, there are picnic shelters, and picnic tables on the river banks. Each have their own charcoal grills. There are restrooms, a playground, and if you are lucky you might catch a glimpse of a Bald Eagle. Plus, it is only a 30 minute drive to Downtown Rock Hill, so you can make an epic day trip.
Have you tried hiking Jones Gap State Park? Just a 25-mile ride from Downtown Greenville will place your family in a breathtaking scene of mountain forest greenery. Where boulder-hopping fun, waterfall viewing, trout fishing, primitive camping, and more await as you stare up in wonder at the Eastern Continental Divide. Hiking Jones Gap is fun for all skill levels and groups as there are trails for everyone – usually with a reward of a waterfall find!
Jones Gap parking policies include reserving parking spaces for visiting the park on Saturdays and Sundays before 2 pm. The cost to reserve a parking space is $5. Spots will be held until 1 pm. You can reserve a parking spot at Jones Gap here. No lines will be allowed to form at the gate of the park. Once the park is at capacity the gates will be closed and not opened until 1 pm. You can check to see if parking is full before your visit.
As you enter the park, you will immediately come upon the beautiful Middle Saluda River as it winds its way through the forest floor, babbling around corners and cascading over boulders. Many strenuous trails lead to waterfalls throughout the park, including the beautiful (but strenuous) trail which leads to Rainbow Falls and it is possible to even hike from Jones Gap to Caesars Head (just not recommended with tots).
Luckily for families with little ones, a popular moderate trail follows the river to a waterfall, allowing hikers to enjoy the river along every step of the way. This trail is a small portion of the Jones Gap Trail and it leads to Jones Gap Falls.
For a round-trip hike of 2.6 miles (1.3 each way), it has a lot to offer! Boulders are strewn about the moderate trail which has always proved very entertaining for my kiddos – hopping, scaling, and launching off left and right. There is, of course, the river. Always available for a cool dip or a nice picnic.
And eventually, there is the waterfall “reward”! A fan waterfall splashes over a 50-foot drop, spilling over a staircase of granite ledges and misting little faces with excitement. Pack a picnic and plan to spend a few hours on this lovely trail with your kiddos. The trail is so beautiful that if your kids couldn’t stick it out to the falls, nothing would be lost alongside that gorgeous river.
Parking at Jones Gap
An important side note about the park is that there is only a small parking area available. The park now requires parking space reservations on the weekends. No line is allowed to form at the gate. Unused spots open at 1 pm. Monday through Friday no reservations are required, though you may have to wait for a parking spot. If I were to haul my kiddos out there and find the parking lot full, I’d plan on hopping over to Table Rock or Caesars Head as a backup plan instead.
Everything is better with a four-legged friend — especially hiking. As residents of metro Phoenix, we have no shortage of local mountain ranges and nature parks that welcome dogs (on leashes, of course)…
The SC7 Expedition is once again exploring the state from the mountains to the sea, this year in April and May 2024! The name South Carolina 7 represents seven natural wonders in our state, including National Geographic-recognized ecological areas and historical sites such as the Jocassee Gorges, Sassafras Mountain, and the Chattooga River.
Kidding Around covered this epic month-long event in 2021; you can find everything about that year’s route in our article South Carolina’s Top 30 Beautiful Natural Spots! This year the team is following a similar path across the state, with a few new locations – including several in the Upstate.
What is the SC7 Expedition
The first SC7 expedition took place in July of 2020, following the Palmetto Trail across the state to highlight the ‘Carolina 7,’ seven geographic wonders unique to the Palmetto State. The purpose of the expedition was to bring attention to the natural marvels that need our protection, and the multitude of outdoor adventures that await us in our own backyard.
Along the way, the expedition discusses topics such as conservation, adult & childhood fitness, outdoor therapy, floodwater mitigation issues, and more. This year the SC7 will continue to include a “family expedition” aspect, and everyone is invited to join in on the fun of exploring the state that we call home – from the mountains to the sea!
SC7 Expedition; Photo Credit: SC7
Get Started on the SC7 Expedition
First things first: download your free copy of the 2024 SC7 Expedition Field Guide! A day-by-day handbook for this year’s expedition, it contains trail information, local places to see, and information on the various outings. Even if you’re not joining the expedition on the trail, the guide is a tremendous resource for exploring the various regions of South Carolina!
You can also download the SC7 Outdoor Adventure Book, perfect for kids who are joining in. The booklet has tons of information about our state, fun facts about wildlife, ecological principles, and so much more!
Next, check your calendar for the public participation days. The 2024 SC7 Expedition Field Guide has more information on how to participate, or you can follow along virtually through daily Facebook and Instagram videos.
The expedition will be in the Upstate the last week in April, though some of the Midlands locations can be done in a day trip from Greenville/Spartanburg, including the Enoree Passage of the Palmetto Trail, Congaree National Park, and Columbia.
2024 SC7 Key Events
April 22 – May 3, 2024: SC7 Earth Day Kick-off event statewide will happen on April 22, 2024. Hikes & adventures in the Upstate over the proceeding two weeks include the Chattooga River rafting, the Oconee Passage, Sassafras Mountain, Jocassee Gorges, Jones Gap State Park, Pickens Doodle Trail, downtown Greenville, the Swamp Rabbit Trail, the Cottonwood Trail, and the Mary Black Rail Trail.
Sassafras Mountain
April 22, 2024: Earth Day Kickoff Event! Join Lt. Governor Pamella Evette, the South Carolina 7, and Palmetto Pride in a Statewide Litter Cleanup on Earth Day 2024. The county that picks up the most litter by weight will earn the SC Environmental Stewardship Award. For more information on the litter pickup and to get involved, contact Abbey Crocker (abbey@scnhc.com).
2023April 27, 2024: Pickens Doodle Day! Join Easley residents in an exploration of the Doodle Trail, 7.5 miles of flat trail for hiking, biking, or walking. The event begins at 9 am at the Pickens trailhead: 409 E. Cedar Rock Street.
May 4, 2024: Enoree Passage Hike public participation day! The Palmetto Trail winds 10 miles through pine ridges and hardwood bottomlands of the Enoree. The public is invited to hike the second portion of the Enoree Passage, starting at Brickhouse Campground. Arrival at 8:30 am and the hike begins at 9 am.
SC7 Key Events in the Midlands
May 5th, 2024: Hike the Columbia Riverwalk, and the West Columbia Riverfront Park. Event begins at 3 pm, at which time the shuttle will leave from Savage Craft Ale Works to the trailhead. The hike length is 3.5 miles.
Newberry, SC
SC7 Key Events in the Lowcountry
May 11th, 2024: Join the SC7 team on a 4-mile beach walk, an out and back along the coast from Myrtle Beach State Park to Sunset Beach and back. The event begins at 9 am at Myrtle Beach State Park.
May 18th, 2024: Cooper River Bridge Hike. Hike the Cooper River Bridge with the Mayors of Charleston and Mount Pleasant! The event begins at 9 am, and participants coming from either side will meet the team in the middle of the bridge for a group photo opp.
Photo Credit: SC7 Expedition
The Adventure Continues
There is so much to do and see in South Carolina that it will take far longer than just a month to get to it all. And, while it is exciting to join an expedition to explore your way across the state, it can be just as thrilling to discover new places with your children and family.
It is our hope that the destinations featured here can serve as an outline to get you started, a framework for travel and exploration across the state!! Happy adventuring, South Carolina!
Waterfalls, wilderness areas, wildflowers and epic views… No, we’re not talking about a national park somewhere out west, but our very own Foothills Trail! Backpacker magazine rated it as “one of the best long trails (fifty-plus miles) in the country,” and it traverses the Jocassee Gorges, which National Geographic named one of “50 of the World’s Last Great Places—Destinations of a Lifetime”… this isn’t just any walk in the park! Well-suited for a through-hike for families looking for a challenge, yet accessible even for the shortest day-trip ramble, the Foothills Trail is rapidly gaining notoriety as one of the premier trails in the southeast.
Totaling 77 miles, the trail stretches from Oconee to Table Rock State Park with additional spur trails to numerous waterfalls and Caesars Head State Park. Major trailheads are located at the state parks, as well as US 178, SC 130, and SC 107. You’ll find all this and more on the Foothills trail’s website, and this interactive map has access points, campsites, water sources, and other info.
It can be daunting to choose the right hike for your family. We’ve put together a guide to help identify shorter hikes on the Foothills Trail that will take you to points of interest, as well as give you the info you’ll need to plan your trip: parking, hike difficulty, cost, etc. The trail has been broken down into sections, the numbers corresponding to the system the Foothills Trail Conservancy uses on their website: “A” denoting access points and “S” spur trails.
The push to protect the Appalachian Foothills began in the 1960s, with Clemson University and the US Forest Service (USFS) leading the way. The first component connecting Oconee to Table Rock was built in Sumter National Forest by the USFS, and by the early 1970s, the Foothills Trail effort was gaining momentum. Duke Power offered to build and maintain the central section of the Foothills Trail during the process of planning the Bad Creek Hydroelectric project, and in 1974 the Foothills Trail Conference was established.
The 77-mile trail linking Oconee and Table Rock State Parks was finished in 1981, and for the last 40 years the Conservancy has promoted and supported the trail through trail maintenance and developing the Foothills Trail Guidebook and map. To become a member, please visit the FTC’s website! Join Now – Foothills Trail Conservancy
The Foothills Trail
Table Rock State Park (A1)
Chances are, you’ve been on the Foothills Trail already, as a portion of this section shares trail with the beloved Carrick Creek Trail in Table Rock. The one mile of trail that follows Carrick Creek up from the Nature Center has a waterfall, countless cascades, and has a gentle grade with well-maintained trail, perfect for younger children.
From there you can keep hiking, although the trail gets much steeper. A short spur goes up to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain, but all the views are found along the Foothills Trail: Bald Knob (3.6 miles from Table Rock) and Drawbar Cliffs (4.6 miles from Table Rock). Both make great destinations, though be warned they are difficult hikes; less experienced hikers will want to stick to Carrick Creek!
Know before you go: State Park pass or park admission required, hikers must register at kiosk at Nature Center.
Sassafras Mountain (A2)
Another spot on the Foothills Trail you may have already checked out is Sassafras Mountain. Remember, as it’s the highest point in the state, any direction you hike from the summit will be descending… which means you’ll have to go back up to get to your car!
The easy way out(side): The observation tower and the rock outcrops located adjacent to the medium-sized parking area guarantee that you will not have to go far to soak in those views! Remember to bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the picnic tables.
Know before you go: Parking is free, but the road up can be closed in the winter for inclement weather; to check on the status, call the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office at 864.898.5500.
Sassafras Mountain
Chimneytop Gap (A3)
Just two miles from the summit, the section of trail from Chimneytop to the top of Sassafras makes for a nice day hike. Start at the Chimneytop parking area to get the hard part out of the way first; the views at the peak will be so much more spectacular as for having earned them with the climb up!
Know before you go: Up until Sassafras the Foothills Trail has just been passing back and forth into the Jim Timmerman Natural Resources Area at Jocassee Gorges, but after Chimneytop it heads right into the heart of the wilderness area. Be prepared for fewer road access points and limited cell service!
Caesar’s Head Trail: Sassafras (S1) to Caesars Head (S2) spur
The 14.2 miles from Sassafras Mountain to Caesars Head are strenuous, but the trail borders Greenville watershed property, some of the most pristine forest in South Carolina. A highlight of this section is Raven Cliff Falls, the tallest waterfall in the state. To reach a viewing platform across the valley from the falls, hike in from the Caesars Head SP end (use the Raven Cliff Falls parking area) – the 4-mile in-and-out hike is moderate in difficulty.
Know before you go: State Park pass or park admission is required, hikers must register at kiosk. The parking lot fills up fast, plan to get an early start and have a backup plan if the overflow lot is full.
Caesar’s Head
Laurel Valley (A4)
The medium-sized parking area on Horespasture Road serves as a gateway to the Jim Timmerman Natural Resources Area at Jocassee Gorges and marks the last vehicle access point to the Foothills Trail for many miles. A popular day-hike destination from this trailhead is Virginia Hawkins Falls, an 8.5 round trip, although by driving a bit further on Horespasture Road you can reach a second trailhead that cuts down the mileage to 2.6 miles in-and-out.
The easy way out(side): Take a slow, scenic drive on Horsepasture Road, with a stop at Jumping Off Rock to take in one of the most epic views of the Jocassee Gorges.
Know before you go: Horsepasture Road is a primitive road maintained by the SC DNR. It’s open year-round, but allow for extra travel time – the 9 miles to Jumping Off Rock can take around an hour.
Eastatoe Gorge: Laurel Valley (S3) to the Narrows (S4)
A moderate hike of 5.4 miles round trip (with a steep, if short section that might tend towards strenuous), a Foothills Trail spur takes hikers into the Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve. This section is characterized by amazing spring wildflowers and a view of Eastatoe Creek as it funnels through a narrow rock channel called “the Narrows.”
Know before you go: Park at the Laurel Valley parking area, not at the gate a little further up the road where the trail enters the forest – the road there serves as emergency access, and blocking the gate can get you heavy fines and possibly towed.
Bad Creek Access (A7)
The Bad Creek Hydroelectric Site is a 360 acre “pump-back” storage facility that pumps water from Lake Jocassee and stores it until needed for peak energy demands. It has a scenic viewpoint over Lake Jocassee as well as a public parking area providing access to the Foothills Trail, the Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area, and Lower Whitewater Falls.
The easy way out(side): It is 0.7 miles one-way from the parking area to the Foothills Trail and Whitewater River, a nice destination for those looking for a short hike with some time by the water. The viewing platform for Lower Whitewater Falls is a little more of a challenge, 4 miles in-and-out.
Know before you go: There are three boat access points to the Foothills Trail in the 33 miles from Laurel Valley to Bad Creek Access (Laurel Fork A5, Canebrake A6 and Horsepasture River) and a 5-mile connector trail (Cane Brake Trail from Frozen Creek), though no vehicle access save for a few intersections with 4WD forest roads. This is a popular section for camping, especially with families and novice hikers looking to get a feel for backpacking.
The Foothills Trail Hiking group on Facebook can be very helpful for planning purposes, with advice from experienced hikers/campers as well as up-to-date trail conditions. It is very important to be well-prepared if entering this section, as there is little-to-no cell service, and you are crossing through the heart of the Jim Timmerman Natural Resources Area at Jocassee Gorges in addition to Laurel Fork Heritage Preserve, NC Gorges State Park and the NC Gamelands.
Upper Whitewater Falls (A8)
The NC Hwy 281 Upper Whitewater Overlook parking area proves access to spectacular views of Upper Whitewater Falls, the highest waterfall east of the Rockies!
The easy way out(side): A paved, accessible, ¼ mile trail leads to the upper observation area, then 154 steps further you’ll have reached the lower observation area. You can continue on to descend to the river – just remember, you’ll have to climb back up!
Know before you go: A parking fee of $3 per vehicle goes toward continued improvements of the park. Please don’t venture off-trail, as deaths and serious injuries have occurred here!
River at the bottom of Whitewater Falls
Sloan Bridge (A9)
The 5.5-mile hike from Whitewater to Sloan Bridge is along a ridge, and has superb views of Jocassee in the winter, but the majority of visitors are drawn to Sloan Bridge for a picnic at one of the tables, to cool down in the East Fork of the Chattooga River, or for a short hike to one of the several waterfalls to the south.
The easy way out(side): After a picnic at Sloan Bridge, drive over to the nearby Wigington Overlook for a picture-perfect view of Lake Jocassee.
Know before you go: There are no trash receptacles at Sloan Bridge Picnic Area; remember, if you pack it in, please pack it out!
Fish Hatchery Road (A10)
It’s just 3.3 miles to Sloan Bridge from Fish Hatchery Road, and with multiple trails in the area, many hikers plan a loop to make a day out of their visit to this corner of the state.
The easy way out(side): Just a little bit further up the road is the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery: take a self-guided tour, go fishing, have a picnic, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Ellicott Rock Wilderness Area!
Know before you go: A visit to the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery is free, but if you want to feed the fish, bring quarters for the fish food dispensers.
Burrell’s Ford (A11)
There is so much to do in this remote corner of the state! In addition to numerous major waterfalls, Burrell’s Ford offers camping, fishing, and picnicking along the Chattooga Wild & Scenic River. For more on Burrell’s Ford, see our article Burrells Ford Campground: Camp Near Scenic Waterfalls in Upstate, SC.
Know before you go: Burrell’s Ford is free, but can be popular on weekends. Get there early for parking and first choice of a campsite!
Spoonauger Falls
The Highway 107 access points
Headed south on Highway 107 from Sloan Bridge you’ll pass several access points to the Foothills Trail. However, being small dirt lots that only have room for a handful of cars, we’ve grouped them together for this guide.
Nicholson Ford Access: This access point to the Foothills Trail is also the trailhead for hikes to Licklog and Pigpen Falls (Explore Licklog and Pigpen Falls via Foothills Trail | AllTrails). The gravel road can sometimes get a little washed out, if you would rather stay on pavement park at Cheohee Road.
Cheohee Road (A12): Just off Highway 107, Cheohee Road is also known as Winding Stairs Rd. A gravel forest road leads to several popular waterfalls and a Forest Service campground.
Jumping Branch Trailhead (A13): The last access point before entering Oconee State Park!
The easy choice: Enjoy Oconee State Park! From multiple hiking trails leading to historic sites, views, and waterfalls, to putt-putt golf, boat rentals, and a beach – Oconee has got it all!!
Know before you go: State Park pass or park admission is required, hikers must register at kiosk at Nature Center
Hike the Entire Foothills Trail
Hikers who complete all 77 miles of The Foothills Trail—from Oconee State Park to Table Rock State Park – are eligible for the Peregrine Award, which was started in 2011 in honor of longtime FTC member Heyward Douglass. The word “peregrine” comes from the Spanish word “peregrino,” which means pilgrim. It is also the name of one of Heyward’s favorite birds; he was instrumental in the re-introduction of the Peregrine Falcon to the mountains of Upstate South Carolina. For more information, please visit the Foothills Trail website.
Hopefully, this guide helps you identify which sections of the Foothills Trail are closest to your home, and will assist in figuring out how you can best get your family out on the trail this summer! Please remember to hike within your comfort and skill level, and always plan ahead – research the trail, local regulations, weather, hazards, and what to do in an emergency. Happy hiking!
Wildflower season is a magical time that draws visitors and residents alike to area hiking trails in search of bursts of natural color. Lucky for us, Phoenix is surrounded by beautiful landscapes waiting to be explored…
Keowee-Toxaway State Park straddles Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway (Hwy. 11) between Devils Fork State Park and Long Shoals Wayside Park, one of eight South Carolina State Parks located along the edge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment.
Known for spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the 1,000 acre park is considered a gateway to the Jocassee Gorges, the area defined by a series of steep-sided gorges delivering mountain rivers and streams down to the Piedmont of South Carolina.
Things to do at Keowee-Toxaway State Park
Have a picnic
The state park is split by Highway 11, with the picnic shelters located on a short loop to the south. Five picnic shelters are available for rental. The picnic tables with free-standing grills throughout the park are offered on a first come, first serve basis.
Stop at the Visitor Center
Once you’ve finished your picnic lunch, head across Highway 11 to the north portion of the park. The Park Visitor Center houses exhibits about the natural diversity and history of the park, and its importance as a scientific research destination of the region.
If you’re looking to check out the Visitor Center, be advised that office hours are 11 am to noon and 4 – 5 pm. Despite these rather short hours, the Park is open Saturdays through Thursdays from 9 am – 6 pm and Fridays 9 am – 8 pm. After daylight savings time, the park is open Monday- Sunday until 9 pm. Keowee-Toxaway State Park is free to the public.
Hiking & Creek Stomping at Keowee-Toxaway
There are 5.5 miles of trails in the Park, the two main hikes being Raven Rock Trail and Natural Bridge Trail. The trailhead for these two trails is located behind the park office. Natural Bridge Nature Trail is a 1½-mile loop, and at the far end of the loop is the Raven Rock trailhead. Combined with the Natural Bridge loop, you achieve a 4.4-mile hike to Raven Rock and back.
Use the Keowee-Toxaway SP trail map to help you navigate the area easily.
Natural Bridge Trail
Hiking the Natural Bridge loop clockwise starts you off along Poe creek and numerous small waterfalls. Soon you’ll come to the intersection with Raven Rock Trail with its views of Lake Keowee, passing rock outcrops and a boulder field before reaching Raven Rock. Looping back to Natural Bridge Trail you’ll cross Poe Creek on the trail’s namesake, an enormous natural rock ‘bridge’. You’ll then cross through an upland hardwoods forest to reach the parking lot.
Lake Trail
The ½ mile Lake Trail departs from the campground and emerges from the woods near the Villa to Lake Keowee, where guests can enjoy fishing for bass, bream, crappie, and catfish.
Keowee-Toxaway is a perfect hike for a spring day! Keep your eyes peeled for the wildflowers that enjoy the moisture along Poe Creek. You’ll also enjoy the rhododendrons and azaleas blooming in late spring and early summer. On a hot summer’s day prepare to cool down in Poe Creek. The irresistible tumble of water makes it hard to leave. Autumn brings colorful fall foliage, but catching the right day in winter means less-crowded trails and parking lots – this is a park for all four seasons.
Camping at Lake Keowee
Ten paved camping sites have individual water and electrical hookups for RVs up to 40 feet, while the tent camping area has 14 sites with central water, individual tent pads and fire rings. Restroom facilities with hot showers are available, as well as a dump station.
Backcountry camping is allowed at three designated sites on Lake Keowee. These are accessible by a hike on Raven Rock Trail, or by paddling to them in a canoe/kayak. For larger groups a primitive group area is located in the backcountry; registration is required and reservations are accepted.
If camping isn’t for you, reserve the three-bedroom villa that overlooks Lake Keowee near the boat launch. The cabin is completely furnished, heated & air-conditioned with all the amenities. It comes with linens, cooking and eating utensils, washer/dryer, satellite television, Wi-Fi, two fireplaces, and a private boat dock. Just know that pets are not allowed in the cabins.
Enjoy Lake Keowee!
Boating: Keowee-Toxaway provides non-motorized boat access to Lake Keowee; to launch a motorized boat you have to use the access at Fall Creek Landing, five miles southwest of the park.
Fishing: Fishing is allowed. Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish are commonly caught fish.
Swimming: Swimming is allowed, however, there are no lifeguards or designated swimming areas in the park; swim at your own risk.
With easy access to Lake Keowee, three beautiful trails with all kinds of unique natural features, and spectacular views throughout the park, Keowee-Toxaway has plenty to offer. We’ve enjoyed our visits in all four seasons. However, spring has a special magic with the ephemeral wildflowers blooming and trees budding electric green. Head north to this gem of a state park and experience the magic for yourself!
A portion of this post originally appeared on Femme au Foyer.
What’s your family’s favorite thing to do at Lake Keowee?
MEREDITH, N.H. (AP) — The steep bowl at Tuckerman Ravine on New Hampshire’s Mount Washington has long made it a favorite spot for expert skiers and snowboarders who are seeking adventure beyond the comparative safety of the state’s ski areas.
But hard and icy conditions on Saturday turned the bowl deadly.
Madison Saltsburg, 20, died after falling about 600 vertical feet down the ravine in the afternoon, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Two other skiers suffered serious injuries after falling and hitting rocks and ice. And there were a number of other falls witnessed throughout the day that didn’t result in serious injuries, the service said.
A telephone message to a forest service spokesperson seeking information about Saltsburg wasn’t immediately returned Sunday.
The day of accidents prompted search efforts that continued for hours in the dark as teams worked to rescue the injured skiers and remove Saltsburg’s body from the mountain. Heavy, wet snow started to fall Saturday night and winds began to pick up, forcing the rescuers to battle on through the worsening conditions.
“The snow rangers and emergency personnel were up there late last night. They’re exhausted,” said Colleen Mainville, a spokesperson with the U.S. Forest Service.
Tuckerman Ravine is particularly popular in the spring, when the sun begins to soften the snow. On some days, hundreds of skiers and snowboarders make the 3-mile hike to the ravine, resulting in a festive atmosphere. From there, it can take another hour to kick boot steps in the wall to get to the top.
But risks — including open crevasses, avalanches and rocks — have resulted in several deaths over the years.
The Forest Service said Saltsburg and her skiing companion encountered hard and icy snow surfaces due to cold temperatures and a lack of recent snowfall. There were also open crevasse holes on the mountain, the service said, and conditions were unforgiving.
Forest Service rangers and a team from the Mount Washington Avalanche Center also responded to two other skiers who suffered severe injuries that weren’t life threatening, Mainville said.
At 6,288 feet, Mount Washington is the tallest peak in the Northeast and is notorious for its fickle weather. It is the sight of frequent rescues.
Just the previous night, on Friday, a 23-year-old hiker from Kentucky was rescued from the mountain after going off trail and into the Ammonoosuc Ravine, New Hampshire Fish and Game reported.
The hiker “fell and hit his head and face, lost one of his sneakers, and eventually became hypothermic,” the agency said in a statement.
“He was given boots, food, warm drink, proper winter gear, and a headlamp. He was then escorted back to the trail and then to the Cog Railway parking lot,” the agency said.
Another hiker who was rescued from the Ammonoosuc Ravine in February described his 11-hour ordeal to The Associated Press, acknowledging he had made some poor decisions and was underprepared for his hike, and crediting rescuers with saving his life.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Have you seen the Oconee Bell? Spring is the perfect time to spot this rare flower. It doesn’t bloom in very many places, but Devils Fork State Park is one of the few places you can see the Oconee Bell.
The sides of the streambed are blanketed in waxy, red-tinged leaves, small white flowers visible only upon a closer look. Had we not traveled to Devils Fork State Park specifically to see this delicate wildflower, we might have hiked right past the colonies of this rare plant.
About the Oconee Bell
The Oconee Bell is only found in a few locations in the southern Appalachian Mountains, in moist, wooded areas along the streams of Georgia, North, and South Carolina, like Jocassee Gorges. The tiny flowers are one of the first to bloom in the Upstate, and attract quite the crowd to this state park better known for summer swimming and camping.
One of the rangers said “We had a brochure in the holder by the trailhead. Usually, folks finish the trail and put them right back. Last weekend cleaned us right out, there were at least a hundred; I’m going to have to print more.” (This was on our visit last year, right about the middle of the month of March.)
The flower has a very limited range in the wild, and so the appearance of the native wildflower is cause for celebration. Every year Devils Fork SP puts on the Oconee Bell Nature Walk. If you can’t make the ranger-guided walk, you can still see the Oconee Bell blooming; the flower usually blooms from mid-March to early April, and the Oconee Bell Nature Trail takes you along a dozen colonies of this unique wildflower. The park holds Bell Fest every year as well, a festival dedicated to the rare wildflower that also has lots of great local vendors. In 2024, the date is Saturday, March 16th from 10 am – 3 pm. It’s free with park entry.
The Oconee Bell Nature Trail
The trail is an easy 1.5-mile loop that takes hikers through the oak-hickory forest, past a small pond full of American toads, and alongside the creek that is home to the elusive wildflower that gives the trail its name. In addition to the Oconee Bell, dozens of other plants and trees are identified by wooden markers, and several small cascades on the creek add to the list of attractions available year-long.
If you’re headed to Devils Fork to hike the Oconee Bell trail you just follow signs to the Ranger Station. A quick stop there for a map or restrooms, and then it’s just a matter of crossing to the other side of the parking lot to the trailhead. The parking lot is on the southeast corner of Lake Jocassee, and the scenic views of the lake, Double Springs Island, and the swimming and picnic area on the southwest shore are stunning.
Bring a picnic to eat on the lake, or upon finishing your hike circle around to Buckeye Drive where you will find picnic shelters and a playground.
In any case, make sure you practice what the Park Naturalist terms “belly botany” – to get an up-close look at the low-lying flowers you’ll have to get close to the ground. There are several locations where the colonies are right on the trail, so it’s relatively easy for all the kids (and adults) in your group to get a good look at the Bell. Remember, for your safety and the protection of the bells, please stay on the trail!
RINGWOOD, New Jersey (WABC) — A missing hiker at Ringwood State Park in New Jersey was located safely Monday afternoon.
Carol Heimbach, 63, survived an entire day and night lost in the woods along the New York/New Jersey border, going more than 24 hours missing.
Authorities believe Heimbach, from Wayne, New Jersey, entered the park for a hike near Skylands Manor on Sunday around 12:30 p.m.
The New Jersey State Park Police said the woman’s family first reached out to authorities after Heimbach didn’t return home for dinner, which initiated the search.
They say Heimbach’s vehicle was located in Parking Lot B of the state park just before 11 p.m., and a massive multi-agency search and rescue operation, using canines and aviation units, began a few hours later and continued overnight.
Authorities say they started receiving tips regarding the missing hiker around 9 a.m. Monday morning, after the Ringwood Police Department posted information on their Facebook page about the disappearance.
They say a homeowner’s Ring camera footage positively identified Heimbach.
“At 1 p.m. we received probably the most credible tip that we could expect, and it was based off a Ring cam in Scottsburg New York,” said George Fedorczyk of New Jersey State Park Police.
She was located safely around 1:30 p.m. in Sloatsburg, New York, and was then taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern.
Police say she was in good shape and suffered no apparent injuries but was “disoriented.”
She has since been reunited with family.
Her husband told Eyewitness News he’s grateful to police for keeping up the search.
Police say it’s not yet clear the circumstances that led the woman to go missing.
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
State leaders and students in Maryland recently went device-free and connected with nature for the “Global Day of Unplugging.”
In celebration of the “Global Day of Unplugging,” which began March 1, Maryland’s first lady Dawn Moore hiked with state officials and high schoolers, device-free, to encourage improved mental health.
On Friday, Moore was joined by Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz, Maryland Department of Health Secretary Dr. Laura Herrera Scott, mental health and environmental experts and several Howard County high school students, in Halethorpe’s Patapsco Valley State Park.
“Improving the mental health of Maryland’s children is one of my top priorities as first lady,” Moore said in a news release.
“I encourage parents to help their children take time to unplug from the digital world and explore the world around them, including Maryland’s natural beauty. I am proud to be working in partnership with our state agencies, community organizations, and our young students to help improve the mental health of all Maryland children.”
At the park, the group participated in a forest bathing hike followed by a group yoga session.
“Improving mental health is also about having fun in nature,” Kurtz said, who added that he encourages all Marylanders to find time to enjoy all the types of different recreational activities made possible by the state parks and public lands.
“We have to use every technique we can to improve children’s mental health,” Dr. Laura Herrera Scott said.
“Immersing yourself in nature is one way children and their parents can connect with each other and the world around them. The mental health improvements from these types of activities can have long-lasting positive effects such as improved sleep, decreased levels of stress, increased opportunities for peer engagement, and development of leadership skills.”
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources provides in-classroom opportunities for connecting with nature, professional development for teachers to teach about the state’s environment, as well as outdoor learning experiences in its parks, according to the news release.
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