5 Fall Hikes in South Carolina

One of our favorite things about living in South Carolina is the beautiful natural landscape! A great outdoor adventure awaits just about anywhere you turn, and with autumn on its way in (finally!) the milder temperatures and beautiful fall colors leave us making weekend plans — for the whole family to take a hike! Today we’ll walk you through our five favorite spots to visit for a walk on the trails in fall in South Carolina. Whether you live right up in the mountains or down by the beach, you’re guaranteed at least one spot on our list that’s close to home… and at least one that will take you out of your comfort zone.

1. Blue Ridge Railroad Historical Trail

A moderately difficult hike of about two-and-a-half miles, this Oconee County trail follows the old Blue Ridge Railroad railbed. The railway itself was never completed — the Civil War interrupted its construction and it was simply never finished afterward. Construction was started on three different tunnels, however, leading to a hike that contains something a little bit different, although you will have to work a bit for the interesting view. We recommend packing a flashlight with fresh batteries (or bringing extra batteries along), as the tunnels can be very dark even in midday. This trail can be found at Stumphouse Tunnel Park.

2. Lake Placid at Paris Mountain State Park

This is a great hike for bringing the kids! An easy, mostly-level nature walk will take you through Paris Mountain State Park, along the shores of Lake Placid. Visitors have reported seeing turtles, and other wildlife. You’ll cross a small bridge and receive a beautiful view of the lakewaters. The loop will take you past a swimming area and return you back to the picnic shelter where you started. A great idea for a picnic lunch and a nice walk! Hoping for something more difficult? No problem! Paris Mountain’s Brissy Ridge is probably just the strenuous hike you’ve been searching for.

3. Dreher Island State Park Trails

Located within Newberry County, Dreher Island State Park has a series of 3 short trails that work for just about everybody. For those searching for an easier hike in the Midlands, the Billy Dreher Nature Trail is a short loop around a peninsula, and is a great walk for those bringing younger kids. If you’re interested in something a little bit harder, the Bicycle Bypass Trail is a short multiuse trail. For the most serious hikers, the Little Gap Trail takes you through a thick forest of pines and hardwood trees. Truly a good choice for just about everyone this fall.

4. Santee State Park

Santee State Park is better-known for the abundant population of catfish in nearby Lake Marion, and it’s a popular destination for those looking to see if they can bring home the day’s catch for dinner. Nonetheless, they have trails through the park that are nice easy walks, making this a great Lowcountry family outing. The Limestone Nature Trail, Sinkhole Pond, and Oak Pinolly Trail all offer you plenty to see, without the difficult hike.

5. Francis Marion National Forest

We’ve recommended Francis Marion National Forest before for those looking to get out with an ATV in the Lowcountry, but its trails are perfect for hiking, too! The Sewee Visitors Center Trail starts you right at the back of the building and takes you in an easy loop. You’ll even pass the Red Wolf Viewing area, sure to be a favorite for the kids. You’ll also circle a pond inhabited by alligators, so keep an eye out! Another easy trail is the Sewee Shell Mound, which includes two Native American heritage sites available for viewing. For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, try the I’on Swamp, once part of a rice-growing estate and currently a moderately difficult trail that will take you through some beautiful wetlands.

Go With Garrett’s: Here to Help

If your tastes run a bit more towards getting out for a great game of golf or maybe heading out for a hunt or a mud-run than they do a family hike, we’ve got you covered! At Go With Garrett’s Golf Cars and Specialty Vehicles, we’ve made it our mission since 1992 to sell quality new and preowned golf cars from E-Z-Go, Bad Boy, and Cushman to our friends and clients here in South Carolina! Parts, service & repair, customization, and financing options also available. Let us know what you’re looking for — if you can’t find it, we may be able to customize a cart to suit your needs!

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