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As a traditional state park, Table Rock has been an upstate destination for families for many years.
Rand McNally, America's largest and most trusted map maker, has brought national attention to northwestern South Carolina's Table Rock State Park as a "must-see" destination. The Pickens County state park is recognized in Rand McNally's 2010 Road Atlas, which provides five road trips in spectacular regions throughout states such as New York, Oregon and South Carolina. Each trip not only notes Editor's Picks, but also features photos, an inset map and other similar destinations that readers might enjoy.
As a traditional state park, Table Rock has been an upstate destination for families for many years. The park, opened in the 1930s, was home to one of South Carolina's first formal nature education programs and now serves as a trailhead for the 80-mile long Foothills Trail through the wilderness along the Blue Ridge Escarpment. The 13.2 miles of hiking trails through the forested park also include one that leads to the top of Table Rock Mountain itself.
The 3.4-mile Table Rock Trail is a highly strenuous, switchbacking hike that ascends 2,000 feet to the summit of the imposing granite dome, Table Rock Mountain (3,157 feet). The red-blazed hike begins at the Carrick Creek Interpretive Center and climbs steeply through an open forest strewn with boulders. Along the way, you will see vegetation typical of the Southern Appalachians: dominant oak and hickory trees with scattered pines and hemlock. Fortunately, the strenuous hike offers the reward of spectacular views from the summit.
Other park activities include camping, seasonal swimming, fishing, boating on 67-acre Lake Oolenoy, kayaking at Lake Pinnacle, birding and picnicking. Cozy, rustic cabins are also available and are completely furnished, heated, air-conditioned, and supplied with bath and bed linens, basic cooking and eating utensils, automatic coffee maker, a microwave, and include a screened porch and fireplace.
Information courtesy of www.scprt.com, www.sctrails.net and www.southcarolinaparks.com
