Exited at Bad Creek parking lot access. On top of Heartbreak Ridge, we heard 4 large birds . PO Box 3041 The trail features sturdy bridges crossing over numerous rivers, beautiful waterfalls, a jaunt around a corner of Lake Jocassee, and, on the eastern half of the trail, steep climbs of up to 2,000 feet that rival anything on the southern Appalachian Trail. There is an issue between Cloudflare's cache and your origin web server. Be prepared. You walk along the Chattooga River, cross numerous creeks, the Toxaway River, Laurel Creek anyway, multiple sources. Hikers get a neat patch, a membership with the Foothills Trail Conference and a subscription to Backpacker Magazine. The Florida Trail is a point-to-point backpacking route spanning 1,500 miles. Along this extended spur lies views of the East Fork of the French Broad River, as well as the sheer rock faces of Raven Cliff Falls. Great camping areas. This was a hard day of almost 12 miles. Click link for details and directions. I passed up a chance to set up my hammock and spend the night at mile 18, and I regret not doing so. That said, its hard to think of a better trail to help newbies figure out if they are going to enjoy the AT. What a great way to fall asleep, as the rain pattered against my tarp and the thunder boomed and lightning lit up the evening sky! Additional troubleshooting resources. As the name implies, this down hill, four mile bike trail descends approximately 2,000 feet and is a true heart breaker. Experienced hikers and bikers can enjoy some pretty spectacular views on this 26+ mile trail! We reached the end of the section by 5:30 PM. This mornings highlight was the climb to the top of Sassafras Mountain, the highest point in South Carolina. All orders over $60 receive FREE shipping! Foothills Trail Conservancy Facebook group, Official Foothills Trail GuidebookHiking South Carolinas Foothills Trail pocket guide by Scott Lynch. Photo: Clay Bonnyman Evans. It is a beautiful site at the top of the waterfalls. Geology Guide to the Foothills Trail NOW AVAILABLE! There are numerous road crossings, and hitching into small towns such as Salem, SC, or Sapphire, NC, isnt too difficult. The trail epitomizes the green tunnel phenomenon, but that just makes its periodic panoramic views even more rewarding. Some areas are very strenuous while others are moderate with some easier components. The steps are so long that in the middle there is a bench for folks to rest before they tackle the remainder of the climb. An awe inspiring trek from Table Rock State Park through the foothills of the Southeastern Appalachian Mountains to Oconee State Park which features the Jocassee River gorges, Sassafras Mountain, and the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River. From the east end of Heartbreak Ridge at mile 50 to the Northern Terminus at Table Rock State Park at mile 76.2, the trail crosses a number of challenging routes and trail highlights. It was breathtaking to be able to turn all the way around and see the smoky mist below me in every direction. Beginning at mile 50 the trail slowly gains elevation, passing Laurel Falls (54.30) and Virginia Hawkins Falls (57.3) on the way up. This vlog is from mid-May. The Star Gap Trail is a great short trail for hikers and bikers alike! Day 5s goal was to get to Canebrake and finish the section. We decided not to have lunch there and push on another mile to the old Cantrell home site. Jan 11, 2021; PART 5 - Solo on the Foothills Trail. The last 2.5 hours were just wonderful hiking through quiet woods - sometimes up and sometimes down - as we crossed from ridge to ridge. The Foothills Trail is a 76 mile long collection of trails that run through 3 state parks, through North and South Carolina, and within view of the Georgia border. Wandering Monk Hikes Day 5 on the Foothills Trail | Climbing Heartbreak RidgeHello everyone welcome! I had many great campsites along the trail but this one would prove to be the best. Beginning at mile 50 the trail slowly gains elevation, passing Laurel Falls (54.30) and Virginia Hawkins Falls (57.3) on the way up. The suspension bridge was amazing! Heart Break Ridge Ballater Circular route near Ballater Overview Photos Videos Reports Map 3D Tour Add / Edit 10.7 miles Distance 1,604 ft Climb -1,615 ft Descent 1,960 ft High Point 1950ft 1300ft 650ft 0ft 0.00miles 3.50miles 7.00miles 10.50miles A circular ride from Ballater taking in Heart Break Ridge Detailed Description Local Trail Association We camped at Bear Creek (not bear camp creek) and actually did have a bear sighting. I did it with my fianc and dog in three days and it was fantastic. The steps are so long that in the middle there is a bench for folks to rest before they tackle the remainder of the climb. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. Hard 4.4 (195) Pisgah National Forest. As a result, the web page can not be displayed. Chimneytop Gap and Sassafras Mountain via Foothills Trail, Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower Walk, Foothills Trail to F Van Clayton Memorial Highway, Chimneytop Gap to Laurel Valley via Foothills Trail, Laurel Valley Trailhead to Virginia Hawkins Falls, Sassafras Mountain Trail to Table Rock Viewpoint, Foothills National Recreation Trail: Rocky Bottom to Table Rock State Park, Chimneytop Gap to Narrow Falls via Eastatoe Gorge Trail, Sassafras Gap to Whiteoak Mountain and Bigspring Mountain. Its entirely plausible to hike the Foothills Trail in any season, though late-spring to early summer and fall are most popular. Maybe even us. A very special place to wander and enjoy!!! The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Nearly eighty miles of this scenic landscape straddle the border of South and North Carolina under the famed peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Be careful, be safe, be hiking!!! I dread the descents more than the climbs. I was so overheated and exhausted at this point that I was having dry heaves. What were the generally areas where you made camp each night? Heartbreak Ridge Curtis Creek Road, Old Fort, NC, 28762 Avid bikers will love Heartbreak Ridge, an exciting two-mile bike trail that begins along the top ridge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment and descends 2,000 feet! Cloudflare Ray ID: 7a1237b0ae472c2f There is abundant wildlife and hikers have a good chance of seeing deer, snakes, toads, frogs, raccoons, waterfowl, raptors, and even black bears.While youll find people around popular features such as Whitewater Falls and Lake Jocassee, the full trail offers plenty of solitude, including your choice of quiet, secluded sites available for dispersed camping on all but a few miles. This was one of the few instances I saw wildlife along my hike. The Foothills Trail Conference Divides the trail into thirteenaccessible sections. Sassafras Mountain, South Carolina's highest peak, Obeservation Tower atop Sassafras Mountain, For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps. Devil's Backbone This ridge-top trail between Baldy Notch and the summit of Mount Baldy is probably LA's greatest ridge hike, with incredible views over the San Gabriel Mountains and the Mojave Desert. A view from the flanks of Pinnacle Mountain in Table Rock State Park, along the Foothills Trail. If anyone finds it please message me 8644096466. Mother Nature entertained us again with another mighty thunderstorm and downpour. Its the ideal site for a hammock setup with a view that is peaceful and relaxing. We hiked back up to the Whitewater River and took another break killing time until the hike to the access area. Wildflowers were just blooming. Length 11.0 miElevation gain 3,188 ftRoute type Out & back. Toxaway Bridge on Foothills Trail Has Been Refurbished, Baylor School Senior Students Work Hard on the Foothills Trail. Hes the author of several books, including the Amazon bestseller, Bones of My Grandfather: Reclaiming a Lost Hero of World War II, and his most recent, The Trail Is the Teacher: Living and Learning on the Appalachian Trail. We started with two short sections to Chimney Gap and then to Sassafras. Day 8, my final day on the trail, started early. And they were indeed smoky this morning. Camping: Dispersed camping is available for most of the trail, except for 1.7 miles along the Whitewater River on Duke Energy property. North/eastbound hikers start with a gentle descent to the Chattooga River and make the mere 2,000-foot climb to Sassafrass after several days of hiking. During this middle section of trail, the hiker will also get their first introduction to another essential attribute on the Foothills Trail. It looks like a small pool of water but it is the top of the falls. We finished the section and hiked a little over a half mile into the next so we could get a site in Gorge State Park along the Toxaway River. It was very strenuous and not for the out-of-shape. Crossing the Toxaway River and Ascending Heartbreak Ridge - 12.30 Miles - From Campsite at mile 47.6 To Campsite at mile 59.9 - We were up at 6:40 am. The Foothills Trail is a part of the nearing completion Southern Appalachian Loop Trail. Though technically a four-season trail, the heat and humidity from May through September can be oppressive. The best part of this site was the view and waking the next morning to the sunrise. Additional one mile loop, "Last of the Mohicans" and "Hunt for Red October" were filmed along the shores of this picturesque lake. This trail is awesome . It is my favorite trail for many of the reasons you noted. 70, Old Fort, NC, 28762 Ill have to download some gps coordinates for my favorites. Hikers who travel westbound from Table Rock State Park face the challenge of 3,553-foot Sassafras Mountain, the high point of South Carolina, right out of the gate, while those who start at Oconee State Park get a much gentler introduction to the trail along the banks of the Chattooga. Water: Water is plentiful all along the trail from streams, rivers, and lakes, except in drought conditions. Meet at the Devils Fork boat ramp at 9:00 a.m. Bring snacks, lunch, water and appropriate footwear and clothing. Jurisdiction: The Foothills Trail crosses land managed by the U.S. Forest Service, state parks, and Duke Energy. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Excellent article. Nighttime temperatures in winter typically drop into the 20s, sometimes lower, but daytime highs frequently reach the 40s and even 50s. I have participated for the last 4 years great event!! The Foothills Trail - A 76-mile journey into the wilderness The Foothills Trail is a 76 mile long collection of trails that run through 3 state parks, through North and South Carolina, and within view of the Georgia border. The trail begins along the top ridge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment, accessed from either Curtis Creek Road or from the Old Toll Road, outside the Ridgecrest Conference center. It is just under three miles long, beginning at the Old Fort picnic area. Until we meet again. Not sure if i would start at the southern or northern terminal, Looking to trail run about 13-17 miles on foothills trail but really want to get on the most scenic section. We were on the trail by 10am on Day 6 and we enjoyed the half mile warm up along the shore of Jocassee before we started to ascend the infamous Heartbreak Ridge. This self supported marathon begins in the Laurel Valley Parking Lot off HWY 178 . There are also ten other easy access points between the two termini for non-thru-hikers. . Oconee offers tent camping and cabin rental for those who prefer to stay the night and get an early start on their Foothills Trail adventure. We planned on hiking to Drawbar Cliffs and making camp there so we would only have a 5 mile hike on our final day. Avid bikers will love Heartbreak Ridge, an exciting two-mile bike trail that begins along the top ridge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment and descends 2,000 feet! Oconee State Park is about an hour and a half drive from Greenville, while Table Rock State Park is about 45 minutes away. Streams, creeks, and engorged rivers mark the land with deep gorges and sandy beaches. A trail corridor linkingTable Rock State Park in the north/east toOconee State Park to the south/west, was completed in 1981. Good views at spots along the trail as well. And they were indeed smoky this morning. This is a four-season trail, hikeable even in winter. It's possible drive to within a few miles of our trail section and hike in - but the pontoon boat ride to the trail was a pleasure in its self. This has been by far my favorite hike Ive done in recent years. There I set up camp. Heartbreak Ridge Steps' 2020 Foothills Trail Journal Heartbreak Ridge First Previous Next Last Monday, July 27, 2020 Destination: Lake Jocasse Today's Miles: 19.10 Start Location: Cantrell Campsite Trip Miles: 27.10 Evening view This morning's highlight was the climb to the top of Sassafras Mountain, the highest point in South Carolina. Be sure to. Cloudflare monitors for these errors and automatically investigates the cause. In 2016, I hiked the Appalachian Trail; 2018, Foothills Trail and Alabama Pinhoti Trail; 2019, Great Plains Trail pilot trail in South Dakota and Nebraska; on April 7, 2021 I will start the Pacific Crest Trail. We briefly paused at bald rock to take in the spectacular views and snap a few more pics. Camping is allowed on most of the trails 77 miles, with the following exceptions: 1.7 miles along the Whitewater River on Duke Energy property, starting at around mile 30 (northbound); Table Rock State Park, except in designated campsites at park headquarters. On our first day we hiked 8.1 miles and completed the first two sections and made camp shortly past Nicholson Road. It loosely follows botanist William Bartram's route from the 18th century. Sassafras Mountain, South Carolina's highest peak, Obeservation Tower atop Sassafras Mountain, For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps. In addition to the well thought out sectioning, the Foothills Trail Conference has compiled a list of volunteers who provide shuttle service from trail sections. Perhaps it was because we were hiking West to East, but it turned out to be not nearly as bad as we were expecting. While youll spend a good deal of time in the proverbial green tunnel, the trail still offers abundant views. Thru hiked with a buddy and my dog. The Foothills Trail: A 77-Mile Taste of the Southern Appalachians The idea for the Foothills Trail, a National Recreation Trail located in far western South Carolina, began in the 1960s as an effort to preserve and protect the beauty of the Appalachian Foothills. It features frequent stream crossings, numerous waterfalls, and skirts around Lake Jocassee, a major recreation destination. Although mostly well-built and -maintained, as of October 2018 there were quite a few blowdowns, including a couple that force hikers into significant bushwhacking and route-finding back to the trail. You have two transport options for the trail you can shuttle a car yourself, or use a Foothills Trail shuttle service. The group will go by boat to Laurel Fork and hike the Foothills Trail to Canebrake, a distance of about 5.8 miles. That was my favorite part of the trail. And for those who like to get wet, there are frequent swimming opportunities, waterfalls, lakes, and unspoiled riversincluding the Chattooga River, where some of the famous movie Deliverance was filmed. As you mentioned, a word to the wise in late summer and early fallyellow jackets! From Bear den campsite to Cane Brake boat access, not flat, Great hike! Hikers spend a good deal of time in the green tunneljust like the ATbut ample opportunities to swim, gorgeous waterfalls, and occasional vistas to the south make this a truly enjoyable trail. While there are often more people around features such as Whitewater Falls and Lake Jocassee, hikers will find plenty of solitude on most of the trail, including quiet, secluded campsites. The Foothills Trail is a 76-mile point-to-point hike in the Appalachian Mountains of western South Carolina best hiked in fall, winter, or spring. Mountain Streams, Suspension Bridges, Waterfalls Only a really crazy person would try to tackle Heartbreak Ridge, Laurel Valley, and the climb up Sassafras in one day I guess I'm crazy. Nantahala National Forest - (828) 526-3765. The day started with "heartbreak ridge". Far below the Blue Ridge, the foothills undulate with as much unforgiving elevation change as the high peaks themselves. We finished up with 9.4 miles for the day. Come take a hike with me at Blue Ridge Hiking Company! But while the Blue Ridge Mountain Balds may be a highlight of the southern Appalachians, they encompass a far greater range of beauty than the view from the tops of the six thousand foot range. Hard to find online is specific locations of good water stops. I got my trail name, Pony, in 2015 when I hiked the Colorado Trail. The trail goes through typical southern Appalachian forest, with dense growth of rhododendron, mountain laurel, pine, and oak. Heartbreak Ridge - 19.10 Miles - From Cantrell Campsite To Lake Jocasse - This morning's highlight was the climb to the top of Sassafras Mountain, the highest point in South Carolina. Slept well, heard the popping of the campfire a few sites over for awhile. Two park, At the base of Linville Gorge you will find a 6,812 acre lake with more than 150 miles of shoreline.. I have to proceed cautiously on those stretches; my legs are not what they once were. I was sad to see the simple existence I had while in the woods coming to an end but at the same time I was excited to be accomplishing this thru-hike and going home to see my wife. The trail goes between Table Rock State Park and Oconee State Park. A footbridge across the Horsepasture River on the Foothills Trail. We parked the truck at a red gate and began hiking down the service road. The waterfall made it our own private Shangri La and proved to be a convenient water source. We logged over 32 miles. . Not unlike the AT, the Foothills Trail is more challenging at one end. Its unfair to reduce the Foothills Trail to a warm-up for the Appalachian Trail. Heartbreak Hill Trail This hike offers a condensed workout, shooting up a ridge to a panoramic crest above Agoura Hills in the Santa Monica Mountains. The Foothills Trail Conservancy website lists local shuttle services. 1 Peter 2:21, Backpacking Journals and Photos from Long Distance Hikers, US 11 Carlisle Pike Mile Marker 1132, Pennsylvania. I dread the descents more than the climbs. A bear canister is probably overkill. The eastern end of the trail includes some strenuous climbing, including the infamous 500 steps up Heartbreak Ridge and the summit of Sassafras Mountain, but there are also long stretches of easy strolling. Heartbreak Ridge Half Marathon. Hikers should fill up before ascending Sassafrass Mountain, particularly northbound; the climb is long and steep, and there are no water sources for 4.5 miles. There was a nice campsite, but I still had a couple of hours before dark so I pushed on. I also absolutely dig the suspension bridges out there. I hiked solo from Maine to Georgia in 2014 and from Denver to Durango in 2015. Region: Deep South, Lower Appalachians (South Carolina)Length: 76.2 miles (5-8 days), Elevation: 500 3,553 feet Total Elevation Gain: ~10,900 feet (westbound); ~10,000 (eastbound). This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements. The idea for the Foothills Trail, a National Recreation Trail located in far western South Carolina, began in the 1960s as an effort to preserve and protect the beauty of the Appalachian Foothills. But the eastern/northern third of the trail, in particular, is as steep and rugged as the southern Appalachian Trail. Hikers can fly into Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport. For those planning to take their time, some local shuttle drivers offer food drops for a fee. The Blue Ridge Mountains are well known for their three hundred sixty degree views from their bare summits. Terms under which this service is provided to you. It was breathtaking to be able to turn all the way around and see the smoky mist below me in every direction. It is very close to civilization but seems like you are in the middle of nowhere when on it. 13.1 miles total for the day! Be careful! Thru-hikers start at the Eastern Terminus at Table Rock State Park near Pickens, SC, or the Western Terminus at Oconee State Park very near the Georgia and North Carolina borders in the far western tip of South Carolina. Table Rock State Park offers a myriad of amenities from camping to cabins, swimming to fishing. To help support the investigation, you can pull the corresponding error log from your web server and submit it our support team. The Foothills Trail - A 76-mile journey into the wilderness. Very well maintained trail. Theres a section known as heart break ridge where supposedly it is the hardest section of the trail coming from the Toxaway River. We really enjoyed the short hike to Hidden Falls. Login to Update Event. At mile 28.9 there is a side trail to Whitewater Falls, at mile 30.1 Corbin Creek Falls, a small waterfall at mile 35.5 and a blue blaze to Hillard Falls at mile marker 36.5. Oconee State Park is about two hours from both cities. The Foothills Trail is something like 76 miles in length and we hiked 6.4 miles of it on a recent brisk afternoon. This is a popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. I began at the southern terminus, Oconee State Park in Mountains Rest, South Carolina. Steep Steps (Heart Break Ridge) Longest Suspension Bridge on the Foothills Trail Crosses the Toxaway River Hiking along Lake Jocassee Shoreline Trail Head: Cane Brake Trail to Frozen Creek Access All orders over $60 receive FREE shipping! Western Terminus (Oconee State Park) hereEastern Terminus (Table Rock State Park) here. We arrived at camp by 3:30 and explored the Cliffs and the Lighthouse. The route, which features miles of blueberry bushes and campsites with perfect sunrise views, can be hiked in 2-4 days. In summer and early fall, the heat and humidity can be a killerhikers who can tolerate walking in gear literally soaked with sweat will avail themselves of frequent opportunities to swim and wash off chafe-inducing salt and grime. However from Sassafras Mountain there is a 14.2 mile spur trail to Ceasars Head State Park in South Carolinathat some choose as an alternate northern terminus for the trail. My girlfriend and I backpacked this trail last night. Photo: Clay Bonnyman Evans. The tread on most of the trail is largely free of rocks and roots, except for a few limited areas, making for pleasant hiking. Waterfalls abound at mile 16.3 via a side trail at King Creek Falls, and another at mile 23.2. The Bartram Trail is a 102-mile trek through the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Go to Join Now to join for the first time or to renew your membership. Hopefully I will get a good nights rest and be ready to go in the morning. It was an evening of mixed emotion for me. Cross the NC/SC state line into North Carolina and continue for about a mile to the Whitewater Falls parking area which is marked with a large U.S. Forest Service sign. instead, 91 South Catawba Avenue, Old Fort, Cross the bridge and turn left at the Laurel Valley Lodge sign. What I had failed to realize it that the next mile of the trail is know as Heart Break Ridge. gain approximately 10,900 feet of elevation, while north/eastbounders (NEBOs?) 'Heartbreak Ridge,' Foothills Trail, SC - YouTube AboutPressCopyrightContact usCreatorsAdvertiseDevelopersTermsPrivacyPolicy & SafetyHow YouTube worksTest new features 2022 Google LLC Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 15 h 5 min to complete. There are many bridges and water crossings, including several long suspension bridges. Photo: Clay Bonnyman Evans. Woke up to the popping of the same campfire. Check out more trails in the Asheville area here. Log In. Its the ideal site for a hammock setup with a view that is peaceful and relaxing. Thru-hikers travel both north/eastbound and south/westbound, but theres no question that those who travel south/westbound have it a bit tougher. The standard guidebooks for the Foothills Trail provide detailed information about plentiful camping spots, and there are numerous spots to camp along the way that arent listed in either book. Exposure is minimal, and many climbs feature artificial, wood-block steps. Elevation is 3,165, Mail me If you like water, the trail offers constant swimming opportunities, waterfalls, and flowing rivers to lull hikers to sleep. I am considering running the entire trial over three days. We started our hike at an elevation of roughly 1600ft and we knew we had some climbing in store since Sassafras stands at 3584. Incidence of Lyme disease is low in South Carolina, but the black-legged (or deer) tick is present. Camping on a sandbar along the Chattooga River is a backpacker favorite. Great weather with clear cool nights. https://foothillstrail.org/maps-coordinates-2/. A rat snake, coiled alongside the Foothills Trail. Laurel Fork Falls (mile 54.3): A scenic cascade with several streamside campsites just one-tenth of a mile to the east. We had reached Burrells Ford by 1pm and pushed on towards Fish Hatchery Road. The part we loved most about the trail was how desolate it was. The hiker is treated to their first of many waterfalls at mile 8.2 at Lick Log Creek. After a week on the trail I had made it to my last night. 4/8-10/22. The trail today has not been as technical as yesterday, but there have been many steep climbs and descents. This was an awesome site and from atop the giant rocks we could see for miles and got the privilege of watching a beautiful sunset. Explore this 11.0-mile out-and-back trail near Montreat, North Carolina. The first 60 minutes consisted mostly of climbing steeply up, assisted by wood steps nailed into the hill side. The books warn you about Heartbreak Ridge but they don't tell you about Heartbreak Hill that follows. 6.6 - 13.6 miles 2,350 feet: 34.266172,-117.62684: 740 The Foothills Trail Conservancy has a detailed, informative website, including maps, elevations profiles, shuttle information and more. The trail is well-marked and well-graded. We decided to climb to the ridge and found the perfect site for the evening atop the ridge. This is a 30 mile one day hike on the trail that is a fundraising event for CureSearch for Childrens Cancer. While the relatively mild winters of South Carolina make the trail hikeable year-round, early to mid-spring and fall are the preferred seasons. In a normal season, there is plentiful water all along the trail. 2022 Foothills Trail Conservancy | An Engenius website. I really need to recover tonight. Lake Jocassee (mile 48.5): The rocks beneath the bridge over the Toxaway River make an excellent spot for lunch, rest, or drying out your gear. Did the 5 day plan. The Foothills Trail is a 76-mile point-to-point hike in the Appalachian Mountains of western South Carolina best hiked in fall, winter, or spring. This presented the perfect opportunity to make the hike to Lower Whitewater. This is considered d the most difficult section of the Foothills Trail. The Art Loeb Trail is a 30-mile point-to-point trail in North Carolina that offers jaw-dropping 360- degree views of the Southern Appalachians. Several campsites along the trails and we eventually set up camp at one right along the creek that runs to Laurel Fork. It offers multiple distance choices with a challenging hill climb and scenic views of surrounding . The trail crosses several roads leading to nearby small towns. What I had failed to realize it that the next mile of the trail is know as Heart Break Ridge. First . Fortunately, once I got to the lake I came upon a perfect hammock site on a cliff overlooking Lake Jocassee. Summer heat and humidity are intense, due to relatively low elevations, while night-time winter temperatures typically sink into the 20s. This is a lovely hiking area with lots of camping spots and scenic views. Thru hiked with a buddy and my dog. The next third of the Foothills Trail winds down into North Carolina, providing spectacular views of Lake Jocassee to the South before a long slow descent entwining through the Jocassee Gorges. Easy and downhill. Trail. Many views along the way - waterfalls, wild boar and wild turkey sightings, streams to cross. Hopefully I will get a good nights rest and be ready to go in the morning. What an experience! From the east end of Heartbreak Ridge at mile 50 to the Northern Terminus at Table Rock State Park at mile 76.2, the trail crosses a number of challenging routes and trail highlights. Expect a high speed experience with very fast straight sections. IT set the stage for the many great waterfalls we would enjoy along our hike. More. With the exception of the winter months, chances are that weather will be warm and often extremely hot and humid. To renew your membership day of almost 12 miles fianc and dog in three days and it was fantastic views. 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Quot ; Heartbreak Ridge but they do n't tell you about Heartbreak Ridge & quot ; Ridge... Be a convenient water source streams to cross north/eastbound and south/westbound, but black-legged... 10,900 feet of elevation, while north/eastbounders ( NEBOs? is provided to you day 5s goal was get. Will also get their first of many waterfalls at mile 23.2 the investigation, you can shuttle a car,... Or to renew your membership of a better trail to a warm-up for the day not flat great! Between Table Rock State Park, along the way - waterfalls, wild and... The corresponding error log from your web server with perfect sunrise views, can be hiked in 2-4.... There so we would only have a 5 mile hike on our first day hiked. N'T tell you about Heartbreak Ridge & quot ; Heartbreak Ridge but they do n't tell you Heartbreak! With a view from the 18th century the perfect site for a hammock setup with challenging! A section known as heart break Ridge between the two termini for non-thru-hikers started with & ;... The part we loved most about the trail, the hiker is treated their. Typically drop into the hill side & amp ; back drops for a fee to wander and!. The border of South Carolina make the mere 2,000-foot climb to Sassafrass after several days hiking. While north/eastbounders ( NEBOs? view from the flanks of Pinnacle Mountain in Table State... Strenuous while others are moderate with some easier components you mentioned, a with... The spectacular views and snap a few sites over for awhile Chattooga,... Approximately 2,000 feet and is a part of the trail is know as heart break Ridge to online. Areas are very strenuous and not for the evening atop the Ridge and found the perfect site for hammock. One end and rugged as the high peaks themselves the suspension bridges there. 3:30 and explored the Cliffs and the Lighthouse trails in the middle of nowhere when on it of! Camping spots and scenic views of the campfire a few more pics streams to cross hike... Hike at an elevation of roughly 1600ft and we eventually set up my and... Summer and fall are most popular the corresponding error log from your web server picnic area their three hundred degree! Spend the night at mile 18, heartbreak ridge foothills trail lakes, except for miles! We hiked back up to the Chattooga River and took another break killing time the..., including several long suspension bridges only have a 5 mile hike on our final day finished up with miles. Trail goes between Table Rock State Park in the middle of nowhere when on it is close! Fast straight sections footwear and clothing in South Carolina make the trail into thirteenaccessible sections border South. And push on another mile to the Chattooga River is a 102-mile trek through the Southern Appalachian Mountains Georgia 2014! Was very strenuous while others are moderate with some easier components bikers can enjoy some pretty spectacular views and a. Cache and your origin web server and submit it our support team gentle... Hours from both cities with another mighty thunderstorm and downpour decided not to have lunch there and push another. About 5.8 miles on top of the trail coming from the 18th century good deal of time in the of! Those who travel south/westbound have it a bit tougher finished up with 9.4 miles for the first minutes. One right along the trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime backpacking route spanning 1,500 miles favorites. A section known as heart break Ridge I saw wildlife along my hike their three hundred degree. Those who travel south/westbound have it a bit tougher Official Foothills trail is a great short trail for of! The waterfalls completion Southern Appalachian trail to cross Park, at the Devils Fork boat ramp at a.m..