Anita’s guidebook

Anita
Anita’s guidebook

Sightseeing

Located in Jocassee Gorge which borders cabins property. Jumping Off Rock has long been touted as the hallmark view of the Jocassee Gorges. The rocky cliff, where peregrine falcons have been nesting the last two years, offers a breathtaking panorama of Lake Jocassee and the surrounding mountains. So why is this exceptionally scenic photo spot the most overlooked overlook in South Carolina? I found out this weekend when I headed up to the 33,000-acre Jim Timmerman Natural Resources Area at Jocassee Gorges in northern Pickens County. While the rugged terrain is as beautiful as any you will see in the Blue Ridge Escarpment, it's not for sissy sedans. Even in a sturdy SUV, the ride was rough-and oh, so exhilarating! We soon learned a visit to Jumping Off Rock is as much about getting there as what you find when you do get there. The fun begins on Horse Pasture Road, a primitive gravel drive that ascends steeply to the 2,000-foot high rock overlook. Although the SC Department of Natural Resources has done much to improve the trek up the mountain, it's still slow-going on this twisty, bumpy road. The better to enjoy the scenery. Along the way are several small waterfalls and six other overlooks, all with spectacular views. We stopped eight miles up the road at the North Carolina Overlook to have lunch on a stone bench erected by the SC Bear Hunters' Association. Another couple miles and we had reached Jumping Off Rock. What makes the view from this precipice so extraordinary is the lack of development anywhere in sight. It's just mountains, trees and the gorgeous crystal clear waters of Lake Jocassee. Horse Pasture Road is open year-round to cars. You can hike, bike or horseback ride up to the overlook, but then you'd miss all the dizzying turns and bouncy fun of this wild ride.
15 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Jumping Off Rock Overlook
448 Horse Pasture Rd
15 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Located in Jocassee Gorge which borders cabins property. Jumping Off Rock has long been touted as the hallmark view of the Jocassee Gorges. The rocky cliff, where peregrine falcons have been nesting the last two years, offers a breathtaking panorama of Lake Jocassee and the surrounding mountains. So why is this exceptionally scenic photo spot the most overlooked overlook in South Carolina? I found out this weekend when I headed up to the 33,000-acre Jim Timmerman Natural Resources Area at Jocassee Gorges in northern Pickens County. While the rugged terrain is as beautiful as any you will see in the Blue Ridge Escarpment, it's not for sissy sedans. Even in a sturdy SUV, the ride was rough-and oh, so exhilarating! We soon learned a visit to Jumping Off Rock is as much about getting there as what you find when you do get there. The fun begins on Horse Pasture Road, a primitive gravel drive that ascends steeply to the 2,000-foot high rock overlook. Although the SC Department of Natural Resources has done much to improve the trek up the mountain, it's still slow-going on this twisty, bumpy road. The better to enjoy the scenery. Along the way are several small waterfalls and six other overlooks, all with spectacular views. We stopped eight miles up the road at the North Carolina Overlook to have lunch on a stone bench erected by the SC Bear Hunters' Association. Another couple miles and we had reached Jumping Off Rock. What makes the view from this precipice so extraordinary is the lack of development anywhere in sight. It's just mountains, trees and the gorgeous crystal clear waters of Lake Jocassee. Horse Pasture Road is open year-round to cars. You can hike, bike or horseback ride up to the overlook, but then you'd miss all the dizzying turns and bouncy fun of this wild ride.
Just a short distance from Cabin.
37 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Twin Falls Trail
Waterfalls Road
37 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Just a short distance from Cabin.
This is a little further from the cabin but worth the drive. Raven Cliff Falls Trail is a 4 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Cleveland, South Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Length of Trail: 4.0 miles Raven Cliff Falls is the king of South Carolina waterfalls at an estimated 420 feet. Matthews Creek plunges off Raven Cliff Mountain at the Blue Ridge Escarpment near Caesars Head. The escarpment is where the Blue Ridge Mountains (part of the Appalachian chain) drop abruptly 2,000 feet to the Piedmont below. This sudden drop is the geologic reason why there are so many falls in the area. it is one of the most scenic and photographed waterfalls in the state. It was named for the ravens that breed in the high cliffs forming the falls. Over 150 species of ravens have been identified in this region.
13 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Raven Cliff Falls Trailhead
Geer Highway
13 người dân địa phương đề xuất
This is a little further from the cabin but worth the drive. Raven Cliff Falls Trail is a 4 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Cleveland, South Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Length of Trail: 4.0 miles Raven Cliff Falls is the king of South Carolina waterfalls at an estimated 420 feet. Matthews Creek plunges off Raven Cliff Mountain at the Blue Ridge Escarpment near Caesars Head. The escarpment is where the Blue Ridge Mountains (part of the Appalachian chain) drop abruptly 2,000 feet to the Piedmont below. This sudden drop is the geologic reason why there are so many falls in the area. it is one of the most scenic and photographed waterfalls in the state. It was named for the ravens that breed in the high cliffs forming the falls. Over 150 species of ravens have been identified in this region.
Just down the road from cabin. The long-awaited observation tower on Sassafras Mountain, South Carolina’s highest point at 3,553 feet above sea level, officially opened to the public on April 22, 2019, Earth Day. The Sassafras Mountain Tower, on South Carolina’s highest point, offers an unparalleled view of the mountains of South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. (SCDNR photo by Danielle Kent) The Sassafras Mountain Tower, on South Carolina’s highest point, offers an unparalleled view of the mountains of South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. (SCDNR photo by Danielle Kent) “The highest point in the state is a geographical landmark that every South Carolinian, young and old, should have the opportunity to see and enjoy,” said Alvin Taylor, director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). “We hope that the observation tower will be a place where residents and visitors can go to marvel at the view of three states and the Blue Ridge Mountains and to appreciate what a beautiful and diverse place South Carolina truly is.” To reach the Sassafras Tower (in northern Pickens County): from the town of Pickens, go 15.8 miles north on US 178 to Rocky Bottom. Turn right on F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway and go 4.7 miles to the end of the road. The gravel parking area is on the left. The Sassafras Tower, designed by Pickens architect Gil Stewart, has a natural stone appearance and sits on the South Carolina/North Carolina line. A compass rose etched into the tower shows the state line as it runs through the structure. The tower sits 11 feet above the mountain’s highest point, and the top of the tower is 44 feet in diameter. A mobility-impaired trail and ramp, along with a paved road that travels to the top, allows access for people of all abilities, and bathrooms are in place beside the parking lot. On a clear day from the top of the tower, a visitor can see 30-50 miles into the states of South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. In Fall 2010, a group of interested organizations gathered at the Pickens County Museum to discuss the possibility of constructing an observation tower on top of Sassafras Mountain. At that time, the highest point in South Carolina was difficult to find, the road was not good, and so many trees were on the summit that there was barely a view, except in winter. Those conditions on top of the mountain have now changed dramatically with the completion of the Sassafras Tower. The compass rose etched into the Sassafras Mountain Tower shows the South Carolina-North Carolina state line running through the structure. (SCDNR photo by Danielle Kent) The compass rose etched into the Sassafras Mountain Tower shows the South Carolina-North Carolina state line running through the structure. (SCDNR photo by Danielle Kent) Construction on the $1.1 million Sassafras Mountain observation tower began in November 2017 by Lazer Construction of Anderson, the general contractor for the project. Funding for the observation tower atop Sassafras Mountain came from a variety of sources, including Duke Energy, the Harry Hampton Memorial Wildlife Fund, Pickens County, Felburn Foundation, S.C. Heritage Trust and from hundreds of private supporters through commemorative brick sales. Poised on the South Carolina and North Carolina border, Sassafras Mountain is about 20 miles north of Pickens. It sits on the Eastern Continental Divide, is the tri-point of three distinct watersheds, and is home to the Foothills Trail, a 77-mile footpath between Table Rock and Oconee state parks. The Palmetto Trail, which will one day link the South Carolina mountains to the sea in a continuous trail of 500 miles, is also on the flanks of Sassafras Mountain. Sassafras Mountain is part of the Jim Timmerman Natural Resources Area at Jocassee Gorges, and the Franklin L. Gravely Wildlife Management Area, managed by SCDNR. Sassafras Mountain is listed as a tourist destination by Pickens County.
35 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Sassafras Mountain Trailhead
1391 F Van Clayton Memorial Hwy
35 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Just down the road from cabin. The long-awaited observation tower on Sassafras Mountain, South Carolina’s highest point at 3,553 feet above sea level, officially opened to the public on April 22, 2019, Earth Day. The Sassafras Mountain Tower, on South Carolina’s highest point, offers an unparalleled view of the mountains of South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. (SCDNR photo by Danielle Kent) The Sassafras Mountain Tower, on South Carolina’s highest point, offers an unparalleled view of the mountains of South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. (SCDNR photo by Danielle Kent) “The highest point in the state is a geographical landmark that every South Carolinian, young and old, should have the opportunity to see and enjoy,” said Alvin Taylor, director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). “We hope that the observation tower will be a place where residents and visitors can go to marvel at the view of three states and the Blue Ridge Mountains and to appreciate what a beautiful and diverse place South Carolina truly is.” To reach the Sassafras Tower (in northern Pickens County): from the town of Pickens, go 15.8 miles north on US 178 to Rocky Bottom. Turn right on F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway and go 4.7 miles to the end of the road. The gravel parking area is on the left. The Sassafras Tower, designed by Pickens architect Gil Stewart, has a natural stone appearance and sits on the South Carolina/North Carolina line. A compass rose etched into the tower shows the state line as it runs through the structure. The tower sits 11 feet above the mountain’s highest point, and the top of the tower is 44 feet in diameter. A mobility-impaired trail and ramp, along with a paved road that travels to the top, allows access for people of all abilities, and bathrooms are in place beside the parking lot. On a clear day from the top of the tower, a visitor can see 30-50 miles into the states of South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. In Fall 2010, a group of interested organizations gathered at the Pickens County Museum to discuss the possibility of constructing an observation tower on top of Sassafras Mountain. At that time, the highest point in South Carolina was difficult to find, the road was not good, and so many trees were on the summit that there was barely a view, except in winter. Those conditions on top of the mountain have now changed dramatically with the completion of the Sassafras Tower. The compass rose etched into the Sassafras Mountain Tower shows the South Carolina-North Carolina state line running through the structure. (SCDNR photo by Danielle Kent) The compass rose etched into the Sassafras Mountain Tower shows the South Carolina-North Carolina state line running through the structure. (SCDNR photo by Danielle Kent) Construction on the $1.1 million Sassafras Mountain observation tower began in November 2017 by Lazer Construction of Anderson, the general contractor for the project. Funding for the observation tower atop Sassafras Mountain came from a variety of sources, including Duke Energy, the Harry Hampton Memorial Wildlife Fund, Pickens County, Felburn Foundation, S.C. Heritage Trust and from hundreds of private supporters through commemorative brick sales. Poised on the South Carolina and North Carolina border, Sassafras Mountain is about 20 miles north of Pickens. It sits on the Eastern Continental Divide, is the tri-point of three distinct watersheds, and is home to the Foothills Trail, a 77-mile footpath between Table Rock and Oconee state parks. The Palmetto Trail, which will one day link the South Carolina mountains to the sea in a continuous trail of 500 miles, is also on the flanks of Sassafras Mountain. Sassafras Mountain is part of the Jim Timmerman Natural Resources Area at Jocassee Gorges, and the Franklin L. Gravely Wildlife Management Area, managed by SCDNR. Sassafras Mountain is listed as a tourist destination by Pickens County.
Located right behind cabin. Wonderful hike. Please Google for more info.
The Narrows Falls
Located right behind cabin. Wonderful hike. Please Google for more info.
A lit bit of a drive but worth it. Google for more info.
145 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Caesars Head State Park Visitor Center
8155 Geer Hwy
145 người dân địa phương đề xuất
A lit bit of a drive but worth it. Google for more info.
Very close to the cabin. Great place to spend a day. Google for more info.
158 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Công viên bang Table Rock
158 E Ellison Ln
158 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Very close to the cabin. Great place to spend a day. Google for more info.

Adventure

Not only do you slide down the falls but then it floats you on down to another small falls and then sandy beach area. Bring tubes as it makes the experience so much better. We spent about 3 hours here. Dont forget sunscreen, the water is refreshing but the sun is hot. There is a porta john ( which was clean) but no real place to change clothes. We packed a lunch also. Highly recommended for those who like adventure. I am not one to swim in lakes or non chlorinated water but i did go in this water. It's not to deep but rocky on the bottom so make sure you wear old tennis shoes or water shoes. It can be difficult to get out due to slippery rocks on the edge.
22 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Long Shoals Roadside Park
Scenic Hwy 11
22 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Not only do you slide down the falls but then it floats you on down to another small falls and then sandy beach area. Bring tubes as it makes the experience so much better. We spent about 3 hours here. Dont forget sunscreen, the water is refreshing but the sun is hot. There is a porta john ( which was clean) but no real place to change clothes. We packed a lunch also. Highly recommended for those who like adventure. I am not one to swim in lakes or non chlorinated water but i did go in this water. It's not to deep but rocky on the bottom so make sure you wear old tennis shoes or water shoes. It can be difficult to get out due to slippery rocks on the edge.
The mountain spring-fed Lake Jocassee encompassed by the Jocassee Gorges, waterfalls accessible only by boat and some of the best South Carolina trout fishing are all part of the allure of Devils Fork State Park. The land around 7,565-acre Lake Jocassee remains mostly undeveloped and the only public access point to the lake is through Devils Fork. Four mountain streams and several waterfalls feed into the lake, making it cooler than others and a great South Carolina trout fishing spot. Plus, the unusually clear water of Lake Jocassee is a haven for scuba divers and swimmers. During the spring months, hikers on the Oconee Bell Nature Trail are treated to sightings of the endangered Oconee bell wildflower.
28 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Lake Jocasse
28 người dân địa phương đề xuất
The mountain spring-fed Lake Jocassee encompassed by the Jocassee Gorges, waterfalls accessible only by boat and some of the best South Carolina trout fishing are all part of the allure of Devils Fork State Park. The land around 7,565-acre Lake Jocassee remains mostly undeveloped and the only public access point to the lake is through Devils Fork. Four mountain streams and several waterfalls feed into the lake, making it cooler than others and a great South Carolina trout fishing spot. Plus, the unusually clear water of Lake Jocassee is a haven for scuba divers and swimmers. During the spring months, hikers on the Oconee Bell Nature Trail are treated to sightings of the endangered Oconee bell wildflower.
Close to Ceaser's Head. Worth the drive. If you're driving to Caesars Head State Park, you might notice cars parked in a small pull-off on the east side of U.S. 276 about five miles from the park headquarters. The big attraction here is Bald Rock, a natural scenic overlook offering a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. A wooden footbridge near the parking area leads to a huge rock outcropping the size of a football field. The summit is so large, you can enjoy the panorama without feeling the slightest bit apprehensive, even if you have a fear of heights. Part of the Bald Rock Heritage Preserve, the outcropping overlooks the foothills of Pickens and Greenville counties and South Carolina's signature natural attraction - the mammoth granite dome known as Table Rock. It's easy to miss this primo photo op since there are no signs posted on the winding mountain road alerting drivers to the overlook. As eager as you might be to get to Caesars Head, take a few minutes and check it out. You won't be disappointed. Managed by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, the preserve lies within the Mountain Bridge Wilderness area and spans 165 acres. The rock outcropping is surrounded by a forest of pines and hardwoods. Lichens and mosses have colonized portions of the rock, creating pockets and cracks in the granite. Unfortunately, the rock also features graffiti, most of it of the "Jack loves Judy" variety. But you won't find much in the way of litter thanks to a beautification project initiated by the DNR, the state's Department of Transportation and volunteers. Find a spot on the rock, sit back and enjoy your own "king of the world" moment.
39 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Khu bảo tồn Di sản Bald Rock
39 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Close to Ceaser's Head. Worth the drive. If you're driving to Caesars Head State Park, you might notice cars parked in a small pull-off on the east side of U.S. 276 about five miles from the park headquarters. The big attraction here is Bald Rock, a natural scenic overlook offering a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. A wooden footbridge near the parking area leads to a huge rock outcropping the size of a football field. The summit is so large, you can enjoy the panorama without feeling the slightest bit apprehensive, even if you have a fear of heights. Part of the Bald Rock Heritage Preserve, the outcropping overlooks the foothills of Pickens and Greenville counties and South Carolina's signature natural attraction - the mammoth granite dome known as Table Rock. It's easy to miss this primo photo op since there are no signs posted on the winding mountain road alerting drivers to the overlook. As eager as you might be to get to Caesars Head, take a few minutes and check it out. You won't be disappointed. Managed by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, the preserve lies within the Mountain Bridge Wilderness area and spans 165 acres. The rock outcropping is surrounded by a forest of pines and hardwoods. Lichens and mosses have colonized portions of the rock, creating pockets and cracks in the granite. Unfortunately, the rock also features graffiti, most of it of the "Jack loves Judy" variety. But you won't find much in the way of litter thanks to a beautification project initiated by the DNR, the state's Department of Transportation and volunteers. Find a spot on the rock, sit back and enjoy your own "king of the world" moment.

Food scene

Spring Hours Sunday: 11am–4pm Monday: Closed Tuesday–Thursday: 11am–6pm Friday: 11am–8pm Saturday: 8am–7am
25 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Aunt Sue's Country Corner
107 Country Creek Dr
25 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Spring Hours Sunday: 11am–4pm Monday: Closed Tuesday–Thursday: 11am–6pm Friday: 11am–8pm Saturday: 8am–7am
Great Steaks, at night they have a band. 4259 Pickens Hwy Rosman, North Carolina 28772 Five miles from cabin
RiverBend Lodge Restaurant & Bar
4259 Pickens Hwy
Great Steaks, at night they have a band. 4259 Pickens Hwy Rosman, North Carolina 28772 Five miles from cabin
Business Hours Monday 11am-5pm CLOSED Tue. – Wed. Thurs 11am-5pm Fri. & Sat. 11am-6pm Sunday 12pm-6pm The Café Our Full Lunch Menu is available from Open-3pm & our Small Plates & Desserts are available until close.
34 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Vườn nho Victoria Valley
1360 S Saluda Rd
34 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Business Hours Monday 11am-5pm CLOSED Tue. – Wed. Thurs 11am-5pm Fri. & Sat. 11am-6pm Sunday 12pm-6pm The Café Our Full Lunch Menu is available from Open-3pm & our Small Plates & Desserts are available until close.

Food scene

The Rock Golf Course Hours: Mon-Tue: CLOSED Wed-Thur: 11:30 – 8:00 Fri-Sat: 11:30 – 10:00 Sunday: 11:00 – 4
11 người dân địa phương đề xuất
The Rock Golf Club & Resort
171 Sliding Rock Rd
11 người dân địa phương đề xuất
The Rock Golf Course Hours: Mon-Tue: CLOSED Wed-Thur: 11:30 – 8:00 Fri-Sat: 11:30 – 10:00 Sunday: 11:00 – 4