Hiking Trails of Table Rock State Park in Upstate South Carolina

Table Rock State Park has been called the jewel of the upstate, and it's a must see for every nature enthusiast and outdoor sportsperson. Although there is plenty to see and do at the park, it's worth hitting the hiking trails to really experience area. There are a handful of hiking trails in the park, but three hiking trails are of particular note: Carrick Creek Trail, Pinnacle Mountain Trail, and Table Rock Summit Trail. If you are hiking any of the park's trails other than Carrick Creek Trail, you must fill out a registration form at the trail head and remember to drop off the pink copy in the box when you return.

Carrick Creek Trail

The Carrick Creek Nature Trail is a great place to bring the family and really the only hike in the park that fit for everyone. This is one of the most scenic short hikes in the Upstate, weaving along Carrick and Green Creeks as they cascades down a long series of flat rocks and cascades into pools and small waterfalls. There is a wide variety of wildflowers that grow along the trail and guided nature walks are available at some periods during the year. Although the loop is only 1.9 miles long, there is enough of an incline and rough trail to give everyone in your party a heart healthy workout. Be aware that this is easily the most popular trail in park and can be a little crowded on the weekends.

Pinnacle Mountain Trail

This strenuous 8 mile hike rewards hikers with a summit of Pinnacle Mountain, waterfalls and overlooks that stretch to Greenville and beyond. The yellow blazed trail is well marked and provides an in and out hike, although you may choose to make a loop by returning from the summit via the easier 2 mile long Ridge Trail and down the Table Rock Summit Trail to the parking area instead. Reaching the summit is a 2332 foot climb, so be ready for a decent work out and bring an appropriate quantity of water. There is a spur trail along the way that takes you to Mill Creek Falls that is worth the detour before the trail reaches Bald Knob Overlook. This is a great spot for a break before your final ascent.

Table Rock Summit Trail

This is the big one that takes you to the bald top of Table Rock Mountain. The park describes this 7.2 mile hike as highly strenuous, and I'm inclined to agree. However, I'm a solid intermediate hiker, and I got up and back with out too much wear and tear. The first portion of the hike is through some of the pleasant pools and small waterfalls ofCarrick Creek, but you will soon begin the grueling switch backs heading up the 2400 foot elevation gain. When the trail meets up with Ridge Trail, continue following the red blazed Table Rock Summit Trail off to the right. Now that you're on the ridge, living is relatively easy. As you make your way to the summit, you'll pass another large bald area on your left that is a nice spot for a break, but it's still a ways to the top. When you hit the summit, you'll know it. From atop the massive, sheer rock-face that is Table Rock, you'll have spectacular views, especially on a clear day, as well as the pleasure of enjoying the Table Rock summit itself. Keep an eye out for birds of prey such as hawks that may be surveying the area with you.

Sources:

http://www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder/state-park/350/things-to-do.aspx
http://www.localhikes.com/Hikes/TableRock_3160.asp
http://www.emapstore.com/sc_blue_ridge_mountains/Hike/table_rock_sc.htm