Hiking in the Lakes Region
Get Lost in Nature
Explore numerous nature walks and hiking trails around the lake and uncover hidden waterfalls and viewing points around the lake.
Oconee Bells Nature Trail
The Oconee Bells Nature Trail is a popular hiking destination in Devils Fork State Park, South Carolina. Named after the rare Oconee Bell wildflowers that bloom along the trail in spring, this 1.0-mile loop trail is considered easy and takes about 27 minutes to complete.
Trail Highlights
Oconee Bell Wildflowers
These delicate, white flowers are only found in a few parts of the southern Appalachians and are a major attraction of the trail.
Waterfalls
The trail features two small waterfalls, adding to the scenic beauty of the hike.
Wildlife
The trail is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer.
Peaceful Atmosphere
The trail winds through a hardwood forest, providing a peaceful and relaxing environment for hiking.
Raven Rock Loop
The Raven Rock Loop is a 4.3-mile loop trail located in Keowee-Toxaway State Park, South Carolina. It's considered a moderately challenging hike with an average completion time of around 2 hours and 11 minutes. The trail offers a variety of terrains, including rocky outcrops, natural bridges, a lakeshore campsite, and a beautiful stream crossing.
Trail Highlights
Natural Bridge
Cross Poe Creek over a natural granite bridge.
Raven Rock
Enjoy panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Lake Keowee from the rocky summit.
Lake Keowee
Hike along the lakeshore and enjoy the scenic beauty of the water.
Wildlife
Spot various wildlife, including white-tailed deer, chipmunks, and salamanders.
Historic Significance
Hike on land that was once traversed by Cherokee Indians.
Keowee-Toxaway
Natural Bridge Trail
The Keowee-Toxaway Natural Bridge Trail is a 0.8-mile loop trail located in Keowee-Toxaway State Park, South Carolina. It's considered an easy hike with an average completion time of around 27 minutes. The trail features a stunning natural bridge that spans Poe Creek, offering picturesque views of the surrounding area.
Trail Highlights
Natural Bridge
The main attraction of the trail is the natural bridge, a unique geological formation that spans Poe Creek.
Scenic Views
The trail offers scenic views of Poe Creek and the surrounding forest.
Wildlife
The trail is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer.
Easy Hike
The trail is suitable for hikers of all ages and fitness levels.
Keowee Yellow Trail
The Keowee Yellow Trail is a 1.0-mile out-and-back trail located near Sunset, South Carolina. It's considered an easy route with an average completion time of 29 minutes. The trail offers a peaceful and scenic walk along the shores of Lake Keowee, with beautiful views of the water and surrounding mountains.
Trail Highlights
Lake Keowee Views
Enjoy stunning views of Lake Keowee, one of the largest lakes in South Carolina.
Peaceful Atmosphere
The trail offers a tranquil and relaxing environment for hiking.
Easy Hike
The trail is suitable for hikers of all ages and fitness levels.
Camping and Fishing
The trailhead is located near a campground and offers opportunities for fishing in Lake Keowee.
Eastatoe Passage to
Keowee-Toxaway
The Eastatoe Passage to Keowee-Toxaway is a 4.5-mile point-to-point trail located near Sunset, South Carolina. It's considered a moderately challenging route with an average completion time of 2 hours and 14 minutes. The trail offers a variety of terrains, including forests, meadows, and streams, and features a stunning natural bridge and a suspension bridge.
Trail Highlights
Natural Bridge
Cross Poe Creek over a natural granite bridge.
Suspension Bridge
Walk across a thrilling suspension bridge over Eastatoe Creek.
Scenic Views
Enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Wildlife
Spot various wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer.
Waterfalls
Admire several small waterfalls along the trail.
Mile Creek Park Nature Trail
The Mile Creek Park Nature Trail is a 3.0-mile loop trail located near Six Mile, South Carolina. It's considered a moderately challenging route with an average completion time of 1 hour and 10 minutes. The trail offers a variety of terrains, including forests, meadows, and streams, and features stunning views of Lake Keowee.
Trail Highlights
Lake Keowee Views
Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Keowee, one of the largest lakes in South Carolina.
Wildlife
Spot various wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer.
Scenic Beauty
The trail offers a peaceful and scenic environment for hiking.
Moderately Challenging
The trail is suitable for hikers of all fitness levels, with some moderate inclines and declines.
Fishing
The trailhead is located near a fishing pier, providing opportunities for fishing in Lake Keowee.
The best times to visit the Mile Creek Park Nature Trail are spring, summer, and fall. Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be on a leash.