Hike: Bridal Overlook via Mine Mountain, Laurel Ridge, and Corn Mill Shoals

Overview:

• Distance: 4.3 miles (loop)

• Elevation Gain: ~538 feet

• Difficulty: Moderate, with rolling elevation changes and a few short steep sections

• Estimated Hiking Time: 2.5–3.5 hours (including breaks and time at the overlook)

• Trail Surface: Mostly natural surface, including packed dirt, loose gravel, rocky areas, roots, and potential muddy sections depending on recent rain

Description:

This scenic loop in DuPont State Recreational Forest offers a lesser-traveled route to Bridal Veil Falls Overlook—a quiet spot with views of the surrounding Blue Ridge landscape. We’ll begin on Mine Mountain Trail, connect to Laurel Ridge Trail, and then loop back via Corn Mill Shoals Trail. Along the way, we’ll pass through a mix of hardwood forest, open ridgelines, and babbling creeks.

While not as rugged as some of our previous hikes, this route has a few moderately strenuous sections and rewards hikers with peaceful scenery and light foot traffic. We’ll take a break at the overlook before completing the loop.

Important Considerations:

• Trail Difficulty: This hike is moderate overall, but does require some uphill hiking and a basic level of fitness. Beginners comfortable with 4+ miles of hiking are welcome.

• Navigation: The trail is well-marked, but intersects with several other trails. A GPS map or AllTrails app is helpful.

• Footwear & Gear: Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners are recommended. Hiking poles are optional but helpful on uneven terrain.

What to Bring:

• Water (at least 1–1.5 liters)

• Electrolytes (e.g., Gatorade, Liquid IV)

• Light snack or lunch for the overlook

• Sunscreen and bug spray

• Optional: Hiking poles, camera, small towel if exploring any creeks

Park Information:

• Access: Free admission. No park pass required.

• Restrooms: Portable toilets may be available at the trailhead (check before going).

• GPS Address: Google Maps Link – 3051 Reasonover Rd, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718

• Parking: Fawn Lake Access Area– fills quickly on weekends, so arrive early.

Carpooling:

Interested in carpooling? Please email Ryan Jobs ([email protected]) after registering, and we’ll coordinate rides for those who request it.

Meeting Time & Location:

Meet at the Fawn Lake Access Area at 8:45 AM. The hike will begin promptly at 9:00 AM.

Nine Times Preserve – Cedar Rock Mountain & Big Rock Mountain Loop

Overview:

• Distance: 5.9 miles (loop)

• Elevation Gain: 1,463 feet

• Difficulty: Difficult, with steep and rocky sections

• Estimated Hiking Time: About 5 hours (including breaks)

• Trail Surface: Natural terrain, steep inclines, boulder scrambling, and uneven paths

Description:

This challenging loop in Nine Times Preserve near Pickens, SC, climbs both Cedar Rock Mountain and Big Rock Mountain. The trail features steep ascents, rugged terrain, and a memorable ¼-mile section on Big Rock Mountain where hikers must scramble across large boulders.

The reward: panoramic views, diverse forest habitat, and one of the most unique hiking experiences in the Upstate. This is not a casual stroll—be prepared for a workout and an adventure.

Important Considerations:

• Trail Difficulty: Rated difficult. You must be in good physical condition and comfortable with strenuous uphill climbs and rocky footing.

• Navigation: Trails are marked but include multiple intersections. Stay with the group.

• Footwear & Gear: Hiking boots or rigid-soled trail shoes are required. Hiking poles are highly recommended for stability.

• Facilities: There are no restrooms at the preserve.

What to Bring:

• Plenty of water

• Energy snacks

• Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes

• Hiking poles (recommended)

• Extra layers depending on weather

Park Information:

• Access: Free – Nine Times Preserve, Pickens, SC

• Restrooms: None at this location

• GPS Address: Cedar Rock Trail Parking Lot – Corner of Nine Times Rd. & E. Preston McDonald Rd., Pickens, SC
  Google Maps Link

Carpooling:

If you’re interested in carpooling, please email Ryan Jobs ([email protected]) after registering, and I’ll connect those who want to ride together.

Meeting Time & Location:
Meet at the main parking lot (corner of Nine Times Rd. and E. Preston McDonald Rd.) at 8:45 AM to review safety and hiking guidelines. We’ll begin the hike promptly at 9:00 AM.