Hike Title: Chimneytop Gap and Sassafrass Mountain Trail

Distance: 5.1 miles (out-and-back)

Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,305 feet

Ability Level: Moderately Challenging – Ideal for hikers with some experience; features a steady elevation gain and scenic views.

Route Summary: Located near Sunset, SC, this trail offers a rewarding hike to Sassafrass Mountain, the highest point in South Carolina. The trail winds through beautiful woodlands with views that open up as we gain elevation, culminating in panoramic vistas at the summit. The out-and-back route offers ample opportunities for nature spotting and includes a mix of shaded forest paths and scenic overlooks, making it a great trail for both fitness and sightseeing.

Meeting Place & Parking: All hikers should meet at the Chimneytop Gap trailhead by 8:45 AM. The hike will begin promptly at 9:00 AM.

Address: Chimneytop Gap, Sunset, SC 29685.

Cost: Free entry and parking at Chimneytop Gap.

What to Bring:

• At least 2 liters of water and high-energy snacks
• Comfortable hiking boots with good traction for rocky sections
• Weather-appropriate clothing, with layers for cooler summit conditions
• A camera for capturing the scenic summit views

If you have any questions, please reach out to Ryan Jobs at [email protected].

Join the Y Hiking Club on Facebook to connect with other members, see photos from past hikes, and stay updated on future events. This hike is perfect for those wanting to challenge themselves and experience the breathtaking views from the highest point in South Carolina. We look forward to hitting the trail with you!

Hike: Carrick Creek, Mountain Laurel, Palmetto, & Pinnacle Connector Loop (Table Rock State Park)

Overview:

• Distance: 4.52 miles (Loop)

• Elevation Gain: 981 feet

• Difficulty: Moderate, with steady climbs and some steep sections

• Estimated Hiking Time: 3–3.5 hours (including breaks)

• Trail Surface: Natural surface with rocky terrain, exposed roots, wooden stairs, and rustic bridge crossings alongside mountain streams

Description:

This scenic and rewarding loop combines several of Table Rock State Park’s beautiful trails, starting directly from the park’s Visitor Center. The route takes you along the rushing waters of Carrick Creek, transitioning through lush mountain laurel thickets and groves of palmettos. You will experience a steady climb via the Pinnacle Connector, offering gorgeous forest views, lively cascades, and a true taste of Upstate South Carolina’s rugged landscape before looping back down.

Important Considerations:

• Trail Difficulty: Moderate. The trail features nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain, requiring a reasonable level of physical fitness. Be prepared for uneven footing.

• Navigation: The hike transitions through multiple connected trails (Carrick, Mountain Laurel, Palmetto, and Pinnacle Connector). It is well-signed, but staying with the group is important.

• Footwear & Gear: Sturdy, moisture-resistant hiking shoes or boots are highly recommended due to muddy spots and slick rocks near the creeks. Hiking poles are excellent for the elevation changes.

• Weather: Rocks and wooden bridges can become exceptionally slippery after rainfall.

What to Bring:

• Hiking poles

• Water (minimum 1.5 to 2 liters)

• Energy snacks or a light trail lunch

• Bug spray and sunscreen

Park Information:

• Access: Table Rock State Park entry fee applies ($6 per adult; free with SC State Park Pass).

• Restrooms: Available inside the Visitor Center at the trailhead.

• GPS Address: Table Rock State Park Visitor Center — 158 E Ellison Ln, Pickens, SC 29671

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 Table Rock State Park Visitor Center parking lot at 8:45 AM. Look for Ryan’s vehicle. We will depart promptly for the trail at 9:00 AM.

Hike: Triple Falls Tour, High Falls and & Hooker Falls

Overview:

• Distance: 4.3 miles (out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 553 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Estimated Hiking Time: About 3 hours (depending on hike, breaks, and pace)
• Trail Surface: Natural trails with moderate incline, slick surfaces, tree roots, and stream crossings

Description:

This hike takes you on a waterfall tour through DuPont State Recreational Forest near Pisgah, NC, visiting Hooker Falls, High Falls, and Triple Falls. You will see a total of five waterfalls on this beautiful hike. The 150ft High Falls was famously used in the original Hunger Games movie. The route is a moderate out-and-back hike featuring multiple stunning waterfalls along well-traveled forest trails.

Important Considerations:

• Trail Difficulty: This hike is moderate. Be prepared for natural trails with moderate incline, slick surfaces, tree roots, and stream crossings.
• Navigation: Trails are generally well-signed in DuPont State Recreational Forest.
• Footwear & Gear: Appropriate footwear and clothing are strongly recommended, depending on the weather.
• Physical Condition: A moderate level of fitness is recommended for this hike.
• Other: The maximum number of hikers is 20 members; no guests or outside family members are allowed due to past Covid conditions and insurance requirements. Please check your email the night before the hike in case of inclement weather cancellation and confirm your receipt. Cell coverage is often not available on park grounds or many trail locations.

What to Bring:

• Hiking poles
• Plenty of water
• Appropriate rain gear, gloves, footwear, and clothing depending on weather
• Pack a lunch if you want to picnic at the available park tables after the hike

Park Information:

• Access: DuPont State Recreational Forest. Free entry.
• Restrooms: Restrooms and a visitors center are available near the parking lot.
• GPS Address: Use the address for the Aleen Steinberg Visitor Center at DuPont State Recreational Forest: 89 Buck Forest Road, Cedar Mountain, NC
• Parking: Meet at DuPont’s main park office parking lot on Buck Forest Rd. Follow signs after turning off Staton Rd onto Buck Forest Rd for about 1.4 miles.

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 main park office parking lot on Buck Forest Road at 8:45 AM, look for the white Nissan Pickup with the tailgate down.   We will head out for the hike promptly at 9:00 AM.

If you have any questions about this hike, please email Ryan Jobs ([email protected]).

Hike: Rainbow Falls & Turtleback Falls (Gorges State Park)

Overview:

• Distance: 4.9 miles (out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 770 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate, with some short, steep sections
• Estimated Hiking Time: 3–4 hours (including breaks)
• Trail Surface: Natural surface with slopes of varying degrees, wooden bridge crossings, roots, and rocky sections

Description:

This beautiful hike leads to Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls, two stunning waterfalls within Gorges State Park near Sapphire, NC. The trail follows a moderate path with steady elevation gains and includes a few water crossings via wooden bridges. If conditions are safe and dry, there’s an opportunity to cool off in the natural pool at Turtleback Falls. (Note: The pool is unsafe after heavy rain.) Expect a scenic trail, lively cascades, and vibrant greenery along the way.

Important Considerations:

• Trail Difficulty: Moderate, requiring a good level of fitness. Be prepared for some uphill sections and uneven terrain.
• Navigation: Well-marked trail, easy to follow.
• Footwear & Gear: Proper hiking shoes are necessary. Hiking poles are highly recommended.
• Weather: If there has been heavy rain, water levels can make swimming and river crossings hazardous.

What to Bring:

• Hiking poles
• Water (minimum 1.5 liters)
• Energy snacks
• Optional: Towel or quick-dry clothes if planning to wade at the falls

Park Information:

• Access: Free with entry into Gorges State Park.
• Restrooms: Available at the Visitor Center and near the trailhead.
• GPS Address: Turtleback Falls – 976 Grassy Ridge Rd, Lake Toxaway, NC 28774

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 Turtleback-Rainbow Falls parking lot at 8:45 AM. Look for Ryan’s vehicle. We will depart promptly at 9:00 AM.

Hike: Brissy Ridge, Kanuga, & Pipsissewa Trail Loop (Paris Mountain State Park)

Overview:

• Distance: 5.2 miles (Loop)

• Elevation Gain: 777 feet

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Estimated Hiking Time: 3–3.5 hours (including breaks)

• Trail Surface: Natural surface with varying terrain, including forest paths and potential rocky or root-heavy sections

Description:

Explore the natural beauty of Greenville’s backyard on this classic Paris Mountain loop. This hike offers a diverse experience, connecting the Brissy Ridge, Kanuga, and Pipsissewa trails. You will enjoy a scenic forest trek that features views of the park’s tranquil lake, quiet woodland paths, and a great workout with steady elevation changes. This is a popular trail for nature lovers and a perfect way to experience the park’s year-round accessibility.

Important Considerations:

• Trail Difficulty: Moderate. With over 750 feet of elevation gain, expect some consistent uphill sections.

• Pets: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times.

• Footwear & Gear: Wear comfortable, supportive hiking shoes or trail runners. Given the varied surface, hydration and appropriate outdoor clothing are recommended.

• Community: Don’t forget to join our “Y Hiking Club” page on Facebook to connect with fellow club members and view photos from our previous adventures!

What to Bring:

• Water (minimum 1.5 liters)

• Energy snacks

• Weather-appropriate clothing

• Bug spray/sunscreen (seasonally)

Park Information:

• Access: State Park pass or $5 admission per vehicle required.

• Parking: Meet at the Brissy Ridge Parking lot located at the mountain summit. If full, use the designated overflow lot.

• GPS Address: Paris Mountain State Park, 2401 State Park Rd, Greenville, SC 29609

Carpooling & Questions:

If you have any questions about this hike or need to coordinate carpooling, please email Ryan Jobs at [email protected].

Meeting Time & Location:

Meet at the Brissy Ridge Trailhead at 8:45 AM for check-in and orientation. We will depart promptly at 9:00 AM.

Stool Mountain Trail

Distance: 5.4 miles round trip

Elevation Gain: Over 1,500 feet

Ability Level: Strenuous to Very Strenuous –Best for experienced hikers in good condition; includes steep climbs, boulder fields, stream valleys, and rock overhangs.

Route Summary: Beginning at the Table Rock State Park Nature Center, the Stool Mountain Trail splits off from the Carrick Creek Trail and climbs steeply through a variety of rugged terrain. Hikers will pass through stream valleys, scramble across boulder fields, and make their way under dramatic rock overhangs before reaching the 2,615-foot summit of Stool Mountain. The reward is well worth the effort: sweeping, one-of-a-kind views of Table Rock Mountain’s main face and panoramic vistas of the Table Rock Reservoir. The trail is marked with blue-over-white blazes and offers a true wilderness experience for those ready for a challenge.

Meeting Place & Parking: Meet at the Table Rock State Park Nature Center at 8:45 AM. We’ll set out on the trail promptly at 9:00 AM.

Address: Table Rock State Park Nature Center, 158 Ellison Lane, Pickens, SC 29671

Cost: $6 per adult (state park entry fee); payable at the entrance gate.

What to Bring:

• At least 2 liters of water and plenty of high-energy snacks

• Sturdy hiking boots with excellent traction

• Trekking poles (highly recommended for steep climbs and descents)

• Weather-appropriate layers (summit may be cooler/windy)

• Camera for capturing the sweeping summit views

This is one of the most challenging hikes in our schedule, but also one of the most rewarding. Join us for a memorable day as we take on Stool Mountain together and enjoy God’s breathtaking creation from the summit! 🌄