This Mountain Hiking Trail In South Carolina Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination
By AnneMarie|Published November 21, 2023
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AnneMarie
Author
South Carolina has been home for AnneMarie since 2001. Her favorite part of the state is Lake Jocassee. An App State alumna, it's always the mountains; the lake bonus makes it heavenly. When not writing about the state, she may be spending time with family, relaxing by the pool, or out somewhere enjoying nature.
For those of you who love to hike, did you know this activity comes with physical benefits, such as decreasing the risk of certain respiratory problems? Wow. That’s surely good information to consider after the 2020 pandemic experience we all endured. Of course, there are the more obvious benefits of building stronger muscles and bones and improving heart health as well, not to mention the mental health benefits of just being out in nature. Another interesting fact is there are more than 200,000 miles of hiking trails in the United States, and that number grows by 3,000 miles each year. Let’s explore a trail covering a minuscule almost seven miles out-and-back that’s one of the best hikes near Mountain Rest, S.C. you can take.
Tucked away in the northwestern corner of South Carolina that intersects with both North Carolina and Georgia, near beautiful Lake Jocassee, is Winding Stairs Trail. You'll find the northern trailhead just south of the Cherry Hill Recreation Center entrance and the southern trailhead on Tamassee Road just near the Townes Creek bridge.
The northern end of the trail is easier than the southern end, with a 1,100-foot drop over the length of the trail. Even starting on the southern end, the trail is considered a moderate hike but suitable for beginner hikers.
This trail near Mountain Rest has some pretty and varied scenery along the way, with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains peeking through the trees in places.
It makes interesting twists and curves, especially in the middle part of the route. It runs alongside West Fork Crane Creek, so you'll enjoy water views and sounds along your hike as well as a few creek crossings.
The highlight of your hike is this beauty, Mikua Falls, which is 75 feet tall. The path to the falls is not totally obvious, especially in winter and early spring, so keep your eyes open as you reach the part of the trail where you will need to look for it, not quite halfway through the hike if starting at the northern trailhead.
