For those days when hiking uphill is simply out of the question, head to Chau Ram River Park in Oconee County for a short, one-mile hike that’s both easy on the eyes and on the body. This lovely county park includes three miles of easy, well-marked and well-maintained trails that are perfect for exploring the park and its water elements.
From the moment you arrive — and before you even exit your car — you'll be wow'd by the four-story waterfall seen from the parking area with no hiking required.
It's not that it's a big drop from the bridge to the water. No, it's the sheer length of this suspended wooden structure. It's spans a total of 160 feet over the Chauga River and may be the longest suspension bridge in the state.
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And all of the wires that support it are sure to fascinate everyone on your hike.
The trails at Chau Ram County Park are suited to hikers of all ages and levels and many of the trails have a hard surface, making them even more accessible. Kids and adults alike love exploring the park's many trails.
Dogs are allowed on the trails, as long as they're leashed. And the four-legged members of the family will love dipping their toes (and more) in the water. The one-mile loop has many little side trails that lead down to the river, affording a world of opportunity to cool off.
The one-mile loop trail travels for approximately half its length along the river and then turns to explore the forested areas as it returns back to the suspension bridge and parking area.
It's located just outside of Westminster and can be found 20 miles west of Clemson and 50 miles southwest of Greenville.
Not all hikes have to be of the uphill variety and take hours and hours to complete. Spend an hour – or a day – exploring the Chau Ram Falls Trail and the other easy trails at Chau Ram County Park! It’s open seasonally from March through mid-November. Day use hours are from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Learn more from this link. And if you want more information on the hike itself, consult our friends at alltrails.com.
Address: 1220 Chau Ram Park Road, Westminster, SC, 29693
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