A Drive Down South Carolina's Loneliest Road Will Take You Miles And Miles Away From It All
By Robin Jarvis
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Published April 20, 2017
The most beautiful state in the country is home to some spectacular scenic roads where you’re certain to find lots of eye candy to oogle while you drive. South Carolina’s “loneliest road” is among the list of South Carolina scenic byways and is surrounded by natural attractions you’ll want to visit.
Falling Waters South Carolina Scenic Byway is located in Oconee County.
It's also known as SC-107. It starts at SC-28 just north of Walhalla and extends for 13 miles to the North Carolina border.
Travel up this quiet, mostly undeveloped road through the Sumter National Forest and get a sense of being millions of miles from everything.
But, there are some points of interest along the way that may surprise you.
In the Spring, enjoy the wildflowers found alongside this two-lane, lonely but gorgeous drive.
Since this road is in Oconee County, it's only proper to seek out the popular Oconee Bell among the wildflowers.
Relish the peace and quiet on this drive, but don't miss the turnoff onto Burrells Ford Road.
Make the turn, then start looking for the trailhead not far beyond the turnoff that takes you to King Creek Falls - a 70-foot spectacle in the middle of the woods.
Falling Waters Scenic Byway dishes up some spectacular views.
The lookout is the perfect spot to pull off and have a zen moment as you admire the stunning view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Also found along this short lonely highway: the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery.
Tour the hatchery grounds and then head to the adjacent picnic area.
If you have your pole, you can take the short hike through the picnic area over to the Chattooga River to catch some fish of your own. Or just enjoy the hike.
Oconee State Park is located here in the Sumter National Forest.
An entrance to the park is located on Falling Waters Scenic Byway, SC-107.
The park offers everything from camping and boating, to hiking on seven trails.
Enjoy the perks of this mountain retreat and all it has to offer. If you're in to "glamping" they even have cabins for rent.
As if this "lonesome highway" doesn't have enough natural attractions, there's also a spring located alongside the road.
You'll find crystal clear spring water at this roadside oasis where water falls continuously from a natural spring. There's a small space to pull over - as well as benches you can rest on. The spring is located on the west side of the road.
Google map location .
All these activities on SC-107 are sure to help you work up an appetite.
Why not pull off at the roadside picnic area for a snack break?
Or, you could head to
Mountain Rest Cafe' located at the southern-most end of the road, a few hundred yards beyond where SC-107 intersects SC-28.
For decades and decades this lonely mountain road has been a favorite jaunt for locals and visitors alike. This photo was taken in the summer of 1952.
Have you discovered all the hidden beauty and natural attractions found along this lonesome highway in South Carolina?
We’d love to hear about your experience in our comments!
South Carolina has many natural wonders, like this fleeting natural event that only happens once a year in the Palmetto State. We hope you make this your year to get out and explore South Carolina.
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