National Recreation Trail

Table Rock NRT

(Table Rock State Park)

Description: The 3.4-mile Table Rock Trail is a highly strenuous, out-and-back hike within the scenic and popular Table Rock State Park in the northwest corner of South Carolina. There are 10 miles of trails in the park system, but only the Table Rock National Recreation Trail ascends 2,000 feet to the summit of the imposing granite dome, Table Rock Mountain (3,157 feet). The red-blazed hike begins at the Carrick Creek Interpretive Center and ascends steeply through an open forest strewn with boulders. Along the way, you will see vegetation typical of the Southern Appalachians: dominant oak and hickory trees with scattered pines and hemlock. As you might guess, the strenuous hike offers the reward of spectacular views from the summit.

Length: 3.6 miles one way

Directions: From Greenville, drive north on US 276 north until it joins SC 11. Stay on SC 11 when it branches from US 276 and continue for approximately 7 miles to the West Gate of Table Rock State Park on the right. Enter the park and follow the signs to the Nature Center. After a short hike on the Carrick Creek Trail, bear to the right onto the Table Rock NRT.

Camping: No trailside camping. Call 1-866-345-PARK (7275) or go online at www.SouthCarolinaParks.com to make reservations.

Park Information: Table Rock State Park, 246 Table Rock State Park Road, Pickens, SC 29671, Telephone: 864-878-9813.