One of South Carolina’s most picturesque drives is filled with opportunities for exploration beyond the usual tourist spots. In fact, we’ve compiled a selection of exciting activities you can enjoy in just one day along the stunning Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway, also known as SC-11.
For residents of South Carolina’s Upstate, the secrets of this scenic route are well-known. The area boasts an impressive array of attractions, including Table Rock State Park, various charming wineries, cascading waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, cozy cabin resorts, delightful restaurants, and much more. Each turn on this byway reveals yet another chance for adventure.
To help guide your journey, you can check out this interactive Google map designed for your road trip experience.
Spanning nearly 100 miles, this day trip is your ticket to uncovering some of the state’s most enchanting hidden gems.
The journey will take you a little less than 2.5 hours of driving, but with various stops along the way, you can easily turn this road trip into a whole day filled with adventure and unforgettable experiences. Are you prepared? Let’s hit the road!
Your escapade kicks off on Callahan Mountain Road, home to the oldest stone bridge in the state—and possibly the oldest in the entire Southern region.
Measuring 120 feet in length and featuring a stunning 14-foot gothic arch that lets Little Gap Creek flow beneath it, the Poinsett Bridge was constructed in 1820 and is steeped in intriguing stories.
To fully appreciate this historic landmark, park your vehicle across the road where the area has been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly park. Take the opportunity to step out and discover the surroundings on foot.
Nestled in a tranquil area with minimal traffic, this location offers a serene escape. You might even find yourself alone, apart from the specters that visitors have claimed to encounter in this area.
After soaking in the solitude, return to your car and continue along the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway. Get ready for breathtaking vistas as you make your way past Table Rock and the gateway to Table Rock State Park. Keep an eye on your map and take the recommended detours. Once you’ve nearly reached the summit of Sassafras Mountain, the tallest peak in South Carolina, park your vehicle and step outside to enjoy the stunning scenery.
At the edge of the gravel parking lot, you’ll find the short trail up to the top of Sassafras Mountain. The elevation here is 3,554 feet above sea level — plus another 14 feet once you’ve climbed up to the new tower atop Sassafras Mountain.
Launched in 2019, the tower features a unique characteristic: the state line runs directly through its center.
Managed solely by South Carolina, this unique structure has a special arrangement with our northern neighbor, enabling it to extend across state lines. This creates delightful photo opportunities for visitors who enjoy capturing the moment with one foot in each state for a memorable snapshot.
Once you ascend to elevated viewpoints where you can gaze at three states simultaneously, you’ll continue your journey to the trailhead for Lower Whitewater Falls, located just within the boundaries of South Carolina.
Take a turn onto Bad Creek Road and embark on a brief hike to reach the observation platform. Along the way, you’ll walk a segment of the scenic Foothills Trail, which stretches over 70 miles, to capture an ideal photo like the one shown. The round trip hike will take approximately an hour.
Additionally, it’s important to note that if you’re equipped with a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you’ll have no trouble accessing the various hidden gems along this road trip.
Just two more destinations to go! Our next stop is Oconee State Park.
This hidden gem of a park has plenty to offer, but don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a brief hike to Oconee Station Falls (see image below).
Standing at an impressive eight stories tall, this majestic waterfall dominates the landscape as you traverse the scenic woodland path leading to it.
Despite its impressive height, this waterfall boasts an even greater width, offering a breathtaking visual and auditory experience. Once you’ve taken in the magnificent sight, return to your vehicle and continue on to our next stop.
Just a short drive from Oconee State Park, you’ll discover Tunnel Park in Walhalla. This site features an unfinished railroad tunnel that was initiated in 1853 but has remained incomplete since the onset of the Civil War.
Initially envisioned as a massive tunnel stretching over 5,000 feet to connect Charleston and Saluda, only about 1,500 feet were actually finished. Today, this incomplete tunnel serves as the centerpiece of Tunnel Park, bringing delight to both children and curious adults.
Exploring the scenic backroads of South Carolina is an exciting experience, and SC-11, known as the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway, offers a perfect launchpad for numerous adventures throughout the Palmetto State.
Fill up your gas tank and set off on an unforgettable journey!