Whether you're looking for an easy walk across the parking lot or something a little more daring and adventurous, one of these four day hikes are sure to help you beat the heat this Summer.
This article was originally published in the Summer 2022 issue of Bear Necessity. Since discontinuing the online magazine, I've decided to share some my favorite content from it with those of you who follow my blog.
Blue Hole Falls
What's more refreshing than taking a dip in a swimming hole? This secluded spot in Oconee County is one of our favorites. The hike begins on a small forest road (FS 2658). After about 0.30 mile take a right at the intersection. From here, blue blazes mark the way. Continue for another 0.20 mile. A path to the left takes you to the creek. You can stop here at Cedar Creek Falls (upstream) if you like. To continue to the swimming hole, carefully cross the creek and follow a very steep path to the right of Blue Hole Falls. The way down can be slick, so adventure at your own risk.
Route Type: Out & back
Distance: 1.2 miles (total)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Blaze: Blue
Location: Sumter National Forest, SC
Fees & Parking: Parking at the trailhead on Rich Mountain Rd is free, but limited. Be sure not to block the road when parking at the entrance of FS 2658.
Additional Info: Many other hikers have recommended bringing a rope for the decent to the swimming hole. After hiking to Blue Hole Falls twice myself, I agree this would be a handy thing to bring along. It should also be noted, it's not best to proceed down to the pool if it has recently rained. You can find additional info about the hike from HD Carolina or AllTrails.
Raven Cliff Falls
The hike to this waterfall offers ample opportunity to wade in cool refreshing water, starting by crossing Dodd Creek less than 0.25 mile in. The trail follows the creek the rest of the way, so there are plenty more chances to get your feet wet if you choose. Along the way, you'll be treated to views of several other waterfalls ranging in size. The trail becomes much steeper in the last 0.30 mile as you approach Raven Cliff Falls. You may be tempted to turn back after seeing the lower part of the falls, but the real view is further up!
Route Type: Out & back
Distance: 5 miles (total)
Difficulty: Easy
Blaze: None
Location: Chattahoochee-Oconee Nat. Forest, GA
Fees & Parking: $5 amenity fee. Display the proof of payment tag in your car after filling out an envelope at the kiosk.
Additional Info: Turn this into an overnight trip by filling out the camping info on the payment envelope. Read about this recreation area HERE.
Sliding Rock / Gorge Floor
This "Sliding Rock" is not the same as the ever popular one in Pisgah National Forest. This natural waterslide can be found in Tallulah Gorge State Park. Unlike the often over crowded spot in Pisgah, this location is a bit more exclusive. This is due to the permit required to hike it. From the Interpretive Center, take North Rim trail to Hurricane Falls trail. Shortly after descending the stairs and crossing the suspension bridge you'll reach a gate. Permit holders only passed this point! Cross the Tallulah River, then scramble your way along the Gorge Floor trail until you reach your destination at Bridal Veil Falls. Swim, slide, or sit and enjoy the scenery. To make your way back, cross Bridal Veil Falls and locate Sliding Rock trail. Scramble back up to South Rim trail, cross the Tallulah Dam, and you're back on the North Rim again!
Route Type: Loop
Distance: 3 miles (total)
Difficulty: Very strenuous
Blaze: None on gorge floor
Location: Tallulah Gorge State Park, GA
Fees & Parking: $5 parking fee
Additional Info: Permits are obtained at the Interpretive Center. Check out this map with trail descriptions from the State Park. You can read more about the hike from Outdoor Project.
Quick Tip!
Only 100 permits are issued to hike the gorge floor per day. Reserving a site and camping at the park the night before may help you get there before crowds of other visitors pour in.
Stumphouse Tunnel
Maybe water related activities aren’t your thing. No problem! Instead, take shelter from the Summer sun inside this Civil War era mountain tunnel. The walk to it is a short distance from the parking area. You can go nearly 0.25 mile inside the abandoned railroad prospect. Stumphouse Tunnel consistently stays a refreshing 50 degrees year-round. It gets pretty dark, almost pitch black, towards the back so don't forget to bring a headlamp or flashlight. If you're lucky you might see some crawfish or salamanders scurrying around the pools of the tunnel floor.
Route Type: Out & back
Distance: 0.50 mile (total)
Difficulty: Easy
Blaze: None
Location: Sumter National Forest, SC
Fees & Parking: $5 per vehicle entrance fee.
Additional Info: This destination is a two for one. Further
down the trail is a viewing platform for Issaqueena Falls.
The hike to the falls is a little less than 0.50 mile.
Read more about what's at Stumphouse Park HERE
Legend & Lore
The nearby falls are named after the legend of Issaqueena, a Native American woman who fell in love with a white settler. Upon hearing that her tribe was planning an attack on his settlement, she rode off to warn them. Her tribe set out to kill her after learning of the treason. They pursued her to the falls where, thinking fast, Issaqueena faked her own death by pretending to dive off the top. They ended the pursuit assuming she died. However, she was really hiding in the ledges below. Unlike the very similar legend of Jocassee this one has a happy ending.
Thanks for stopping by! I hope you enjoyed this post. What are some of your favorite day hikes to beat the Summer heat? Be sure to let me know in the comments.