It’s that time of the year again! Leaves are showing off their colorful changes, a cool breeze flows through the countryside, and the smell of hot apple pie and bonfires fill the air. It’s fall in Lake Hartwell Country.
Autumn is the perfect time to hike. The weather is not smoldering hot, mosquitos have gone, and the trails are more beautiful than ever. A perfect way to experience a fall hike is by going to Table Rock State Park. It’s the best place to grab some friends, pack a lunch and explore all the beauty autumn has to offer. Once you drive into the state park, you will be greeted by a serene lake, surrounded by tall trees and picnic tables. To the left, you will find tent campsites and RV parking, and cabin lodging located up the mountain. If you plan on camping, make sure to call ahead of time to reserve your spot, because they do fill up quickly this time of year.
To start off on your hike, you will pass the kiosk or nature center and make your way up the trailhead. If you have questions or need a guided map to assist you, make sure you stop at either of these locations before heading out. There are a total of 6 trails at Table Rock, with the most strenuous being Pinnacle Mountain Trail, which leads you to Mill Creek Falls and Bald Knob Overlook. It’s a steep ascension, but the reward is greater. If hiking is not your thing, but you still want to get a glimpse of Table Rock and fall foliage, just drive up the mountain to the pull-off overlook and make sure to bring your camera. The view is spectacular.
Another fall favorite that you can’t pass up is a festival! Lake Hartwell Country is lucky to have so many quaint towns that love to celebrate the season and support local farmers. One of the most well-known festivals, however, is at Denver Downs Farm. For the sixth year in a row, they have been nominated by USA today as one of the best corn mazes in America. You can vote for them here: https://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-corn-maze-2022/
While we love corn mazes, scarecrows and jumping into leaf piles, there’s one thing that ties everything together, and that’s food and beer. If you aren’t sitting around the fire in your best flannel drinking a cold pumpkin ale, then do you even “fall”? There are so many awesome breweries in Lake Hartwell Country, and you can choose one right from our website. Jocassee Valley Brewing is one of those special places we love. Bring your closest buds and grab a seasonal brew. Sit outside by the firepit, underneath strings of café lights as a local band serenades the night and good food and conversation is enjoyed all around.
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