Blooming Dogwood Trees and Azaleas signal that Spring has officially arrived in South Carolina’s Upcountry. In Summer, explore the numerous lakes, rivers, forests, and parks. Fall brings a display of brilliant foliage as you travel along the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway. In the Winter months, relax in a cozy mountain cabin and a hike to discover spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Further exploration of the Upcountry will allow you to learn about the rich history of the area. From the Native American Cherokee to the battlegrounds where American forces defeated the British during the American Revolution, to stone and covered bridges that will take you back a few centuries, traversing the backroads of the Upcountry will allow you to connect to the historic, cultural, and natural sites and points of interest in the area.
Be sure to allow time to explore the many waterfalls in the Upcountry, some of which can be easily reached, while others may require a bit of effort. For a more relaxing experience, take a boat ride on one of the freshwater mountain lakes or pack a picnic and spend the day in a state park.
Take the opportunity to stroll through the small towns throughout the Upcountry. Here are a few helpful hints and “don’t miss” attractions and activities for those unfamiliar with the area. Don’t miss the best fried chicken in the state at a place called, “The Walhalla Steak House Cafeteria.” Also, steak isn’t on the menu there! Don’t forget to bring a flashlight when visiting the Stumphouse Tunnel, an unfinished railroad project carved through the granite mountain for about one-quarter of a mile before abruptly ending. Hunt for “Mice on Main” in Greenville, the bronze creatures that can be found by following the hints on the website (miceonmain.com). For the thrill-seekers in your group, book a driving experience at the BMW Performance Center in Greer.
A few more ideas for you: Tee off at one of over thirty manicured golf courses found here. Take an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip on the National Wild & Scenic River. Listen (or join in) with the locals at one of the regular “Bluegrass Jams.” Go fish for trophy Trout on Lake Jocassee or one of the mountain streams. Or play with the “kids” at Split Creek Farm in Anderson, where a herd of 400 goats resides.
Whatever you like to do when taking a break from the everyday grind, the Upcountry probably has something for your taste!
Upcountry South Carolina
864-233-2690
www.upcountrysc.com
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