The best running trails in Pickens County

Pickens County offers a diverse selection of over 30 running routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from challenging mountain ascents to gentle lakeside paths and paved rail trails.

Yes, Pickens County has several easy running routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a less strenuous jog. The Lakeside Trail in Table Rock State Park is a great option, offering a relatively flat 2-mile (3.2 km) path with scenic views. The Doodle Trail, a paved rails-to-trails path, also provides an accessible and mostly flat experience.

The terrain in Pickens County is quite varied, reflecting its position in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills. You can expect challenging mountain trails with significant elevation gain, such as the Table Rock Trail, as well as moderate paths through forests and along lake shores. Paved, multi-use trails like the Doodle Trail offer a smoother, flatter experience.

Absolutely! Pickens County is home to several beautiful waterfalls. For a run that includes a waterfall, consider the Foothills Trail to Virginia Hawkins Falls. You can also explore areas like the Jocassee Gorges Wilderness, which features Twin Falls (Eastatoe Falls), or Laurel Fork Falls, though specific running routes directly to all waterfalls may vary in accessibility. The Green Creek Waterfalls are another notable highlight.

For family-friendly running, the Doodle Trail is an excellent choice. Its paved, mostly flat surface is safe and enjoyable for all ages. The Lakeside Trail in Table Rock State Park also offers an easier, scenic option for families.

Many trails in Pickens County are dog-friendly, especially those in state parks like Table Rock and Keowee-Toxaway, provided dogs are kept on a leash. The Doodle Trail is also a popular spot for runners with their canine companions. Always check specific park regulations before heading out.

Running in Pickens County offers access to stunning natural landmarks. You can experience the panoramic views from Sassafras Mountain, the highest point in South Carolina, via routes like the Foothills Trail to Sassafras Mountain. Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee provide beautiful lakeside scenery, with trails like the Raven Rock Trail offering lake views. The Lake Issaqueena Shore Trail is another highlight.

Yes, there are several excellent loop options for runners. The Pinnacle Mountain Loop Trail offers a challenging circular run with rewarding summit views. For a moderate option, consider the Issaqueena Lake, Collarbone Trail and Dam Road Loop, which provides lake views within the Clemson Experimental Forest. The Wildcat Falls Loop is another moderate choice.

The running routes in Pickens County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from challenging mountain trails to serene lakeside paths, and the accessibility of routes like the Doodle Trail. The natural beauty and variety of experiences are frequently highlighted.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant running conditions in Pickens County, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, especially in the lower elevations, while winters are typically mild but can have occasional cold snaps. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, both Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee offer scenic running opportunities. Keowee-Toxaway State Park, situated on Lake Keowee, features trails like the Raven Rock Trail with beautiful lake views. While specific dedicated running trails directly along Lake Jocassee's immediate shoreline might be limited due to its rugged nature, the surrounding Jocassee Gorges Wilderness Area provides a more immersive, wild running experience.

For longer runs, the Doodle Trail is an excellent option, stretching over 15 miles (24.4 km) between Easley and Pickens. Additionally, sections of the Foothills Trail, such as the Foothills Trail to Sassafras Mountain, offer significant distances and elevation for endurance runners.