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 Reporter |
Summary: This moderately strenuous, out and back trail provides a unique break from the normal terrain of South Carolina. Starting from the lower trailhead, you will wind through a sandy, high grass, but well marked section that is very easy to follow. You will pass through a thick forest, where you may see many different types of animals, such as Prairie warblers, indigo buntings, red-tailed hawks, vireos, cottontail rabbits, and deer. Continuing along flat creek, you will come to a beaver pond, which is small, but full of water lilies and very colorful during the summer months. You will pass a small waterfall as you make the moderate climb to your destination, the vast opening on top of a huge standing rock called Forty Acre Rock. Though actually 14 acres, it is still a breathtaking site. During the spring, water collects in depressions and you will be treated to the sight of a variety of specialized plants such as lichens, mosses, sedum, and the endangered pool sprite. Trailhead: Upon entering Lancaster from Hwy-521 exit onto 521-Bypass heading south, exit on Hwy-903, drive app. 15 miles till you see old Flat Creek School on the left, continue straight on Hwy-601 for app. 2 miles till you cross the first bridge, turn onto the first left and look for the signs and parking lots on the left side of the road. (Lat:34.668 Lon:-80.527) Trail Guides for Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve: Hiking South Carolina Trails by Allen deHart (Globe-Pequot Press) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: DNR Heritage Trust Program (803) 734-3893 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by John Ghent, who has posted 12 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 3 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Lisa on 8/20/2009 This is Not an easy hike. And we had a hard time trying to figure out which way to go, I think the trails were not well marked and thought they could at least post a map at the trail head. I don't even know if we started at the right place. Had to back track two times ,could not tell if we were on a man made trail or animal trail . Never felt very safe. 8/20/2009 
Reviewed by Ryan S. on 7/21/2009 The hike was nice, with a bit of land variation, but we were surprised by how much trash was strewn about. Every potentially picturesque view was marred with evidence of disrespect for our environment - the beaver pond dotted with soda bottles, the immense rock like a city parking lot - I'd swear they must have handed out cans of spray paint in the parking lot and encouraged people to express themselves... The trails were pretty well marked, and traveled, with the exception of some areas behind the pond, beyond the boardwalk, that were overgrown with grasses. Interesting to see, in a shocking kind of way... 
Reviewed by LVC on 5/26/2009 Not for beginning hikers. Take heed if you are walking on wet rock. Easy to slip and fall. Wouldn't recommend that you take this hike alone. For those who are good hikers this is a beautiful place and a great challenge. 
Reviewed by Robin on 4/21/2009 Wonderful! Amazing! But so much vandalism and trash. What a shame.
Reviewed by margaret on 10/27/2008 We live just a few miles from this rock. We visted 40 acre rock for the first time and would go back as often as possible. Our dog loved it too!!
Reviewed by Martin on 7/6/2008 Nice hike, the rock is awesome!! Trail isn't clearly marked but pretty easy to figure out. The creek and waterfall are currently dry which is no surprise considering the drought. (take 903 south off of 521)
Reviewed by Sharon on 4/6/2008 We love taking this hike as a family adventure. We have entered from both entrances but I enjoy the one that goes by the beaver pond the best. It is a difficult hike at times, but I love it. The kids have a ball climbing on the huge rock formations.
Reviewed by Luraleen on 12/10/2007 This place is totally awesome ~ going back for more! Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: South Carolina Hiking, South Carolina Trails, South Carolina Hikes, Lancaster County Hiking, Lancaster County Trails, Lancaster County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||