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 Reporter |
Summary: The section of the trail from Laurel Fork Creek to the Whitewater River is often referred to as the Gorges Section and was initially built and maintained by Duke Power Company as part of a licensing agreement for the construction of Lake Joccasee. Both State and Federal agencies have taken over management responsibilities in recent years, and this section of South Carolina has some of the best backcountry wilderness in the Southeast with numerous waterfalls, suspension bridges, and streams. Trailhead: PARKING (Laurel Valley Parking Area) - From the intersection of US 178 and SC 11, drive north on US 178 to the bridge over Eastatoe Creek (approximately one mile past the community of Rocky Bottom). Cross the bridge and turn left at the Laurel Valley Lodge sign. Immediately bear right onto the unpaved fork and continue to the Foothills Trail parking area about 0.3 mile on the left.(Upper Whitewater Falls Parking Area) - From the South near Salem, SC on SC 11, turn north onto SC Highway 130 (which is also called Whitewater Road) and travel about ten miles. Cross the NC/SC state line into North Carolina and continue for about a mile to the Whitewater Falls parking area which is marked with a large U.S. Forest Service sign. Turn right into the parking area and pay your nominal parking fee. If you are approaching this parking area from the North, it is 8.5 miles south of the junction of US 64 and NC 281 in Sapphire, North Carolina. (Lat:35.03 Lon:-82.52) Trail Guides for Foothills Trail - A4 to A8: Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Nantahala National Forest - (828) 526-3765 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by BirdShooter, who has posted 10 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by BirdShooter on 7/2/2004 For a five page trip report on this hike, follow this link: http://www.n2backpacking.com/destinations/south_carolina/foothills/foothills%204_01D.htm Note: The true elevation gain on this hike is 10,130 feet and not 6000 feet as indicated. 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, Oconee County Hiking, Oconee County Trails, Oconee County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||