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Summary: Starts with a casual old logging road, then some inclines, but nothing like the incline on the way back. It starts to get narrower further down the trail as you get deeper into the cove. You can begin to hear rushing water of the creek to your left. Some parts of the trail are pretty narrow and border 50 - 100 foot dropoffs. I personally would not recommend trying this trail after or near a rain, especially if carrying a backpack due to this. The leaves on the trail when I went made me cautious enough. Near the end, the last 0.5 miles is pretty steep decline. Finally, you come to an opening by the creek and a sign for Primitive Camping. The camping spots are awesome, with some right by the creek. Past the camp, the trail is poorly maintained , but with a little effort, you can get through. It is worth it to see the flume/sluice (whatever it is) and how it has, over centuries, carved it's way through the rocks to form a small tunnel. Trailhead: From Pickens, SC, Drive North (though HWY is US178 West) on US 178. In approx. 7.5 miles, you will come to a 4 way stop at Hwy 11 (Foothills Scenic Hwy). Continue straight on US 178 for approx 7.5 miles again, to the bridge over Eastatoe Creek (about 1 mile from the town of Rocky Bottom). Cross bridge and turn left at the Laurel Valley Lodge Sign. Take the right fork (Horsepasture Road-gravel road) immediately to the Foothills Trail parking area on the left. Hike from here up the road further (little more than 0.1 miles) and turn left onto an old logging road marked by a steel post gate. There will be a sign there also pointing out the Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve direction. (Lat:35.046 Lon:-82.83) Trail Guides for Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve: Hiking South Carolina by John Clark & John Dantzler (Falcon) www.sctrails.net by SC State Trails Program () Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: Heritage Trust Program, 803-734-3893 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Brian Bain, who has posted 6 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 2 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Brian on 8/9/2004 Went backpacking there recently and trail pretty dangerous in spots... one spot has tree blocking trail and difficult to get around w/backpack. Be careful, but still highly recommend due to camping at end and beautiful plants, creek and waterfall. 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, Pickens County Hiking, Pickens County Trails, Pickens County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||