Foothills Trail 2019

The Foothills Trail

🏞️ Terrain & Highlights

  • Elevation Gain: ~16,000 ft total
  • Highest Point: Sassafras Mountain – 3,553 ft (1,083 m) – also the highest point in South Carolina
  • Lowest Point: Jocassee Gorges area – ~1,000 ft
  • Scenic Highlights:
  • Sassafras Mountain
  • Laurel Fork Falls
  • Whitewater Falls (highest in the eastern U.S.)
  • Chattooga River
  • Lush gorges, suspension bridges, waterfalls, and wildflower-rich forests


🧍‍♂️ Hiking Stats & Experience

  • Typical Completion Time: 5–10 days
  • Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous – many stairs, steep ascents/descents, but well-maintained
  • Trail Markings: White blazes and mileage posts every mile
  • Accessibility: Multiple access points and connectors for section hiking


🏕️ Camping & Logistics

  • Camping: Numerous designated campsites and dispersed options
  • Water Sources: Plentiful along the trail – many streams and creeks
  • Resupply: Typically self-contained; no towns along the trail
  • Shuttles: Local shuttle services available at both termini and key road crossings
  • Best Seasons: Spring (wildflowers, waterfalls), Fall (cooler temps, colorful foliage)


🌲 Other Facts

  • Managed By: Foothills Trail Conservancy
  • Trail Use: Foot travel only – no bikes or motorized use
  • Great For: First long-distance backpacking trip, solitude, photography, and nature immersion