South Carolinians are right at home in fantastic restaurants. There are so many great eateries it's sometimes hard to decide where to go. Well, you can go ahead and gas up the car because once you read about this destination restaurant you'll be making plans to spend the day here. This is one secluded restaurant in South Carolina that has the most magical surroundings. See for yourself.
Pumpkintown Mountain is a hidden secret to those who don't regularly travel the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway.
Located in Pickens, this illustrious mecca looks like it's straight out of a gold mining town in the old west. It's actually been open for (only) 35 years and you'll be happy to learn it offers more than just lunch.
Don't get us wrong, the food here is exceptional!
Pumpkintown Mountain has a restaurant, a general store with gifts and gift items including t-shirts and preserves. Perhaps their crown jewel though, is the ice cream that people talk about from hundreds of miles away.
So bring your appetite and be ready to dig in once you arrive.
Don't worry about the calories. Afterward you can head just five miles up the very scenic highway to Table Rock State Park.
You'll know you're almost there when you see this amazing view from your car.
This state park has two gorgeous lakes to gawk at.
And plenty of hiking trails for all skill levels. Feeling especially adventurous and full of stamina? Head up the 3.5 mile trail to the top of the mountain! Or you can take the Carrick Creek Trail, shown here, and meander along the creek bed.
Another enchanting place to explore while you're visiting Pumpkintown Mountain is the Doodle Trail. This eight mile rails-to-trails outdoor adventure connects Pickens to Easley. The best part? It's free and open seven days a week from dawn til dusk.
An absolute must-visit spot in this neck of the woods is "Jumping Off Rock." You'll score a breathtaking view of Lake Jocassee from the overlook!
From a destination restaurant with much more than food, to a converted railroad line and a stunning view from high above the state's only canyon lake, a trip to this remote restaurant in South Carolina really is a magical experience.
Have you visited Pumpkintown Mountain in Pickens, SC or any of these magical places nearby? We'd love to hear about your experiences!
Where to find the places listed in this article:
Pumpkintown Mountain - 3414 SC-11, Pickens, SC, 29671
Table Rock State Park - 158 East Ellison Lane, Pickens, SC, 29671
Doodle Trail - Here's the Pickens trailhead parking Google Map link
Jumping Off Rock Overlook - 440-, 448 Horse Pasture Road, Sunset, SC, 29685
If you love exploring new places in the Palmetto State, then you'll love the One Place In South Carolina That Must Be Seen To Be Believed.
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