This Is the Quietest Part of This South Carolina State Park

Table Rock State Park is one of the crown jewels of South Carolina's Upcountry, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Its namesake attraction is Table Rock, a mountain belonging to the Cumberland Plateau range that measures 3,127 feet above sea level. Climbing it means enjoying some of the region's most stunning views, and one of the best ways to get to the top is the Table Rock Trail, a challenging 6.8-mile trek. And while climbing Table Rock is certainly bucket-list-worthy, it's not the only way to enjoy a day at the park. If you're seeking a quieter, more secluded experience of Table Rock State Park, I'd recommend the less-frequented Pinnacle Lakeside Trail.

This 1.8-mile loop trail isn't exactly a secret; plenty of hikers enjoy this easy stroll around the lake year-round. But it's decidedly quieter when compared to some of the park's other trails. While the mountain trails require some serious elevation gain, Pinnacle Lake Trail is essentially flat, making it the perfect terrain for hikers of all ages.

To start your adventure, you'll want to park at the West Gate Road Parking Lot, which will lead you to the lakeside trail. Dogs are welcome on this hike, but they must stay on leash the whole time. Follow the purple-blazed trail through the woods and around the water, enjoying stunning views at every turn. The trail is easy to follow and well-maintained, but there are a few rocks and roots to navigate, so be sure to plan accordingly.

In addition to its beauty, the trail is also steeped in history. The Pinnacle Lake Trail was originally charted out by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s, though it wasn't completely finished until 2011. Keep your eyes out for an old stone boat landing, a historic lodge, and a dam and spillway, each of which was constructed by the CCC nearly 100 years ago.

One of the most memorable parts of the trail is when it dips below the spillway to a bridge crossing over the creek. You'll love watching the water spill over the staircase-like structure, creating the effect of a rushing waterfall.

If you plan on hiking in the summer, you'll be grateful to learn that most of the trail is shaded. Plus, several benches are located along the lake where you can stop and rest. My favorite parts of the trail are the glimpses of the lake that show Table Rock and its reflection in the water. It may not be the high-altitude view that the park is most famous for, but I'd argue that seeing the mountain from across the water is just as moving.

The trail is busiest in the late spring and summer, so the earlier you arrive, the better. Depending on your time constraints, it also makes a great add-on hike for a few others in the park. If you'd like to visit for longer than a day, you might want to look into camping. There are two campgrounds available in the park, offering traditional campsites as well as RV sites. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time.

What are some of your favorite parts about Table Rock State Park? Feel free to share this article with a fellow hiking buddy and begin planning your adventure!