The Easy 1-Mile Winter Hike In South Carolina That’s Positively Bewitching

Winter in South Carolina can bring a variety of weather conditions. From mild or unseasonably warm days, to the other end of the spectrum and blistering cold temps. But the Palmetto State is still an amazing place to get outside during winter and become one with nature.

Fortunately there are limitless options for how, when and where to go about "being one with nature" in our beautiful state. In December we published a list of easy South Carolina hikes. You can check those out here. And for a quick and easy one-mile hike in the upstate, take a look at this incredible spot:

You'll find this short, yet stunning hike at Paris Mountain State Park just outside Greenville.

Everything about this experience is beautiful, including just getting to the state park. Look at this view above!

At just over 1,500 acres, Paris Mountain State Park is one of the smaller, more intimate state parks in the park system. It's conveniently located only five miles north of Greenville.

Here, you'll find not one, but two short hikes: North Lake Loop and Lake Placid Loop.

North Lake Loop is a short 1.2 miles and is located at the back of the park. (The lake shown in the photo above is a third lake, Mountain Lake.)

At the front of the park is the shorter .75 mile loop around Lake Placid.

The Lake Placid Loop is rated easy and dishes up some nice eye candy, like this cut stone spillway and the walkway at the bottom with a wooden bridge crossing the runoff. If you love the sound of flowing water, this will be your favorite spot!

Paris Mountain is a perfect spot for a short winter excursion to take in some sunshine and fresh, crisp winter air.

The park is home to nine trails. A park and trail map can be found here.

Perfect in all seasons, this spot is a favorite for hiking, biking, boating (canoes and kayaks), swimming and fishing.

You'll even find it open and equally stunning during the occasional snow seen in the Upstate.

Access this short 1-mile hike at Paris Mountain State Park at 2401 State Park Road,| Greenville, SC 29609. Most places in the park are pet-friendly provided you use a leash. For hours, entrance fees and additional pet rules, see this link.

Have you hiked at Paris Mountain State Park? We'd love to know in our comments!

Want something more challenging? Here's The Unrivaled Canyon Hike Everyone In South Carolina Should Take At Least Once.