If you love history — and waterfalls — then you’ll definitely want to add a hike to Raines Mill to your bucket list in the coming year. (This historic old mill in South Carolina is under a renovation. Photos below were posted in 2020.) A short hike leads to the mill, where you’ll be astounded by the giant hemlock trees, the enormous, 40-foot metal water wheel, and the mill itself.

It's found along Falls Creek near Mountain Rest.
Google/jim catalfamo
Three large falls along Falls Creek were used to power the old grist mill, which opened around 1914.
Google/jim catalfamo
During the day, the wheel powered the mill. And at night, it generated electricity for the nearby Long Creek Academy.
It's believed that the 40-foot over shot metal wheel at Raines Mill is the largest of its kind in a three-state area of the South.
Google/jim catalfamo

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An over shot wheel is turned by gravity as water is poured into the top of the wheel in order to make it turn.
Google/jim catalfamo
At last report, the wheel was no longer operational. However, that doesn't mean the restoration of the property won't remedy that.
Access the Raines Mill trail head by turning onto Falls Creek Road from Chattooga Ridge Road in Mountain Rest. Travel approximately 0.3 miles on Falls Creek Road and look for the parking area next to the old logging road, which may be gated.
Google Maps [enhanced to add trailhead marker]
Pass through or around the gate and walk approximately 0.25-miles toward the picnic shelter above the mill. If you see a fork in the road, skip it and continue straight toward the shelter.
Google/jim catalfamo

If you’re concerned about traveling on private property, the owners are aware that folks hike to admire the mill on a regular basis. They state the fact at this link, on kickstarter, where they are seeking donations to help in funding the restoration. Their concern for the public’s safety is among the many reasons they are restoring the building. Feel free to make a donation, and be sure to see the many incentives (including overnight camping bonuses they offer for certain donation levels) offered to those who give.

Have you hiked to Raines Mill? What a find, right?!!

Looking for more history hiding in the forests of South Carolina? Hike to the abandoned ruins of a once thriving resort on this trail found in one of South Carolina’s state parks!

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