The Best South Carolina Road Trip Along the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway

Road trips are a staple of summer. A South Carolina road trip should be on your warm-weather itinerary. This route, estimated at 110 to 130 miles long, through Piedmont and Upcountry, is so beautiful that it is easily one of the best road trips in America. This scenic drive in South Carolina, known as the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway, is filled with historic spots, delicious eats, and epic views.

Why the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway Is Worth the Drive

What makes the drive so interesting is all the different things you'll see along the way. You'll drive through mountains, historic sites, rolling hills, and a whole lot more. Visiting in spring and early June is great for catching the wildflowers blooming outside your windows. Of course, visiting in mid-to-late October is another great choice because of the stunning fall foliage.

Road Trip Route Overview and Planning Tips

The route goes from Gaffney to Fair Play, or reverse! There is some debate on the length of the route, but as stated earlier, most folks say it's between 110 and 130 miles, depending on your exact starting and ending points. However, the National Scenic Byway Association lists the trip as 112 miles.

Stop One: The Peachoid in Gaffney

Shaped like a giant peach in honor of South Carolina's peach country, this one-million-gallon water tower looms over the terrain and is one of the largest and most recognized man-made landmarks in the state. It is 135 feet tall and sits on Interstate 85 between exits 90 and 92. It was built in 1981 and has remained an iconic roadside attraction for decades.

Stop Two: Cowpens National Battlefield

Cowpens National Battlefield is managed by the National Park Service and encompasses more than 840 acres of land. The preserved area remembers Daniel Morgan's 1781 victory over the British during a major battle of the American Revolution. Wander, enjoy, and learn, and before you leave, stop into the visitors center and museum for even more about this spot. Most folks spend between one and two hours exploring the battlefield. There are even a few picnic areas

Stop Three: Campbell's Covered Bridge

No scenic trip through the Upcountry would be complete without visiting South Carolina's two prized historic bridges; the first of which is Campbell's Covered Bridge. Now part of a county park, this bridge will transport you to a time long before many of us were here; a time when our ancestors would have been so happy to have this newly placed creek crossing, so they wouldn't have to travel approximately 30 miles out of their way to get from one side to the other of this little creek. It's a great "Instagram moment" for a photo.

Stop Four: Historic Bridge and Scenic Stops Nearby

The other historic bridge is found only a 15-minute drive from the first. Poinsett Bridge is perhaps the oldest remaining stone bridge in the entire southeast. It's preserved in a Greenville County Park and contains an about 15-foot-tall gothic arch opening for the small creek below to pass through. It feels a bit like stepping back into medieval times.

Stop Five: Aunt Sue’s Country Corner

All of this driving and sightseeing is sure to work up an appetite. Stop at Aunt Sue's Country Corner to see what all of the hullabaloo is about here. Don't expect white tablecloths and luxury. This place is down-home to the very core, and folks love it - and the food. Aunt Sue's is known for its comfort food, particularly its fried chicken and homemade chips. Of course, don't forget to top your meal off with a sweet treat from the ice cream parlor.

Stop Six: Long Shoals Wayside Park

Next, we'll make a short stop at Long Shoals Wayside Park. Take the short hike down to the creek to discover a natural water slide you'll want to return to again and again on a day when you can stay longer and play all day long. This 10-acre park is the perfect place to stop on your drive and stretch your legs. Many anglers like to pay a visit here in hopes of catching trout. There are also a few picnic tables scattered about for you to relax on while kids play on the rocks at the edge of the water.

Tips for Making the Most of This South Carolina Road Trip

Without stops, this road trip could be accomplished from end to end and back to the starting point in Gaffney in about four hours, or two hours each way. But you're sure to want to make stops along the way, so plan accordingly. After all, this is one of the best road trips in South Carolina. Be sure to check out our ultimate road trip packing essentials before you go! This road trip is truly great at any time of year. However, mid-October to mid-November is our favorite time for catching all the changing leaves.

Final Thoughts: Why This Is One of America’s Best Road Trips

It's safe to say that this is clearly one of the best road trips in South Carolina. Between historic covered bridges, yummu comfort food, natural waterslides, and so much more, you won't want to miss this scenic South Carolina road trip.