Cruising the Carolinas

Loop Length: 117 miles
Estimated Time: 150 minutes
Difficulty: 2/5
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Planning a day trip along this road is fairly simple. You can travel out and back by traveling from one end to the other, or you can travel in a loop by taking Interstate 85 from either end to create a circuit.
Trip 6 - Cherokee Foothills - Tips
- Be sure to follow all traffic patterns, speed limits, and helmet laws.
- There are quite a few attractions to see along this route going from east to west:
- The Peachoid " The worlds largest peach and one of Gaffneys most famous landmarks. This peach-shaped water tower holds 1 million gallons of water and stands as a monument to The Palmetto States peach industry (which contrary to popular belief is larger than that of its neighbor Georgia). The Peachoid is located off Peachoid Road which runs parallel to I-85 and just off SC-11.
- Cowpens National Battlefield " Site of a decisive American victory in the Revolutionary War fought in 1781. The site is operated by the National Park Service and offers visitors walking trails, picnic areas and exhibits. Free admission.
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- Strawberry Hill, USA " The Cooley family has sold their locally-grown peaches, strawberries, and blackberries at their Old Shed location for over 60 years. A popular stop along SC-11 for locals and travelers alike. A visit makes for a nice afternoon treat.
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- Caesars Head State Park " Giant rock outcropping which overlooks the South Carolina Upstate. Located a few miles north of SC-11 off US-276
- Pumpkintown Opry " Located at the intersection of SC-11 and SC-8 sits this unique landmark off the highway where you can get a wide array of gifts, food and ice cream. Every Saturday night at 7pm they put on The Old Time Dinner Show, which features live music, comedy, dance, and other entertainment. Tickets to the dinner show is $25.
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- Aunt Sues Country Corner " A collection of small stores located at the foot of Table Rock which has been a part of the area for decades. Food, crafts, and even gems are available for the travelers looking to take home locally-made gifts.
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- Table Rock State Park " A 3,083-acre state park located in Pickens County, home to many hiking trails, recreation area, lake, and Table Rock Mountain, a giant exposed rock mountain which dominates the landscape. There is a welcome center located on the opposite side of the SC-11 situated on the shores of a lake. $2 admission.
- World of Energy " Located at the Ocoee Nuclear Power Station is Duke Energys World of Energy which features a fun and interactive way for people of all ages to learn about electricity. The exhibits not only explains what occurs at the neighboring nuclear power plant, but also what occurs at the hydroelectric power stations of both Lake Keowee and Jocassee. Admission is free.
Website
- Aside from the roadside attractions, take in the sights and sounds of the local towns across the stretch of road. Gaffney, Chesnee, and Walhalla all have plenty of things to offer the traveler looking for a break. And just off the path, the towns of Pickens, Seneca, and Landrum offer similar opportunities for those willing to seek them.
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