The best walks and hikes in Union County

The Lake Johnson Loop Trail in Croft State Park offers a serene escape into nature, winding through diverse hardwood and wildlife habitats. You'll traverse stands of pine, beech, and oak, enjoying continuous views of the 40-acre Lake Johnson, especially from the dam which provides a unique panoramic perspective. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and herons, often seen around the lake, making this an engaging and scenic outing.

This easy 4.2-mile (6.7 km) hike, with a gentle 350 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes just under two hours to complete. Parking is readily available within Croft State Park, and the trail is well-suited for families and casual walkers. Be aware that the path is also designated for equestrian use, so you might encounter horses during your visit.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Lake Johnson Loop Trail is notable for its excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including largemouth bass and bluegill in the lake. It provides a representative experience of Croft State Park's natural environment, making it a great choice for those seeking an accessible yet immersive outdoor adventure in Spartanburg County.

The Lower Rocky Ridge Trail offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience through Croft State Park. You'll wander through pleasant hardwood and mixed pine forests, enjoying rolling hill views and tranquil creek-side passages. While some sections live up to the "rocky" in its name with uneven paths and loose rock, the overall journey is gentle and rewarding, perfect for a relaxing escape into nature.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-integrated into Croft State Park's network. It's a great option for families and beginner hikers looking for an easy outing. The route is about 2.4 miles (3.9 km) long with a minimal 208 feet (63 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete. Check park hours and any potential entrance fees before you go.

This trail is notable for fully encompassing the Palmetto Trail: Croft Passage, and it connects to other routes like the Fosters Mill Loop Trail, offering flexibility for longer excursions. You can also link up with the historic Whitestone Springs Spur Trail for a glimpse into the area's past. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Spartanburg County without a strenuous commitment.

The Upper Rocky Ridge Trail Via Whitestone Springs Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through the varied landscapes of Croft State Park. You'll wander through tranquil hardwood forests and mixed pine sections, with views of rolling hills and creeks along the way. The path itself is a mix of natural dirt surfaces, occasionally rocky, leading you to the unique historical site of Whitestone Springs. This 2.1-mile (3.4 km) route, with its gentle 154 feet (47 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect way to spend about 55 minutes immersing yourself in nature and history.

Planning your visit to this trail means heading into Croft State Park, where you'll find designated parking areas. Keep in mind that this trail is shared with horseback riders, so be aware of your surroundings. While specific permits aren't usually required for day hikes in state parks, it's always a good idea to check park regulations before you go. For the best experience, consider hiking during the cooler parts of the day or year, especially if you plan to spend time exploring the historical features at Whitestone Springs.

What truly sets this trail apart is the rich history embedded at Whitestone Springs. Here, you can discover the foundations of a grand four-story hotel and evidence of a bottling business that thrived in the late 1800s. You can even sample the mineral water from the spring, connecting directly with a bygone era. This blend of natural beauty and compelling local history makes the Upper Rocky Ridge Trail Via Whitestone Springs Trail a standout easy hike in the region.

The Fairforest Creek loop from Croft State Park offers a tranquil escape into a varied landscape, winding through mixed pine and hardwood forests before descending to the creek itself. Here, you'll discover rocky shoals that evoke a mountain-like feel, alongside sandy deposits and rich soils characteristic of a floodplain. This easy 4.1-mile (6.5 km) hiking route, with its gentle 202 feet (62 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect choice for a relaxing outing, taking about 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to this popular route is straightforward; the trailhead is easily accessible within Croft State Park. While the park is generally open year-round, it's always wise to check for any specific operating hours or entrance fees before you go. The trail is well-suited for families and beginners, making it an ideal spot for a morning or afternoon hike, especially during the pleasant spring and autumn months.

What makes this loop particularly engaging is its blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Beyond the scenic views of Fairforest Creek, you can spot old farming terraces and the remnants of an ancient mill site, offering a tangible connection to the area's past. The presence of diverse wildlife, from birds to deer, further enhances the experience, making it a rewarding hike for those seeking both nature and a touch of history.

The Fairforest Creek loop from South Side Park Lot offers a delightful journey through diverse terrain, making it a great choice for a moderate outing. You'll descend into a rich floodplain environment, where the trail winds past impressive large trees and sandy deposits, often following the scenic Fairforest Creek with its rocky shoals. Later, the path climbs into rolling hills dotted with mixed pine and hardwood forests, providing a varied and engaging landscape throughout your hike.

This 5.8-mile (9.4 km) loop is rated moderate, with a manageable 269 feet (82 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes about 2 hours and 28 minutes to complete. Parking is available at the South Side Park Lot, which is your starting point, but remember that Croft State Park may have fees or permit requirements. It's a family-friendly and dog-friendly trail, so bring the whole crew, but keep your canine companions leashed.

Beyond the natural beauty, this trail offers a unique glimpse into the region's past, featuring historical farming terraces built long ago to manage water for crops. These subtle reminders of human history blend seamlessly with the natural characteristics of the floodplain, creating a distinctive experience. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like various bird species, small mammals, or turtles, especially along the creek banks.