Situated along the border of North Carolina and South Carolina, the Saluda Mountains are part of the Southern Appalachians and are home to a variety of state parks, rivers, and activities. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with nature, these activities will help you relax, unwind, and center yourself.
1. Pearson’s Falls and Glen
Saluda NC hotels are just minutes from the beauty that you’ll find at Pearson’s Falls and Glen. Open daily, the falls are nestled in the foothills of the mountains. Spend the afternoon exploring a 268-acre botanical preserve that houses spring-fed streams, granite, and a gorgeous forest. If you’re up for a short walk, a moderate quarter-mile trail leads to the waterfall. Rising 90 feet into the air, the falls and the surrounding forests are home to more than 200 species of rare plants and wildflowers. Whether you simply want to breathe in the fresh air or get excellent photos for Instagram, you’ll find it at Pearson’s Falls and Glen.
2. The Town of Saluda
You can’t stay near Saluda without visiting the quaint little town itself. The epitome of southern hospitality, the tiny town is home to only 700 people. What it lacks in people, it makes up in beauty, history, and entertainment. The town’s Main Street looks like it’s straight out of a storybook and is home to a range of galleries, shops, and longtime restaurants. Founded in 1878, most of the town’s buildings are part of the National Register of Historic Places. Be sure to check out Pace’s General Store for an authentic old-fashioned hardware and general store experience, and if you’re in town during the month of May, stop in to visit the Saluda Arts Festival.
3. Table Rock State Park
Spanning more than 3,000 acres, Table Rock State Park sits near the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is home to the tallest mountain in the state, Pinnacle Mountain. Two large lakes provide a gorgeous backdrop for an afternoon picnic and allow for swimming when the weather is warm. If you’d prefer an early morning hike, two different trails lead you to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain, Mill Creek Falls, and Table Rock Summit. Stop and rest while the kids run off some extra energy at the playground, stop into the educational nature center to learn more about the plants and animals that call the area home, or book an event at the Civilian Conservation Corps.
4. Carl Sandburg’s Home
Registered as a National Historic Site, Carl Sandburg’s Home gives you a glimpse into the life of the famous writer and poet. Part of Connemara Farms, Sandburg spent the final 22 years of his life in the home and from it published more than a third of his writing. He and his wife moved to the 30-acre farm in 1945, spending their time raising dairy goats. Today, visitors can visit the goat farm, picnic in pastures, or stroll beside one of the farm’s two lakes. An apple orchard, vegetable gardens, and flower gardens also dot the property. Inside, you’ll find a tour of the home and may even catch a live performance of one of his pieces.
From beautiful mountain peaks and towering waterfalls to peaceful pastures and goat farms, there is something for every nature lover near the Saluda Mountains. Book your trip today.