Pickens

Located near the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway and Table Rock State Park, Pickens is a popular destination for visitors looking for easy access to the area’s many natural attractions.

Set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this small Upstate city has long claimed the motto “Where the Mountains Begin.”

With miles of trails and the new off-road Town Creek Bike Park, Pickens offers a variety of recreational offerings.

Stay in Pickens and Play in the Mountains

Pickens offers an amazing array of trails, waterfalls, historic sites and natural wonders.

Lodging in Pickens

From historic cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps to a modern golf resort with mountain views, Pickens’ accommodations offer spectacular views.

Dining in Pickens

When you want to know where to eat, just follow the locals. These dining spots may not be fancy, but the eating is pure small-town goodness.

Shopping in Pickens

With its many antique stores and mom-and-pop shops you’re sure to find a more than a few treasures in Pickens.

Arts and Museums in Pickens

With its Appalachian craft traditions, historic home and history museums, and bluegrass concerts, Pickens offers visitors a delicious taste of mountain culture.

Recreation in Pickens

Perched at the edge of the Jocassee Gorges, Pickens offers easy access to the pristine Laurel Fork Heritage Preserve and three stunning waterfalls.

Hidden Gems in Pickens

From centuries-old petroglyphs to a small-batch tea farm, Pickens’ lesser-known attractions are itinerary-worthy attractions.

South Carolina Petroglyph Site

These ancient examples of human expression, known as petroglyphs, can be found in the Upstate along the rugged Blue Ridge Escarpment.

Doodle Trail

This paved, multi-use pathway winds through 7.5 miles of the South Carolina foothills.

Aunt’s Sue’s Country Corner

This friendly village center features a restaurant, ice cream parlor and unique assortment of shops.

Table Rock Tea Company

This small-batch tea company uses traditional and modern methods to create its complex teas.

Hagood Mill

This historic site is home to the state's oldest operational wooden, water-powered gristmill, which still grinds grain into flour just as it did more than 170 years ago.

Table Rock State Park

Table Rock State Park offers visitors 10 miles of trails, but it’s the challenging 3.4-mile hike to the summit that offers some of the most spectacular views.

Table Rock Cabins

Table Rock State Park’s fully furnished cabins provide cozy accommodations for a mountain getaway.

City of Pickens

Named in honor of Revolutionary War hero Andrew Pickens, the town is convenient to numerous waterfalls and natural attractions of the Upstate.

The Upcountry

Explore the beautiful foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Crystal-clear lakes, pristine waterfalls and gorgeous mountain vistas make the Upcountry a destination all its own. You’ll find a wealth of outdoor activities, museums, art galleries and more in this enchanting region.

International Travel

Get Your Free 2025 Vacation Guide