Discover Bald Rock

If you're driving to Caesars Head State Park, you might notice cars parked in a small pull-off on the east side of U.S. 276 about 5 miles from the park headquarters. The big attraction here is Bald Rock, a natural scenic overlook offering a stunning view of the surrounding mountains.

A wooden footbridge near the parking area leads to a huge rock outcropping the size of a football field. The summit is so large, you can enjoy the panorama without feeling the slightest bit apprehensive, even if you have a fear of heights.

Part of the Bald Rock Heritage Preserve, the outcropping overlooks the foothills of Pickens and Greenville counties and South Carolina's signature natural attraction - the mammoth granite dome known as Table Rock.

It's easy to miss this primo photo op since there are no signs posted on the winding mountain road alerting drivers to the overlook. As eager as you might be to get to Caesars Head, take a few minutes and check it out. You won't be disappointed.

Managed by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, the preserve lies within the Mountain Bridge Wilderness area and spans 165 acres. The rock outcropping is surrounded by a forest of pines and hardwoods. Lichens and mosses have colonized portions of the rock, creating pockets and cracks in the granite.

Unfortunately, the rock also features graffiti, most of it of the "Jack loves Judy" variety. But you won't find much in the way of litter thanks to a beautification project initiated by the DNR, the state's Department of Transportation and volunteers.

Find a spot on the rock, sit back and enjoy your own "king of the world" moment.