Need a break from everyday life? Hiking is a great way to unwind and reconnect with nature. South Carolina’s many trails dish up a variety of awesome experiences paired with views that are equally astounding. Most people who’ve visited Paris Mountain State Park near Greenville will undoubtedly recall the picturesque waterfall spillway visible from the road just before entering the park, but not many people realize there is another lake in this state park, or that the stairway spillway is even more beautiful than the one by the park’s entrance.
While that main spillway near the entrance drains water from the park’s scenic Lake Placid, the other waterfall pours water out of another, more hidden, lake.
Flickr/Jason A G
Want to see it for yourself? It’s located on Sulphur Springs Trail, a 3.8 mile hike from parking area 6 in the state park.
alltrails.com
Since it’s a loop trail, you can elect to travel in either direction from the parking lot; however, we suggest a clockwise approach. The first part of the hike is somewhat strenuous and goes down into ravines (and then back up!) and contains some rugged terrain.
alltrails/Jessi Weingartner
It’s much easier to take the clockwise route because that puts the hardest part of the hike at the beginning. Along the way, there are countless sights to see, including footbridges and a simple, rustic shelter perfect for catching your breath.
alltrails/Joseph Merlin
Early on, be on the lookout for the fork… a sign will keep you on the right path. You’ll also be in great shape if you just remember to follow the white blazes.
alltrails/Josh Moua
Hiking through the forest is a calming experience, no matter the season. And when the trail finally begins to level off, it means you’re approaching Mountain Lake (formerly used as a main source of water for the City of Greenville).
Google Maps/Stefan Abare
The reservoir isn’t nearly as large as Lake Placid, nor is the stair-stepping overflow waterfall.
alltrails/Mike Coe
It’s narrow and tapers down in a curved manner with channel edges laid in like stepping stones on either side of the overflow.
alltrails/Sara Eastler
And just in front of the dam is the old tower and some mechanical pipes now exposed on the trail.
alltrails/Joseph Merlin
Overall, the trail is rated strenuous due to the up and downhill climbs are the beginning (if you’re hiking clockwise). However, after you reach the lake, it’s level or downhill most of the way back to the starting point at parking area 6. For more information on Sulphur Springs Trail at Paris Mountain State Park, see this page on the South Carolina State Parks official website, or consult reviews from hikers who’ve made the trek at this link on alltrails.com.
Flickr/Jason A G
alltrails.com
alltrails/Jessi Weingartner
alltrails/Joseph Merlin
alltrails/Josh Moua
Google Maps/Stefan Abare
alltrails/Mike Coe
alltrails/Sara Eastler
Paris Mountain State Park is located at 2401 State Park Rd., Greenville, SC 29609. The park and trails are open from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily during daylight saving time. Winter hours are 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily – extended to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesdays. Admission is $5/adults, $3.25/SC seniors (age 65 & older); $3/ child age 6-15; free for children 5 and younger.
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