Yellow Branch Picnic Area and Nature Trail
Nestled in a mixed pine/hardwood stand, this picnic area is beautiful any time of year. Picnic tables are scattered about the upper and lower loops. A Civilian Conservation Corps stone and wood shelter and a restroom are accessible by wheelchair from the lower loop parking lot. Yellow Branch creek is located across from the picnic area and is easily reached by a short loop hiking trail.
Click here for a printable guide and vicinity map.
At a Glance
Operational Hours: | Day use only |
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Open Season: | All year |
Restrictions: | In warm weather, yellow jackets frequent the area, especially trash cans |
Restroom: | Pit |
General Information
Directions: From Walhalla, SC, drive about six miles north on Highway 28. The picnic area is on the left.Activities
Day Hiking
From the road at the main picnic area, begin this rolling, and occasionally steep, 0.4-mile loop. Step across a crevice where a narrow creek flows through the flat rock to a sandy path under a canopy of tulip trees, oaks, and hickories, then along a ridge knotted with rhododendron and mountain laurel. Watch your step as you descend to a rushing creek, where you will navigate stone steps and cross several rocky fords. Watch for pickerel frogs, salamanders, snakes, and other wildlife in this area. About midway, you will see a sign that marks the 1.3 mile spur to Yellow Branch Falls if you want to extend your hike. To complete the 0.4-mile loop, turn left at the end of the trail and follow the road to the parking area.Picnicking
Picnic tables and shelter available.Group Picnicking
Picnic tables, picnic shelter.