The 373 acre Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve is a very unique and interesting place. The climate in this large gorge is more "rain forest" than typical upstate mountain. This is proven true in the unique flora and fauna that grow in this area. There are 3 types of fern that grow here that are very rare; some that are found nowhere else in North America.

The hike into the Preserve is not too difficult. The trail starts out as a leisurely walk out an old logging road. The road is easy to follow and relatively easy to walk. The last .5 miles are a little steep down, and you will spend that time imagining the pain of the climb back out. If the trail is wet, and I imagine it often is, you should take your time and be careful of your steps. Often the trail drops off to your side as much as 50 feet, so the last thing you want to do is loose your balance. This hike is easy enough that you could do it out and back as a day hike.

Once you arrive at the primitive campsite, which is at the end of the 2 mile hike down, the secret beauty of the Preserve is quickly evident. There are many (maybe 10-15) primitive camp sites, all with stone fire rings and flat tent sites. The Eastatoe creek flows 20-50 feet from all of the tent sites and is plenty deep enough for a cool down swim after your hike. (maybe COLD down is a better description!)

The cold and pristine water of this creek is so unique in South Carolina, that native rainbow trout grow in abundance. In a small pool by our 1st campsite (10' wide by 15' long and 3' deep) I saw as many as 30 rainbow trout, up to 6" in length. From what I've read, if you go farther downstream, the water gets deeper and the fish get bigger. If you have aspirations of catching the fish, you must 1st brave the hike with a rod, as well as read up on the fishing regulations of the state.

All in all, this is one of our favorite hikes. For some reason, it seems to be a relatively unused trail. That's fine with us... the more for us to enjoy!

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