If you are from the Upstate of South Carolina, then you know the city of Greenville is packed with things to do. Shopping, dining, and recreational activities are unique and full of adventure. What you may not know is outside of the bustling downtown area (a lot of us have called it G-Vegas at least once in our lives, yes I am guilty of it too!) there are even more outdoor activities for all seasons! From swimming, hiking, and horseback riding outdoor Greenville, SC has enough adventures to keep you and your family busy making memories all year long!
The Greenville Health System (GHS)
Swamp Rabbit Trail
The Swamp Rabbit Trail is a 21 mile multi-use park system that runs along the Reedy River connecting Greenville County with schools, parks, and local businesses. The trail will continue to grow every year offering fun, non-motorized recreation wherever it goes.
This trail was made possible by Greenville County Council who purchased the old rail bed between Greenville and Travelers Rest that now makes up the trail.
There have been over 500,000 thousands visitors on the trail in the last year, and increased tourism revenue by 6.7 million dollars!!
Bicycle Rentals are available throughout town to use on the trail.
Paris Mountain State Park
Paris Mountain State Park's roots date as far back as the Great Depression, when it was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. This heritage can still be seen in the preserved stone and timber outside of the renovated bathhouse, now known as the Park Center. The center features historical exhibits and a classroom that teaches visitors about the park's ecology. Paris Mountain is located in the city of Greenville, and although it was once a rural retreat, bikers, hikers, and visitors of Camp Buckhorn now keep the park busy year round.
Camping at Paris Mountain is top-notch, including paved camping sites, 13 of which offer tent pads, five trailside campsites around the North Lake Loop. Whether you are coming from out of state, or a local looking to escape the city for a few days, be sure to make a reservation for your campsite.
Discovery Island Waterpark
Splash it up at the refreshing oasis in Simpsonville, SC (about 15 minutes from Downtown Greenville) where you can plunge down several waterslides, ride a boogie board down the Flowrider surfing simulator, or just float around in an inner tube down a lazy river. The park is open from May-September $12 for adults, $8 for youngins, and $4 for non-swimmers.
The Gorge Zipline Canopy Tour
Located less than 45 minutes from Downtown Greenville, in Saluda, NC, this outdoor adventure is open 7 days a week and will definitely be checked off my bucket list this year. Begin your 3 1/2 hour trip perched on the rim of the famous Green River Gorge and plunge into untouched wilderness featuring 11 zip lines, 2 huge rappels and a sky bridge! The Gorge offers unique perspectives and dramatic effects. Comprised solely of tree-based platforms, The Gorge drops an unprecedented 1,100 vertical feet from start to finish. Experience breathtaking views of 10,000 acres of protected forest and hear the roar of the Green River.
Tours operate rain or shine, and regardless of temperature. Thunderstorms are common in the summer, but rarely cause tour cancellations. At their discretion, they can delay, or postpone a tour in order to avoid passing storms. IF a tour is cancelled by The Gorge, participants will receive a refund or "rain check" voucher depending on the circumstances of the cancellation.
The Gorge recommends not wearing loose clothing like ponchos or scarves, they also say not to wear any "daisy dukes" (short shorts). I imagine that would be very uncomfortable. They also recommend not bringing cell phones, wallets, or valuable jewelry on the tour. So dress comfortable, practical, wear some good hiking shoes, bring a bottle of water, and you are ready for a wild ride!
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