Station Cove Falls
by rmajor
Station Cove Falls is just a few miles north of Walhalla, SC, near the Oconee Station Historic Site. The Historic Site has a trail that links to the falls trail, but I decided to save that hike for another day.
I parked at the trailhead down the road from the entrance to the Historic Site.
The bulletin board had this reassuring sign. My appropriate precautions consisted of making plenty of noise as I hiked, as several park rangers have told me that bears are usually skittish and will avoid contact with people if they hear them coming.
One of the reasons I chose this trail is it had been a while since I hiked, and this half mile trail was rated as easy. I did not want to push my luck with my physical condition after being off the trails for so long. The trail was indeed easy. The path was wide and well kept, and there was not much elevation change to deal with. Steps on the trail were few and far between.
There were a few footbridges to cross over gullies and minor tributaries.
The only part of the trail that worried me was the stream crossing below the falls. The rocks were wet enough to pose a danger of being slippery. I stepped carefully and made it across without any problems.
This is the view of the stream above the crossing.
Shortly after crossing the stream I was treated to my first view of the 60 foot cascade known as Station Cove Falls. It was well worth the trip.
This is a closer view of the falls. After lingering for a while to rest and enjoy the view, I returned to my vehicle. I very much enjoyed this hike and plan to return someday.