An outstanding day in the mountains with Tom yesterday. We went to Table Rock, but hiked to Pinnacle Mountain instead, the highest mountain fully in SC. Our route was Table Rock trail to Panther Gap, then Ridge Trail over to Pinnacle Trail, which took us up the mountain on the easy side. Most of the climbing was on Table Rock. Then down from Pinnacle on Pinnacle trail (STEEP!) to an awesome overlook, then down to where Mill Creek trail joins Pinnacle trail and on to Carrick Creek trail for the last mile or so. Phenomenal rock gardens on Mill Creek/Pinnacle. I think the best way to do this route is the opposite of what we did, and maybe coming back down the Mill Creek connector instead of all way out to Panther Gap. Either way though, this beats the hell out of the standard hike up Table Rock, and has far fewer people on it as an added bonus. About 8 miles. We left the house at 8, started hiking a little before 11 and finished at 4, no rush.
Climbing Table Rock
On Pinnacle Trail.
A false peak. We thought this was it, so we got a picture.
Ok, NOW we're on Pinnacle Mountain.
This sucks Dad. I hate being up here. ;)
At the overlook on the way down.
Where's Tom?
And the rock garden.
