In a previous blog post, I described my cruise throughout the Lake Wylie, S.C. area and while cruising around those back roads was incredible; there are also more notably known routes throughout the Charlotte area that I recommend investigating. It all depends where you live or are staying. Some of these great byways are some great scenic drives in South Carolina as follow:
Falling Waters Scenic Byway
South Carolina’s Loneliest Road dishes up more than just solitude. Falling Waters Scenic Byway is only 13 miles long, but you will spend so much time exploring all the obvious (scenic overlooks) and hidden treasures (a footpath to the Chattooga River) along the way, that you should probably plan to spend hours on this country road.
Edisto Island National Scenic Byway
Take a lazy drive along this national scenic byway where you will meander in and out tree tunnels, salt marshes, a forest, and a farm or two. Stop along the way to see historic churches or shop at a roadside fruit and vegetable stand as you make your way to the end of the road: the Atlantic Ocean.
Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway
SC-11, a.k.a. The Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway is 110 miles filled with amazing country sights. It stretches from I-85 in Gaffney to join I-85 again in Fairplay, South Carolina near the Georgia border. The trip itself is just under three hours, but you will find yourself stopping along the way at all the fantastic sights and attractions, like the famous Peachoid near Gaffney, and Table Rock near Pickens. Keep your phone or camera on the ready – especially for the short bridge you will cross over beautiful Lake Keowee.
Savannah River National Scenic Byway
The Savannah River National Scenic Byway is 100 miles long. You will pass through some charming South Carolina small towns and find so many beautiful old churches to admire you may decide to nickname this “The Historic Churches Scenic Byway.”
Old Sheldon Church Road Scenic Byway
Folks who have visited the Old Sheldon Church Ruins will unanimously agree: the drive down Old Sheldon Church Road Scenic Byway is at least as beautiful as the remains of the old church you will find along the route. If you are a sucker for tree canopies that are dripping in Spanish moss, then this is the drive for you. It is only seven miles long but, that is 14 miles by the time you return the same way you came.
Plantersville Scenic Byway
Head to South Carolina’s newest addition to our scenic byways and discover some new historic sites you may not have known were right in your own backyard. Samworth Plantation is worthy of a stop if you love wildlife. History buffs will enjoy visiting the ruins of Prince Frederick’s Chapel. The route is only 11 miles long, but it is a beauty!
Western York Scenic Byway
Embark on this 66-mile journey through the rolling hills in western York County. Enjoy small towns like Sharon and McConnells as well as Historic downtown York. You will love this winding road that doubles back in the shape of a “U.”
Whether you are looking at a long drive or a short one, there are a variety of great scenic drives in South Carolina no matter where you are located.
Jamie Pappas
