Raven Rock and Lake Keowee - Member Hike

Hike Name:	Raven Rock and Lake Keowee
Country:	United States
State:	South Carolina
Nearby Town:	Clemson
Rating:
Directions:	From Clemson, drive north for 20 miles on SC 133 and turn left onto SC 11 then turn left. The entrance to the park's picnic area is on your immediate left, or you can turn right to reach the Park Office, hiking trails, lake access, camping area and cabin. From Walhalla, drive 20 miles northwest on SC 11, and the entrances are just beyond the bridge that crosses Lake Keowee.
Total Hike Distance:	4.20 miles
Hike Difficulty:	Moderate to Difficult
Permit Required:	No
Hike Type:	Roundtrip, Loop Hike
Hike Starts/Ends:	Meeting House parking lot Keowee Toxaway State Park
Trails Used:	Natural Bridge Trail and Raven Rock Trail
Backcountry Campsites:	Yes
Backcountry Water Sources:	None
Management:	None
Contact Information:	SC State Parks
Best Season:	Summer
Users:	Hikers
Road Conditions:	Primary Paved Roads
Hike Summary:	There is a parking lot behind the Meeting House at Keowee-Toxaway State Natural Area. This is a moderately strenuous, well-marked 4.2-mile loop. It is not a hike that I like to “rush” through. Due to the excellent swimming opportunities, you will probably want to plan at least a half a day. Also on your return from the lake there is a steep ascent. The first part of the hike is on the Natural Bridge Trail and shortly after you cross Poe Creek on the Natural Bridge, you will turn right onto the Raven Rock Trail. You will ascend and descend around McKinney Mountain to a rocky area near the top where you will be treated to a beautiful view of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the west. There are some beautiful boulder displays. Continuing, you will come to another lookout where you can observe Lake Keowee. Then begin a steep descent to the lakeshore. After enjoying the lake, you will begin a steep ascent over stone ridges with excellent views of the lake, then descend to Poe Creek. There are some beautiful places to observe the creek. Boulders in the creek provide a way to cross Poe Creek where you will rejoin the Natural Bridge Trail for your return. If you are planning on swimming, do not wear your favorite, light colored swim suit. The area around the lake is red clay. Reservations and a fee are required for camping.