The Long and Winding Road

Woke up to sunny skies and decided to forgo the museums this morning and take a ride in the upcountry. Our route took us west and north towards the highest altitudes of South Carolina. We passed through the the town of Pickens and drove to the grist mill which was closed. On to a waterfall which we never found on two tries. I got spooked when a ratty pickup pulled out and took off at a high speed. A large confederate flag was attached to the bed and rippling in the breeze.

We saw a sign for Sassafras Mountain and turned to ascend the highest peak in our state. A treacherous, curvy road which took us to a hiking trail head with a lookout. This was not the correct road with the visitor center. We looked out and it was getting a little overcast, but a beautiful vista.

Lots of hardwood and pine trees  and on a clear day you can see Georgia and North Carolina. Headed back down the mountain in a low gear.

Next stop was Table Rock state park with a lovely visitor center and clean bathrooms. It was sad to see the map of their camping loops since we are no longer campers. Luckily we decided not to go into the park and take the 4 mile hike to the famous mountain. Instead we opted for a recommended place for lunch which was pretty lame, but rustic. We left just as it started to rain. Then it started to pour and never let up. We drove slowly and passed through Travelers Rest and the Furman University campus. Could not see much through the driving rain and somehow got back to the hotel. I had to stay in the car for a long time till I could run for the door without getting completely soaked.

A nice nap under warm sheets was just what we needed to fix our wet bodies. Now it is after 5:00 and the sun is shining. Time to go for a walk and some food. We decided on the Blue Ridge Brewing Company and enjoyed a comfortable place with good food. Afterwards we walked down to the falls to see them with the lights on. Not too exciting, however we did find another mouse with a little help from some young tourists. This one was peeking down from a metal frame.

Along Main Street are many statues and informative plaques. We enjoyed learning about a former Mayor, Max Heller. As a young man he escaped Europe and the Holocaust and ended up in Greenville. He became successful in business, politics and as a visionary in creating this beautiful downtown.

This statue and plaza is dedicated to the desegregation of the county high school.

One area has metal  plates set in the sidewalk with famous quotations and interesting sayings. Lots to see and do here. A bit of TV finished off the evening.