VS- Dismal Trail and Raven Cliff Falls Loop - Ceasars Head State Park

Start time 9:00 AM at University Square Shopping Center (McDonald's Greenville) OR
9:45 am Ceasars Head -Raven Cliff parking - GPS Google maps show "Raven Cliff Falls Trailhead on Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC" If the main parking lot is full, continue on the highway around the bend and more parking is on the LEFT. I do not advise parking along the road. We will meet at the trailhead sign.
Please bring your SC park pass or be prepared to pay the park fees- Trail access cost: $3 adults; $1.50 SC seniors
Return time from trailhead: 3:30pm Approximate 5+ hour hike
This hike is recommended for physically-fit hikers seeking a substantial physical challenge. Starting at the Raven Cliff parking, we will hike to the Raven Cliff Falls overlook to see the tallest waterfall in South Carolina from a distance. Then we will venture down the steep Dismal Trail. There is a reason its name is Dismal- this trail has a 1200ft elevation drop going down. We will cross the gorgeous rushing creek and start our ascent to Raven Cliff Falls. We will maintain a "slow and steady" climb, passing a rock wall along the way. Then the steep climb continues to the suspension bridge over Raven Cliff Falls. There is a short ladder to climb down right before the bridge. Here we will pull up a rock by the creek and have a well earned lunch. We continue our moderate climb out of the valley and the terrain levels for our return. We may get to see the start of some beautiful spring foliage near the creek and incline. Note: this trail requires some scrambling as there are trees down.
New members must contact the group leader about hiking ability due to the strenuous nature of the trail. There is a carpool fee to ride with others. Please have cash ready to give to your driver- fee noted below. Bring comfortable, solid hiking shoes, plenty of water and lunch. We leave University Square / McDonalds promptly at 9am. Leave no trace!
Raven Cliff Falls and Dismal Trail Loop.
Miles: approx 8.8 EG: 2250
Leader: Terri Flaglor, 704-264-9412
MODERATE PACE- 2-2.5 mph, much slower going up to Raven Cliff Falls from the valley.
Drive RT: 56 MI, $4.00