Rafting the Chattooga
You can take every thrill ride at every amusement park in the world and still not match the adrenaline rush of shooting the wild rapids of the Chattooga River. The Chattooga marks the border between upper northeast Georgia and northwest South Carolina. And it remains a mecca for whitewater enthusiasts who come to paddle the Class IV and V rapids made famous by the movie "Deliverance." Guided rafting trips are available through the Nantahala Outdoor Center, which has a South Carolina outpost in Oconee County (trips start at $99.99, lunch included). No paddling experience is necessary. 851 Chattooga Ridge Road, Mountain Rest, S.C. 864-647-9014, noc.com.
Lake Jocassee
A reservoir without much shoreline development, Lake Jocassee sits below the Blue Ridge Escarpment in the Mountain Lakes region of the Upstate. This setting provides some stunning scenery. The clear mountain water reaches a depth of 300 feet in places, making Jocassee an unlikely scuba diving hot spot. Divers can navigate an underwater obstacle course and see structures from the community that existed here before the lake was created in the early 1970s. Boating, fishing and paddling excursions are also popular, but the lake is so large and has so many hidden coves — many with plunging waterfalls — that it never seems crowded. The only public access point is at Devils Fork State Park ($2 admission). 161 Holcombe Circle, Salem, S.C. 864-944-2639, southcarolinaparks.com.
Swamp Rabbit Trail
For some outdoor adventure intown, check out Greenville's Swamp Rabbit Trail. The 21-mile multi-use greenway runs by the Reedy River and along an old rail corridor from downtown all the way to Traveler's Rest. The pathway provides plenty of natural scenery and public art displays along the way. A bike ride is the best way to explore the trail. You'll find bike rental companies downtown, at Traveler's Rest and next to the Swamp Rabbit Cafe. Stop for rest and refreshment at the Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery (sandwiches start at $7). 205 Cedar Lane Road, Greenville, S.C. 864-255-3385, swamprabbitcafe.com.
About the Author
