River Falls

One of the most scenic drives in South Carolina is River Falls Road, which ascends the foothills following the Middle Saluda River, passing small farms with unrivaled views of the Blue Ridge until reaching Jones Gap State Park. For many who visit the State Park, this is the route they take after departing Scenic Highway 11. Naturaland Trust has been steadfast over the years to add to Jones Gap State Park because it’s one of the most popular parks in South Carolina and encompasses one of the most biologically diverse areas of the upcountry. By broadening the park’s boundaries and offering diverse ways to access the ridgelines, waterfalls, and rivers, we can expand public access to include more people spread across a larger area. River Falls is approximately 150 acres and adjoins Naturaland Trust property, which connects to Jones Gap. The property contains a striking and mature hardwood forest, headwater streams, bottomland, and 750ft of frontage on the Middle Saluda—all of the facets that inspired and led to the protection of Jones Gap State Park. Additionally, the property contains a mile of frontage on River Falls Road.

State Parks supports this project. It is one of their top priorities to see it protected and added to Jones Gap. With the Bank’s support, we will be closer to our goal and will be able to close on the property until PRT can take over ownership. We envision this property becoming a new access point or trailhead to climb the ridge and connect into Rim of the Gap trail, or become its own trail system. We will work with SCPRT to explore the options and their management preferences to align with the State Park. Ultimately, we see this property owned and managed by SCPRT, but Naturaland Trust is willing to hold the property until that time.