Paris Mountain Expansion

• Location: Greenville, SC

• Phase 1: 33 acres + 13 acres(complete), Phase 2: 58 acres (ongoing)

• Habitat: Mountain, hardwood forest

• Partners: South Carolina Conservation Bank, Hollingsworth Funds, Graham Foundation

Paris Mountain is one of the most recognizable icons of the Upstate. Only a short drive from downtown, it is also one of South Carolina's most popular state parks. Every year as the Upstate region grows, it's imperative that we maintain the balance between urban and wild spaces by fortifying the natural landscapes that have helped attract so many new residents to the area. Paris Mountain State Park is a treasure for those looking to hike, bike, and even paddle after work. Rising costs of real estate in this area has made it financially difficult for the Park system to expand its borders and cater to the growing needs of a growing city. 

Recognizing this need, Naturaland Trust has stepped in to help purchase and protect key parcels around the state park. The first phase of this project was to acquire 33 acres situated on Brissy Ridge, which extends a popular trail. Through the generous funding of the South Carolina Conservation Bank and Hollingsworth Funds, we were able to permanently protect this beautiful hardwood forest in 2016. We will soon transfer the property to the State Park for long-term management. 

Phase 2 of this effort led us to a property we call Furman Face, which occupies the wooded 58-acre western face of the mountain. This property can be seen from Greenville, Poinsett Highway, downtown Travelers Rest, Furman University, and the Swamp Rabbit Trail. Should this tract be developed, clear-cut or significantly altered, it would permanently affect the viewshed we have all come to associate with greater Greenville. Thankfully, with help from the South Carolina Conservation Bank, Hollingsworth Funds and the Graham Foundation, we are close to making this significant achievement a reality. Once fully funded, the property will be open to the public.