August 9, 2022
Natural Bridge & Raven Rock Loop Trails at Keowee Toxaway State Park
These are very nice trails in good condition, generally well maintained, nicely marked and fairly easy on the feet. They could be slippery in several places when wet, but today it was quite dry. Overall the trails are not terribly difficult although there are three sections with moderate inclines. We visited most of the trail features including the natural granite bridge, Middle and Lower Poe Creek Falls, Lake Keowee shoreline and Raven Rock. With today's hot and humid weather it seems the crossing of Poe Creek towards the end of the hike was the most enjoyable where we cooled down with our towels dipped in the pristine creek water. There were very few wildflowers or fungi today. A very enjoyable hike today!
The route
4.8 mi · 945 ft climbing · 3h 56m out, 2h 56m walking · 1.6 mph moving
Elevation
Hover over the profile to see the elevation and steepness. Your position will be shown on the map.
- Steepness
- Gentle under 5%
- Moderate 5–10%
- Steep 10–15%
- Very steep over 15%
19 photos are shown on the map where they were taken — click one to see it full size.
Photos (20)
Natural Bridge . . . a bit difficult to see through the Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel. Today's Hikers (L-R): Bob, Gary, Renee, Mike, Jenny, Heather, Angela, John & Vic. A nice place from which to hike. The first section of the trail was quite nice. The natural granite bridge (lower right) is not very obvious, but here are some photos around it. Heather spotted this rather unique tree which seems to be supporting this rock ledge. Middle Poe Creek Falls Waiting for it . . . looks like Renee won the lottery! We hiked two separate loops. Nice trail marking for each section. We hiked through a section with a large number of massive boulders and rock outcroppings. Some fungi, but the trail was very dry. This is all we saw of wildflowers. The top plant is Atlantic pigeonwings. A view of Lake Keowee along the Raven Rock Loop. Breaktime on Lake Keowee. Yes, it was hot today! A large rock formation along the shore from which some kids were jumping into the lake. Looking toward the southwest are our hikers on Raven Rock with Lake Keowee in the background. The favorite spot on the hike where we were cooled off in Poe Creek. A large rock crossing over Poe Creek. Lower Poe Creek Falls