Earth Day is coming up on Saturday, and I simply cannot think of a better place to celebrate than Greenville, South Carolina. Greenville is known for, well, being green. There are so many beautiful green spaces scattered across the area, and we are situated right in the pocket of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the mountains of Upstate South Carolina. Today I thought I’d detail a few of my favorite spots in Greenville where you can celebrate the beautiful world around us!
Furman University
If you’re looking for beautiful green space to enjoy, you simply have to visit Furman’s campus. Mentioned in several top ten lists of the most beautiful universities in the United States, you’re sure to be wowed by the natural beauty on campus. From perfectly curated flower beds, to stunningly tall oak trees and a lake that hosts several families of swans, Furman is the perfect spot to take in a beautiful view.
Paris Mountain
If you’re wanting to appreciate nature while going on an easy hike, Paris Mountain is the place for you. Paris Mountain contains a whole host of different hiking trails that are perfect for all skill levels. One of my personal favorites is the Sassafras Loop Trail, which is perfect for intermediate hikers who want to be surrounded by beautiful trees!
Falls Park
Falls Park lies in the heart of downtown Greenville and is unlike any other city park you’ve ever seen. Take a walk across Liberty Suspension Bridge to get a stunning view of the cascading waterfalls on the Reedy River. You can find many bench swings, paved nature trails, and local performers ready to charm you. The park is also surrounded by incredible local cafes, ice cream shops, and local restaurants, so if you want to spend your whole day in this area you won’t be lost for food and drink!
Bald Rock
While I love a good hike, there are times where I crave seeing the beauty of nature without having to get in a workout. This is what makes Bald Rock an excellent place to visit. It’s just a short drive and requires no hiking to get to the overlook. This the perfect spot for enjoying a stunning view of the upstate mountains.
Pretty Place Chapel
I always say that being in nature is like a religious experience for me, and if you want to take that literally this Earth Day, check out Pretty Place Chapel! Located a half an hour past Bald Rock, Pretty Place has a stunning view of the upstate with the added beauty of a simple wooden chapel with the verse “I will lift up my eyes to the hills” written above the overlook. I highly recommend driving to the chapel and drinking in the view for a bit.