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Going on a few fall foliage driving tours is the perfect way to spend time around Lake Hartwell in Autumn. Taking in all the breathtaking natural colorful sights while enjoying time with your family and friends is an afternoon you’ll remember forever.
Admiring the changing colors of leaves in fall is one of the most magical experiences ever, especially in the Lake Hartwell area. It’s impossible not to enjoy the beauty the fall leaves provide. If this is one of your first fall foliage trips, then you are in for a real treat!
The Lake Hartwell area is simply stunning and conveniently located on the South Carolina and Georgia line, so you can easily enjoy the foliage from two states. While the fall foliage on the lake itself is quite impressive, it’s also fun to take some fall foliage driving tours.
Fall Foliage Driving Tours Near Lake Hartwell, SC
Fall color watch in South Carolina can begin as early as September and usually peaks near the end of October. However, you can usually still have an impressive view in the first couple of weeks of November.
Chau-Ram Park
Approximately one hour from Clemson, you will find the most gorgeous views of fall foliage at this park, complete with waterfalls, picnic areas, and a suspension bridge that goes across the Chauga River.
There is so much to see and do, so load up the family and head out for this amazing fall leaves road trip near Lake Hartwell. Take a hike, go fishing, or just sit and relax while looking at the fall leaves. Just keep in mind that the park does close during mid-November until February, so plan to go earlier than later.
Brass Town Falls
Cascading waterfalls, breathtaking views, and the prettiest fall foliage you can lay your eyes on are all found at Brass Town Falls. You can’t get any closer to nature than walking through this fantastic area in this hidden gem. Located approximately an hour from Anderson, this is one of the best places for fall foliage in South Carolina!
For the best experience, get out of the car and take a walk through the crunching leaves.
Bull Sluice
While you can visit the Bull Sluice to go on a raft ride down the Chattooga River, you can also stop by and admire the scenery. Sit down, breath in the fresh air, watch the kayakers, and take lots of photos of this gorgeous location. I definitely recommend adding this to your list of drives to see fall leaves from Lake Hartwell.
Sadlers Creek State Park
Being right on the lake, everything about Sadlers Creek State Park is perfect for admiring fall foliage. It has awe-inspiring views, trails, waterfalls, and so much more. Bring some sandwiches and enjoy a picnic while embracing the peaceful tranquility this park has to offer. You can even go fishing in Lake Hartwell off their pier. Once you visit, you’ll want to go back again and again.
While you’re out enjoying the fall weather, you should also check out some of the fun corn mazes in the area.
More Fall Drives In South Carolina
If you’re willing to venture further out for your fall colors road trip, try these state parks in South Carolina.
Georgia Fall Foliage Trips Near Lake Hartwell
Plan your fall foliage trips in Georgia in October for peak color change. But even if you head out in September or early November, you’re still likely to see some beautiful color.
Black Rock Mountain
Spend time capturing photos of fall foliage near Lake Hartwell at Black Rock Mountain. It’s a short drive from the lake, so it makes the perfect day trip location. There are 11 miles of hiking trails, plus plenty of places for fishing, and picnicking. It’s impossible to not fall in love with the views when you visit.
Stunning fall foliage near Lake Hartwell can be seen from September to November.
Tugaloo State Park
The views here are spectacular, and it’s the perfect spot for kicking your feet up and relaxing. There are plenty of spots to go on a hike, eat lunch picnic-style, or sit and watch the water. If you add this to your fall color watch agenda, you and your family won’t be disappointed.
If you’re able to stay overnight, make sure to book one of the yurts in this park.
Cloudland Canyon State Park
While Cloudland Canyon is a little bit further of a drive from Lake Hartwell, it is worth every second! Start your traveling early in the day and arrive in time to view the ever-changing fall leaves, along with caves, waterfalls, and wildlife. Take your bikes and use the bicycle trail or grab a backpack and go for a long hike. Either way, you will see some of the most beautiful fall foliage in Georgia.
Tallulah Gorge
You will fall in love with the enchanting views and overlooks at Tallulah Gorge. There are so many things to look at and do—it’s impossible to be bored. You are going to want to take your camera because there are dozens of photo ops you’ll want to document. The fall foliage is purely stunning and unforgettable. Make sure to take some water and treck up the staircase so you can take in some of the best fall foliage on the east coast.
More fall drives in Georgia
Will you be taking a fall foliage driving tour this year?
Which of these fall foliage tours near Lake Hartwell are you most excited about? There are so many beautiful spots to see!
