The best hikes from bus stations around Travelers Rest
4.5
(128)
1,493
hikers
20
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Travelers Rest are situated in the southern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering diverse natural landscapes. The region features forested hills, river valleys, and picturesque lakeside paths. Terrain varies from gentle walking paths to routes with significant elevation changes.
Best bus station hiking trails around Travelers Rest
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Furman University to Lake Placid, a 15.1 miles (24.4 km) trail that takes 8 hours 49 minutes to complete. This difficult route includes over 1980 feet (600 m) of elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Furman University Lake Trail, an easy 4.0 miles (6.5 km) path. This route offers a flat loop around the university lake, suitable for a relaxed walk.
- Local hikers also love the Furman University β Furman Bell Tower loop from Furman University, a 3.4 miles (5.5 km) trail leading through the university campus, often completed in about 1 hour 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Travelers Rest is defined by forested hills, river valleys, and lakeside paths. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Travelers Rest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 120 reviews. More than 1500 hikers have used komoot to explore Travelers Rest's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
24.4km
08:46
610m
610m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
6.50km
01:41
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Easy, completely flat circular route.
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This is a view across the lake of the iconic bell tower.
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This is an authentic Japanese shrine that was moved to The USA. it is literally a medieval Japanese structure.
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Furman University was established in 1826, is the oldest private university in South Carolina, among the 75 oldest institutions of higher education in operation nationally today. It is named for Richard Furman, he was one of the most important Baptist clergyman during the early decades of the new nation and an influential advocate of educational institutions throughout the country.
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If you're riding around Furman Lake, there's probably one thing that will catch your attention: the tall tower located on a small peninsula of the lake. It is a 1965 replica of the original bell tower of the campus, which used to sound at the start of classes. If you want to take a closer look or relax on one of the benches beneath it, you'll have to dismount from your bike.
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Furman University was established in 1826, is the oldest private university in South Carolina, among the 75 oldest institutions of higher education in operation nationally today. It is named for Richard Furman, he was one of the most important Baptist clergyman during the early decades of the new nation and an influential advocate of educational institutions throughout the country.
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This dam was built in 1898; the water it collects was known simply as Reservoir 2. After heavy rainfall, you can enjoy seeing it flowing and hear the sound of the rushing water.
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Furman Lake, adjacent to Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina, is a scenic reservoir enhancing the campus landscape. Surrounded by lush greenery, the lake offers a peaceful retreat for cyclists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus station hiking trails are available around Travelers Rest?
There are over 20 hiking routes accessible from bus stations around Travelers Rest, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible from bus stations?
Yes, many trails are suitable for families. For a gentle walk, consider the Furman University Lake Trail, which is an easy 6.5 km route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The region's greenways, like sections of the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail, also offer flat, paved options.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on these bus station hikes?
The trails around Travelers Rest showcase the diverse landscapes of the Blue Ridge foothills. You can expect forested hills, picturesque lakeside paths, and scenic riverside greenways. Some routes offer views of natural features like North Lake or the opportunity to explore unique preserves such as Bunched Arrowhead Heritage Preserve, known for rare plant species.
Are there any loop hikes starting from bus stations in Travelers Rest?
Yes, loop options are available. An easy loop is the Furman University β Furman Bell Tower loop from Furman University, covering about 5.5 km. This allows you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Travelers Rest?
The trails around Travelers Rest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of these routes from public transport, the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge foothills, and the variety of trails available, from easy greenways to more challenging park routes.
Are there any challenging hikes accessible by bus?
For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, the region offers difficult routes. One such option is the Furman University to Lake Placid route, which spans over 24 km with significant elevation changes, providing a rewarding challenge.
Can I find trails with viewpoints or scenic overlooks near bus stations?
While specific viewpoints directly from bus station routes might vary, many trails in the wider Travelers Rest area, particularly within state parks like Caesars Head, are renowned for stunning vistas. The region's diverse terrain often provides elevated sections with scenic views of the surrounding forested hills and valleys.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the bus station trailheads?
Yes, Travelers Rest is known for its amenities. The Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail, which runs through downtown Travelers Rest and is accessible by bus, offers direct access to local shops and restaurants. You can also find places like Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery near some trail sections, perfect for a post-hike refreshment.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions I can see near these hiking trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore several points of interest. Near some routes, you might encounter landmarks like the Lake Placid Dam. The broader area also features attractions such as Liberty Bridge at Falls Park and Falls Park, which are significant natural and architectural highlights in the region.
Is public transport reliable for accessing these hiking trails?
The focus of this guide is on trails specifically chosen for their accessibility via bus stations in and around Travelers Rest, making public transport a convenient option for reaching the trailheads. It allows you to explore the region's natural beauty without needing a car.
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