Oak Grove Lake to Pelham Mill Park

This route is quite long, covering approximately 18.8 kilometers (11.7 miles). It typically takes around 5 hours and 52 minutes to complete, so plan for a full day of hiking.

The route is rated as difficult, primarily due to its significant length of 18.8 kilometers. While many sections feature easily-accessible paths, the endurance required for the distance and cumulative effort means you'll need very good fitness to complete it comfortably.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on this route. Pelham Mill Park, the endpoint, even features a dedicated dog park. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them.

Spring and fall are generally the best seasons for this hike. The weather is milder, and the natural scenery, including potential wildflowers in spring or vibrant foliage in fall, is at its most appealing. Summer can be hot and humid in South Carolina, making the long distance more challenging.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access Oak Grove Lake Park or Pelham Mill Park, nor for the connecting paths.

You'll encounter a varied terrain. The route likely combines paved surfaces, multi-use paths (potentially sections of the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail), and possibly some road walking. Within the parks themselves, you'll find well-maintained paths, though some areas in Pelham Mill Park, particularly near the dam, can be steeper and less clearly marked.

You can typically find parking at Oak Grove Lake Park, which serves as the starting point for this route. Both parks have parking facilities, so you could also arrange a shuttle or car drop-off if you plan to hike one-way.

Restroom facilities are available at both Oak Grove Lake Park and Pelham Mill Park. For the long connecting segment, facilities may be limited, so plan accordingly.

The route connects two distinct highlights: the serene Oak Grove Lake Park, with its peaceful lake and easy loop, and the historically rich Pelham Mill Park, featuring remnants of an old textile mill and the cascading shoals of the Enoree River. The journey itself offers a transition through Greenville's varied landscapes.

While not explicitly part of the official Swamp Rabbit Trail, the connecting route between Oak Grove Lake Park and Pelham Mill Park likely utilizes sections of Greenville's extensive multi-use path system, which includes parts of the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail. This helps create the 'easily-accessible paths' mentioned for this long-distance hike.

Both Oak Grove Lake Park and Pelham Mill Park are located within the Greenville area, so you'll find various restaurants, cafes, and shops a short drive away from either end of the route. It's advisable to bring sufficient water and snacks for the hike itself.