The Cliffs encompasses over 14,000 acres of waterfront, wooded, and valley landscapes to swim, hike, bike, and explore. Just beyond the seven communities, Lake Keowee, Lake Jocassee, the Jocassee Gorges, and Pisgah National Forest beckon for adventure. Because we believe that the richness of the region very much enhances the quality of life, we are dedicated to helping our community members get out there and enjoy the fresh air.
Meet Anna Claire Richardson, The Cliffs Outdoor Recreation Manager
Anna Claire leads the charge to get outdoors at The Cliffs, planning kayak and canoe tours, paddle board expeditions, wakeboarding lessons, hikes, waterfall walks, wildlife education seminars, and more. Her passion for building community through recreation comes honestly; as a child she lived in Cuba, Germany, South Carolina, and Virginia, giving her a world of landscapes and cultures to learn and fall in love with. Her sense of adventure followed her into higher education, where she studied Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management at Clemson University – a degree focused on managing recreational activities, taking an active role in the environment, and understanding the economic effects of tourism and recreation. It was during her time at Clemson that she first came to The Cliffs as an intern, managing the lake activities. Just before her graduation in 2016, she was hired full time.
Now you’ll find her at all seven communities of The Cliffs, oftentimes with her two dogs in tow. Most members active in the outdoor recreation activities know Laidey and Loulou and enjoy their company during trial hikes. And there are plenty of opportunities to get to know them, Anna Claire, and your fellow neighbors. Beginning in the spring of each year, hikes and kayak tours become a weekly event. The most popular kayak tour paddles from The Keowee Springs Beach Club to a nearby island and cave on Lake Keowee. For the hikers, a four-hour trek to the waterfall at Keowee Falls is always well attended. Each year, Anna Claire and her team plan and coordinate new events and activities as well, from lengthier paddles to outings with professional wakeboarders, fishing guides, and other enthusiasts.
Whatever your passion, or perhaps beginning interest – there is always a way to get outdoors at The Cliffs. The calendar of events is filled with activity that fits all ages, levels of ability, and styles of recreation. So if you would like to take a try at fly fishing, challenge your limits with a seven-mile hike, or are determined to get – and stay – up on the paddle board, you’ll never be short of opportunities to explore your surroundings.
To get started, visit your community calendar for the latest events. Or, reach out to Anna Claire. She is more than happy to talk about and pair interests with adventure, and help anyone get started on their path to the outdoors.
