Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, The Cliffs offers more than outdoor adventure—it’s a space for mindfulness, renewal, and deeper connections with the natural world.
Nature isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a lifeline. A walk in the woods or a quiet moment by the water can clear your mind, spark creativity, and provide moments of peace, inspiration, and rejuvenation. Connecting with nature is essential for fostering mental and physical wellbeing. It deepens our appreciation for the environment and cultivates a sense of harmony with the world around us. There is no place better to connect with nature than The Cliffs. Located in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains along the Blue Ridge Escarpment, The Cliffs communities are surrounded by breathtaking vistas and rugged beauty. The great Pisgah National Forest lies to the west, an untouched wilderness with misty peaks, cascading waterfalls, and ancient hardwood forests. Lake Keowee, Lake Jocassee, and Lake Toxaway are jewels of the Blue Ridge region— crystal-clear, mountain-fed, and pristine. The region boasts countless parks and wilderness areas, places to connect, unwind, and recreate.
Outdoor Pursuits
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Hiking Tips
Protect Your Foundation—Your Feet: Invest in a good pair of high-top, waterproof hiking boots for support and protection from the elements.
Bring a Map: Pre-download your hiking map from AllTrails to ensure access even if you lose service.
Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of water and snacks, and for more challenging trails, consider using hiking poles for extra stability.
Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wildlife, and do not feed any animals you may encounter on your hike.
Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and dispose of waste properly.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to changes in the trail, weather conditions, and your physical abilities.
Tell Someone Your Plans: Let someone know your hiking plans, including the trail you will be on and when you expect to return.
Ways To Connect
At The Cliffs, adventure is always calling! Whether it’s hiking, kayaking, or fly fishing with the Outdoor Pursuits team, or hitting the road with Tour de France legends George Hincapie, Bobby Julich, and Christian Vande Velde on their monthly rides, there’s no shortage of ways to get outside. Saddle up for a trail ride at the Keowee Vineyards equestrian center or grab a paddleboard or kayak at the Lake Club. Walking trails wind through each Cliffs community, and there are countless access points to state and national parks and wilderness areas just outside the gates.
“It’s undeniable that getting out in the wilderness is mentally and physically beneficial for us. I think nature humbles us and takes us back to our foundational core. In nature, we’re in awe of the small things—of plants, or an insect, or a bird. When you’re on a hike, your senses are magnified. Colors are brighter; smells are intensified. I would argue that being in nature brings out the best in people; it brings out an innocence and sense of wonder. I watch people push through fear; I watch their mood and sense of well-being improve. I’d say I have the coolest job in the world.”
– Jake Wickiser | Outdoor Pursuits at The Cliffs
Protected Areas
Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina are a treasure trove of natural wonders.
Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina is a sprawling playground of hardwood forests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged mountain peaks, perfect for hikers and bikers. Neighboring Pisgah is Nantahala National Forest—a lush expanse of verdant valleys, rushing rivers, and the famed Nantahala Gorge, which offers whitewater rafting and scenic trails. In South Carolina, Table Rock State Park is a standout with its dramatic granite dome, challenging hikes, and serene lakes that mirror the surrounding beauty. Nearby, Devils Fork State Park is a jewel for water enthusiasts, with access to the pristine waters of Lake Jocassee, known for its secluded coves, waterfalls, and incredible fishing. The Blue Ridge Parkway ties these destinations together, offering breathtaking vistas and easy access to this nature-lover’s paradise.
This story was featured in Cliffs Living magazine. To see more stories like this one and learn more about The Cliffs, subscribe here.
