An amazing opportunity to hike and explore history exists at Landsford Canal State Park in South Carolina. The park is named for Landsford Canal which was built in the early 1820s to bypass rapids on the Catawba River. Ruins of locks, a mill site, and lockkeeper’s house are located here.
Another attraction for the park is thousands of rocky shoals spider lilies which grow in the shallow, rocky stretches of river (also known as shoals). It is one of the largest populations of rocky shoals spider lilies in the world. I was fortunate enough to catch them just as they were starting to bloom – peak bloom is mid-May to mid-June.
It was $6 per adult to enter the park and there is a small parking area near the trailheads. If that is full, there is also a much larger parking area just beyond.
The two main hiking trails are the Canal Trail (1.5 miles) and the Nature Trail (0.6 miles) which are both considered easy in difficulty. They start at the same point, near the log cabin, and break off just before the Guard Lock.
Nature Trail
I started to the left on the Nature Trail along the banks of the Catawba River. Most of the walkway is gravel and wooden bridges; however, there is a small section that would be harder to get a wheelchair or stroller through because it is sand.
This is a beautiful walk to enjoy the sights and sounds of the river. Dozens of turtles were sunning themselves on rocks and logs. My favorite wildflowers were small purple ones, called spiderwort, sprinkled along the route.
Several benches to relax on dot the path for visitors. There are a few openings where you can walk to the bank. If you do go down to the river or on rocks, take care as it is a free-flowing river and can be dangerous.
At one of these openings, I caught sight of a black racer snake in the brush. I watched it slither in the dirt until it disappeared from sight.
Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies
Landsford’s Nature Trail ends at an overlook for the spider lilies. When they are in full bloom, they draw huge crowds so time your visit accordingly. Even when they are not in bloom, the overlook offers wide open views of the river. I even saw someone navigating their canoe through the water.
The Nature Trail connects to the Canal Trail at the overlook so you can: return on the Nature Trail, continue forward on the Canal Trail, or take the Canal Trail back to the trailhead.
Canal Trail/TRACK Trail
From the spider lily overlook, I continued on the Canal Trail. TRACK trails are designed for kids and families as part of the Kids in Parks program.
This is the hike where remnants of the locks and mill site can be found. Information boards are located near each one with history and trivia.
Culverts
After the overlook, the first highlights are culverts. The canal crossed over multiple natural streams, so the streams were channeled under the canal through culverts.
At some points along the path, there are hills and wooden steps. They are easy to climb but make the trail less accessible than the Nature Trail.
Right near these steps, a family of deer ran in front of me and were out of sight in seconds.
Mill Complex
The next structure you come across is the Mill Complex which was built in 1810. Using water power, the mill sawed lumber and ground grain. A pair of retaining walls protected the mill foundation from water damage.
Lifting Locks
My favorite canal feature was the Lifting Locks! These massive stone structures are in excellent condition. You can walk over the arching bridge at the top to get a bird’s eye view.
I spotted anole lizards and skinks climbing trees, walking the locks, and hiding in leaves. There were frogs and tadpoles in one of the streams.
From here, I turned back toward the trailhead. This time I chose to pass the spider lily overlook and follow the Canal Trail rather than go back on the Nature Trail.
Footbridge
Next, I came across the remains of a footbridge. Stone supports on either bank supported a wooden truss bridge. This point is the first of four bridges that crossed the canal.
Guard Lock
The last lock on my way back was the Guard Lock. This lock is shallower than the Lifting Locks so you can explore it a little easier. You can get a peek of the river from here as well. Canal Trail is just uphill from the lock and passes around it to meet back up with the Nature Trail at the trailhead.
Landsford Canal State Park is well worth the trip! Easy hikes, gorgeous nature, and historical sites – what more can you ask for?
My family and I love natural trails and finding gems like the Lifting rocks. The lizards, turtles, and snakes would be right up my son’s ally.
I feel the same way Carey – natural trails are the best! If I can see some wildlife along the way, all the better 🙂
Wow! What a beautiful spot to hike and explore. So interesting to read the historical insights and see the beautiful pictures. The State has done a wonderful job of protecting the land and wildlife.
Thanks Cheri! The state has done a wonderful job of preserving everything 🙂
This looks like a perfect place to explore! Looks like there are tons of awesome photo ops too! I love trails that have water elements too 🙂
It’s one of my favorite hiking spots in South Carolina 🙂 Lakes, rivers, and waterfalls really make a hiking experience extra special!
I love the Mill Complex and Lifting Rocks! I’ve actually been to South Carolina a few times and I actually stay and explore in and around Charleston. I’m getting this one of my list for my next trip?
Yanitza, definitely add this to your list! It is a nice easy day trip and a great way to explore a unique state park 🙂
Yes, definitely a must see! We were always told to go see the spider lilies but never knew about the history and all the sights this state park has to offer. Just as the others have mentioned above, this is a must see. Thank you for filling us in!
Yes! It was an amazing spot to spend the day in nature while encountering structures you don’t see very often.