Paris Mountian State Park
Placid Lake
Paris Mountain State Park’s roots date as far back as the Great Depression, when it was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. This heritage can still be seen in the preserved stone and timber outside of the renovated bathhouse, now known as the Park Center. Inside, the center features historical exhibits and a classroom to teach young and old about the park’s ecology.This is the easiest hike in the park in my opinion. It’s flat. It’s located near the front of the park. And you can do it in an hour. If you just want to get out into nature a bit without tackling something tough, then this is the trail for you. This family friendly trail also tends to be the most crowded trail in the park. The loop itself is very easy. Just keep the lake next to you and make your way around it. You will cross by the end of the lake and the dam which is my favorite part due to the small falls that you’ll see here. Oh and it’s also hikers only. So you don’t have to worry about mountain bike running you into the lake.
During the darkest days of the Great Depression, President Franklin Roosevelt created the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The mission—put young men to work saving America’s natural heritage. In South Carolina, the CCC created 16 state parks that preserve some of the state’s most beautiful places. This work provided access to thousands of acres of public land to all South Carolinians. It also gave jobs to the unemployed and helped many families survive hard times.
Though the work of the CCC occurred more than 80 years ago, an important legacy remains. The park planners of the 1930s wanted to create opportunities for all people, rich or poor, to get closer to nature. They believed that outdoor recreation could help cure many of society’s ills, and that nature could inspire, educate and even give meaning to life. Countless South Carolinians have benefited from the CCC’s idealistic vision.
While walking the lower trails is fun for all dont forget to give the higher elevations a go. If you drive to the top of the mountian youll find a parking area leading to several trails. My personal favorite is the north lake trail. If your lucky you may even see a deer.
Seasons Change
Swimming in Lake Placid during th esummer is a right of passage for many of Greenville's youth. You can also rent paddle baots, it is very exciting.
in the fall the leaves change in a rainbow of colors for a spectacular show
For Paris Moutian only being a few miles from the heart of Greenville it has a stunning amount of biodiversity.
