Get Down to Great Falls
Have you heard about the exciting changes happening in Great Falls? Outdoor recreation is becoming a highlight of the area, which is poised to be a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Thanks to Duke Energy’s construction of a whitewater access point in the natural riverbed of the Catawba River just above Cedar Creek Reservoir, whitewater recreation is now on the map, attracting adventurous tourists to the area. 
But whitewater is just the beginning! Currently, Great Falls is in phase one of a new rail trail project. This trail will follow the historic rail line that ran through the town when its textile mills were active. It will be a great addition to the Carolina Thread Trail. It will eventually connect to the existing Rocky Creek Trail and span about four miles in total. Phase 1 is almost finished now, and it is looking fantastic!
Rail trails are built from repurposed abandoned rail beds. An advantage to using the rail beds is that a good part of the design work is already done, so the path has already been laid out and cleared for the most part. Some maintenance is usually required to get these rail beds back in shape, like addressing any draining issues that have popped up over the years. Initial improvements and maintenance on the Great Falls Rail Trail were completed earlier this year, and now the trail is poised to stand the test of time!
This trail will eventually become an access point for a new South Carolina state park that is being developed on the islands adjacent to the town. Tourism funds generated by visitors to this park will aid in revitalizing the area! Recreation opportunities, including the Great Falls Rail Trail, will be a key factor in getting people to recognize the beauty of Great Falls.
We’re thrilled to see the progress on this trail, and with each phase completed, we are excited to see all the new visitors ready to experience all the outdoor adventures Great Falls has in store. Make sure you put this rail trail on your list of Carolina Thread Trails to visit!
A formal parking and trailhead area is in development. Currently, there is some space available to park adjacent to the south end of the trail off Republic Street – approximately 41 Republic Street, Great Falls, SC. Visitors should park next to the trail and not at the nearby train depot just to the south, which is a private residence.