First Broad River TrailFirst Broad River Trail is currently closed to the public for trail maintenance. Please check back and enjoy the improved trail once work is done.

Overmountain Victory Trail - Lake Whelchel Segment

This natural surface trail offers a beautiful hike 6.7-mile along the shoreline of Lake Whelchel and through the woods.
Trail Uses
Walking / hiking / running Mountain biking
Location
Gaffney (SC)
Length
6.70 miles, Round Trip
Difficulty
Moderate
Surface
Natural surface
Motorized Vehicles
Not Permitted
Fees
No
Pets
Permitted on leash
Parking Spaces
50
Restrooms
Yes
Hours
Dawn - Dusk

Description

The Overmountain Victory Trail - Lake Whelchel encircles the city of Gaffney's primary water source, Lake Whelchel for 6.7-mile natural surface trail. The trail is part of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail which traces the route used by patriot militia during the Kings Mountain campaign of 1780. Today, the public is invited to hike the scenic route both through the woods and around the lake.

"Owned by the Board of Public Works, Lake Whelchel was dedicated in January 1971. The 200-acre lake off I-85 at the New Pleasant Road exit is named for Zeb Whelchel, who started on the board in 1954 and became chairman of the board in 1967. He is credited for the creation of the public reservoir that serves as the primary water source for Cherokee County, according to Donnie Hardin, general manager of the Board of Public Works. The lake is also a source of recreation. There is a public boat ramp (for boats up to 40 horsepower) and picnic facilities."  Go Upstate

Other Information

A South Carolina Fishing License is required, boating permits are available to Cherokee County residents for a $25.00 annual fee and no swimming or wading allowed.

Trail Manager

Visit Gaffney Public Works website  for more information or contact:

Gaffney of Board of Public Works
210 E Frederick St
Gaffney, SC 29340

864-488-8800
info@gbpw.com
View website

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Along the shores of Lake Norman in Catawba County, N.C., the sounds of osprey, red-bellied woodpeckers and cicadas now mingle with the joyful squeals of children, friendly greetings from hikers and the whoosh of mountain bikes zipping by. Catawba County’s newest public park has been over 15 years in the making, and it is finally open.
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Trail Tips

Road Walk Wisdom
Always walk facing the direction of oncoming traffic and wear bright clothing. Pay attention to oncoming traffic, and be prepared to give the right of way if necessary.
Legend
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Trailhead Information

Parking Address and Trailhead Location: 198 Concord Road, Gaffney, SC 29341 MAP

Parking Address to access the Boat Launch and access to trail: 122 Boat Landing Dr, Gaffney, SC 29341. MAP

Click on an icon to get custom directions
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