Trail Tips
Ride Safe
When biking, wear a helmet and use a bell to signal your approach to other trail users. Consider bringing a spare tube and pump so that you can fix a flat tire and offer help to other cyclists in need. When riding on roads, bike in the same direction as traffic.
Trailhead
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
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
Phone: 864-488-8800
info@gbpw.com
