Foothills Trail Vehicle Access Network

The Foothills Trail Vehicle Access Network cuts through 76 miles of South Carolina’s most rugged backcountry, following maintenance roads that parallel and intersect the famous Foothills Trail. Starting near Table Rock State Park, these dirt and gravel service roads wind through the Blue Ridge escarpment, crossing multiple creek fords and navigating steep grades through dense hardwood forests. The most challenging section threads between Sassafras Mountain and Jones Gap, where rocky switchbacks and seasonal water crossings separate the committed from the casual.

This is moderate to difficult terrain requiring high-clearance 4WD and recovery gear for the water crossings. Spring and fall offer the best conditions, but expect muddy sections year-round in the creek bottoms. No permits required, but camping is limited to designated areas within state parks. The payoff is accessing some of South Carolina’s most pristine wilderness, with opportunities to spot black bear and wild turkey while avoiding the hiking crowds on the main trail.