Named for Revolutionary War hero Gen. Andrew Pickens, this city was founded in 1868. True to its motto, “Where the Mountains Begin,” Pickens cherishes its Appalachian roots.
This mountain spirit lives on at Hagood Mill Historic Site. Built in 1845 by James Hagood, the water-powered gristmill named for him grinds corn to this day. The mill now forms the centerpiece of the site, which encompasses historic cabins, a blacksmith shop, a cotton gin and a moonshine still. These venues come to life on the third Saturday of each month, when the mill operates and artisans and craftsmen demonstrate Southern Appalachian traditions, from quilt-making to blacksmithing. Festivities often coincide with on-site events showcasing Appalachian music, such as the Banjo Extravaganza and Americana Folk Festival. Also on the grounds is a significant collection of prehistoric Native American rock carvings at Hagood Creek Petroglyph Center.
Explore more of the area’s past in downtown Pickens at the Pickens County Museum of Art & History, housed in the old county jail, and take a free tour of the Hagood-Mauldin House, which dates to 1856. On Main Street, the Pickens Amphitheater hosts a full slate of events, including a summer concert series and main-stage music performances for the annual Pickens Azalea Festival in April.
Get some exercise on the scenic 8.5-mile Doodle Trail, an abandoned rail line that runs between Pickens and Easley. For adventurous cyclists, the off-road Town Creek Bike Park ranks as one of the premier off-road bicycling facilities in the Upstate. The 100-acre park includes a pump track and earthen bowl, dirt jumps, and a wide paved trail.
The mountains literally begin a few miles north, along state Highway 11, aka the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway. A short drive from downtown Pickens brings you to Table Rock State Park, where you can hike to the summit of Table Rock to take in the spectacular view.
Eat and Drink
Stop at Burning Brick Tavern for a craft beer and a good burger.
At Coyote Coffee, a breakfast sandwich goes down easy with a cappuccino or cold brew.
The Porkette specializes in slow-smoked Carolina- and Texas-style barbecue.
Rivyve is the place for fresh-squeezed juices, smoothies and wellness shots.
Shop
Forage is where locals shop for women’s fashions, jewelry and home accessories on Main Street.
For a cornucopia of vintage items, check out Finders Keepers Antiques & Collectibles and Unique Finds.
At Market at the Mill, two warehouses stock items from children’s toys and women’s clothing to furniture and leather goods.
