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Y Hiking Club
Y HIKING CLUB – All Members Welcome!
Celebrate time outdoors on the many spectacular trails and state parks in our area with family, friends and other Y members. The Y Hiking Club is a great way to stay active, connect with others in the great outdoors and enjoy the wonderful beauty of nature.
Anyone is welcome to join any of our hikes, however, each hike involves a varied level of difficulty. Please take into consideration the length and elevation gain of the hike that you plan to attend and consider your current fitness level.
While registration is not required, we encourage you to register for individual hikes below. By registering, you will help us know who’s coming and have your contact information as well as any emergency contact information.
Stay Connected! Join our Y Hiking Club Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yhikingclub
Questions: Contact Ryan Jobs at [email protected]
December 14/2025 - Clemson Experimental Forest - Dam Road, Issaqueena, Rocky and Collarbone Trail
Hike: Dam Road, Issaqueena, Rocky & Collarbone Trail (Clemson Experimental Forest)
Overview:
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Distance: ~5.1 miles (loop)
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Elevation Gain: ~374 feet
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Difficulty: Moderate (gradual inclines, some rocky/uneven sections)
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Estimated Hiking Time: 2–2.5 hours (including breaks)
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Trail Surface: Natural forest trails, dirt paths, rocky areas, and lakefront sections
Description:
This loop combines the Dam Road, Issaqueena, Rocky, and Collarbone Trails in the Clemson Experimental Forest. The route winds through hardwood forest, passes along the shores of Lake Issaqueena, and includes rocky outcrops and varied terrain. With moderate mileage and gentle elevation, it’s a rewarding hike without being overly strenuous.
December is a great time to enjoy this trail — crisp, cool weather, fewer bugs, and more open views through the forest canopy.
Important Considerations:
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Trail Difficulty: Rated moderate. The hike is not overly steep, but rocky sections and uneven ground require careful footing.
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Navigation: The loop connects several trails. A GPS map or AllTrails app is recommended to stay on route.
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Footwear & Gear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Trekking poles optional.
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Weather: Dress in layers for cooler December temperatures. Be prepared for cold starts and the possibility of damp ground from recent rain.
What to Bring:
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Water (at least 1 liter)
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Snacks
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Extra layers (jacket, gloves, hat if needed)
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Hiking poles (optional)
Park / Trail Information:
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Access: Free (Clemson Experimental Forest – Lake Issaqueena area)
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Restrooms: Limited; no permanent facilities guaranteed at the trailhead
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GPS / Trailhead Address: Dam Road, Issaqueena Lake, Central/Pickens County, SC
Google Map Link
Carpooling:
Interested in carpooling? Please email Ryan Jobs ([email protected]) after registering, and I’ll connect participants who want to ride together.
Meeting Time & Location:
Meet at the Issaqueena Lake / Dam Road trailhead at 8:45 AM. We’ll begin hiking promptly at 9:00 AM.
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11/15/25 | 12/13/25 | Online / Front Desk | $ 0.00 | $ 0.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
12/13/25
|
Register Closes 12/12/2025 |
January 10/2026 - Nine Times Preserve: Cedar Rock Mountain and Big Rock Mountain Loop
Hike: Nine Times Preserve – Cedar Rock Mountain & Big Rock Mountain Loop
Overview:
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Distance: 5.9 miles (loop)
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Elevation Gain: 1,463 feet
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Difficulty: Difficult, with steep and rocky sections
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Estimated Hiking Time: About 5 hours (including breaks)
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Trail Surface: Natural terrain, steep inclines, boulder scrambling, and uneven paths
Description:
This challenging loop in Nine Times Preserve near Pickens, SC, climbs both Cedar Rock Mountain and Big Rock Mountain. The trail features steep ascents, rugged terrain, and a memorable ¼-mile section on Big Rock Mountain where hikers must scramble across large boulders.
The reward: panoramic views, diverse forest habitat, and one of the most unique hiking experiences in the Upstate. This is not a casual stroll—be prepared for a workout and an adventure.
Important Considerations:
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Trail Difficulty: Rated difficult. You must be in good physical condition and comfortable with strenuous uphill climbs and rocky footing.
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Navigation: Trails are marked but include multiple intersections. Stay with the group.
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Footwear & Gear: Hiking boots or rigid-soled trail shoes are required. Hiking poles are highly recommended for stability.
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Facilities: There are no restrooms at the preserve.
What to Bring:
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Plenty of water
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Energy snacks
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Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes
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Hiking poles (recommended)
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Extra layers depending on weather
Park Information:
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Access: Free – Nine Times Preserve, Pickens, SC
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Restrooms: None at this location
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GPS Address: Cedar Rock Trail Parking Lot – Corner of Nine Times Rd. & E. Preston McDonald Rd., Pickens, SC
Google Maps Link
Carpooling:
If you’re interested in carpooling, please email Ryan Jobs ([email protected]) after registering, and I’ll connect those who want to ride together.
Meeting Time & Location:
Meet at the main parking lot (corner of Nine Times Rd. and E. Preston McDonald Rd.) at 8:45 AM to review safety and hiking guidelines. We’ll begin the hike promptly at 9:00 AM.
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12/13/25 | 1/9/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 0.00 | $ 0.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
01/10/26
|
Registration Closed Opens on 12/13/25 |