Table Rock

(Mountains)

Portion of NHAP infrared photograph (1981) of Table Rock Reservoir (black) with Table Rock outcrops (white) to the southwest Outlined area corresponds to the topographic map to the right.

Portion of topographic map of Table Rock from Table Rock USGS quadrangle (1978). Table Rock Reservoir is shown in the upper right corner (blue).

Cartographic Products:

Table Rock Table Rock

(NHAP) (Topo Map)

SC MAPS Order Form (.xls format)

Rationale

The Table Rock Mountain region is an excellent example of Blue Ridge topography, land use, and wildlife habitat. At 3,124 feet above sea level, the mountain itself is one of the highest in South Carolina. Its sheer cliffs and bare rock exposures create spectacular scenic views characteristic of this mountainous region. Waterfalls abound on steep mountain slopes, and numerous hiking trails lead not only to the summit of Table Rock Mountain, but also to a variety of unique habitats and forest ecosystems at lower elevations. Table Rock Mountain is the major attraction in Table Rock State Park, one of South Carolina's oldest and best known parks, which has recently become a major tourist attraction for the whole southeastern region of the United States. The park area also reveals a diverse human history, both Native American and colonial, as well as a rich heritage of folk tales and traditions. The recent influx of tourists has replaced logging as the major economic resource and created a demand for even more development which has in turn created much controversy over how best to manage the land for so many different and sometimes contradictory purposes.

Background Information
     Description of Landforms
        Characteristic Landforms of the Blue Ridge
        Geographic Features of Special Interest
        Blue Ridge Rock Types
        Blue Ridge -- Piedmont Boundary
        Fracturing, Folding, and Uplift of the Blue Ridge
     Influence of Topography on Historical Events and Cultural Trends
        Native American Folklore
        Traditional Scottish Ballads of the Blue Ridge
        Ellicott's Rock
        Mountains as Recreational Areas
        Tourist Attractions
     Natural Resources, Land Use, and Environmental Concerns
        Climate Influences Land Use
        Trout Streams
        Fish Hatcheries and Stream Stocking
        Soils and Farming
        Unique Habitats and Changes Through Time
        Constructing Reservoirs
        Hydroelectric Power Plants
        Multiple Use of the Blue Ridge Landscape: Concepts and Conflicts

Study Site 2A--Table Rock (Mountains)
    Brief Site Description
        Introduction
        Table Rock Legend
    Table Rock State Park Constructed by CCC
    Activity 2A-1: Mountain Landforms
    Activity 2A-2: Land Use and Development