Introduction
Nestled within the renowned Forks Area Trail System (FATS) in Clarks Hill, South Carolina, Deep Step serves up a 5-mile intermediate loop full of ups and downs. Designed with meticulous precision, it's a trail that delivers the kind of flow and pace one has come to expect from FATS. Whether you are an experienced rider looking for some thrills or someone simply keen on an accessible but exciting ride, Deep Step is a trail you won't want to bypass.
Getting to Deep Step
- From I-20: Take SC Exit 1 (SC 230) and proceed north for roughly 5 miles.
- Trailhead Parking: A left turn onto Woodlawn Rd will bring you to the parking area in approximately 4 miles, conveniently located on the left-hand side.
The Characteristics of Deep Step
Vital Stats
- Distance: 5 mi
- Level: Intermediate
- Route type: Loop
- City: Clarks Hill
- State: South Carolina
What Sets Deep Step Apart?
- Flowy Descents: One of the trail's highlights, offering thrilling speeds and opportunities to go airborne.
- Balanced Climbs: Although challenging, the climbs are manageable and serve to elevate the heart rate just enough for an engaging workout.
- Trail Design: Smooth, fast, and devoid of technical difficulties, ensuring a fun ride for all levels.
Key Considerations
- Eyewear: Riders unanimously recommend glasses for protection against stray branches in the pine forest zones.
- Direction: No designated direction for the loop means yielding to oncoming riders is sometimes necessary.
- Connection: Can serve as a connector to the northern trails of Big Rock and Tower, enabling a more extended, diverse riding experience.
Rider Experiences and Recommendations
- "Fast and flowy downs with many opportunities to launch yourself. Do remember: what goes down must come up."
- "Well-maintained and thought out, Deep Step offers a good mix of climbing and technical areas, punctuated by rewarding downhills."
- "Challenging but not unsurmountable, it’s my new favorite trail at FATS."
The Verdict
Deep Step packs a punch within its 5-mile loop, offering a well-balanced blend of elevations and technical features. Not as demanding as some of the other trails at FATS, yet far from boring, this loop presents a little bit of everything: speed, challenges, and a good dose of adrenaline. Whether you're using it as a connector to other trails or conquering it as a standalone loop, Deep Step is an asset to the FATS network that delivers on both flow and fun.Don't miss out—give Deep Step a go on your next ride.
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