292 GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 
Let them commence at the Limestone Springs, where a day or two may be pleasantly spent in 
visiting Gilkey’s Mountain, from the top of which there is a fine view, and in examining the iron 
works. Some of the islands in the river must also be examined. Crossing the river, and proceed- 
ing up the mountain, on the York side, till they reach its peak, just over the North Carolina line; 
where, looking from the ruggid top of that fearful escarpment, a scene will present itself, not readily 
to be forgotten. Returning by way of the Battle-ground, a simple stone will be found, recording 
the names and marking the resting places of the brave, who fell on the side of Liberty. From 
this, Broad River must be re-crossed, to the Cowpens, where relics of the strife of that field may 
yet be picked up. At and near the furnace there are many picturesque spots, as well as a cha- 
lybeate spring. Proceeding westward, till Hog-back, Glassy, and some of the peaks.of the Saluda 
mountains are seen lifting their sublime forms above the horizon, in the gray distance, no better 
guides will be wanted till the base of Glassy is reached. ‘Taking an obscure path from the road, if 
the tourists have sure-footed horses they may ride to the top; if not,it must be accomplished on 
foot. This should be early in the morning, for many a temptation to linger will be presented, in 
the shady dells and other beautiful spots on the way upwards. Many a sparkling, playful little 
stream will beckon them from their path, to witness its daring leap, as it starts on its downward 
journey to its great home, the ocean. 
In the midst of the pleasant thoughts that will occupy them here, they must not startle that the 
first sign of man’s presence, in this lonely place, should be a distillery; for the next person they meet 
will demonstrate that it was the only means of condensing the crop, so that it may be sufficiently 
portable to be carried to market, where there are no roads. 
From the top of the mountain the view is beautiful. The distance to Hodge’s is but short; and 
here a week ora fortnight must be spent. ‘The falls of the Saluda, three or four hundred feet 
in height, are almost in sight, and scarcely a rivulet that meanders among the Rododendrons that 
does not present a little picture of its own, well worth the finding. After they have examined this 
place to the right and left, if they do not heartily pity those who pass, with rail-road speed, through 
this wonderful gap, I am greatly mistaken. 
Our ramblers will next ascend to Poinsett’s Spring, where I am sure they will admire the good 
taste and simple beauty of that fountain; and if they have walked up, they will bless the man that 
was thus mindful of the way-worn traveller. Mr. Burton, at the toll-gate, will conduct them to the 
top of Walnut Mountain. Of the scene that presents itself here, I can only say that if, after behold- 
ing it, they do not return more humble and better men, they need proceed no farther. 
After spending a few days here, the,base of the Saluda Mountains must been circled, to the south 
prong of Saluda, where, at an old mill, close to the mountain side, they will be repaid for the journey 
across, by the sight of a water fall of great beauty, brought out against the dark shadows of the hem- 
locks that overhang the banks. The journey, between this and Ceesar’s Head, is not wanting in in- 
terest and beautiful views. From the top of the Head, every one knows how magnificent is 
the scene, but it is at sunset, when Table Rock stands out against its glorious back ground of 
mountains, that it is most impressive. 
The distance to Table Rock is but a few hours’ ride. On the way, our travellers may amuse 
themselves with reflections on the stupenduous force that severed at this point the mountain, 
leaving Czesai’s Head and Table Rock, fit monuments to attest the event. 
