Justin Winter's Carolina Lake and Mountain Blog

22nd Annual Blue Ridge Fest

The Blue Ridge Fest is almost here! This charity event will be held Friday, May 3rd at Blue Ridge Electric on West Main Street of Pickens, South Carolina. This Upstate event combines fantastic live entertainment, good food, and a classic car cruise-in for a truly memorable and wonderful experience. This will be the 22nd annual… Read more »

Mariner’s Compass Quilt Block in Pickens

The Pickens Visitor Center, which opened in November of 2018, now displays a quilt block. These quilt blocks may be found all along the Upstate of South Carolina. To read more about the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail, click here. This particular quilt square is the Mariner’s Compass design, which dates back to 1726 when it… Read more »

Shoreline Buffers along our Lakes

For those who enjoy the beautiful blue and clear waters of Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee, we must understand and appreciate the role that shoreline vegetation and buffers play. Plant life along the shoreline of a lake provides much more than just a natural look. In addition to the aesthetic appeal, this vegetation protects the… Read more »

The ’55 Exchange of Clemson

With these days that are warming up with the sun shinning down, what could be better that getting a delicious ice cream? Knowing that with every scoop, you are helping local college students and their academic and professional training! The ’55 Exchange of Clemson is a student-run business that sells Clemson’s renowned ice cream, shakes,… Read more »

Annual Oconee Bell Fest

It is that wonderful time of year once again for the Annual Oconee Bell Fest! The celebration of the very rare Oconee Bell wildflower will be held at Devils Fork State Park on Saturday, March 16th from 10am to 3pm. This delicate bell-shaped flower is only found in the most isolated places in the southern… Read more »

Public Art of Greenville, SC!

So many reasons to visit Greenville, South Carolina but regardless of what attracts you, be sure you look out for the numerous original pieces of art that honor and celebrate Greenville and the American spirit. Whether it makes your smile or is thought provoking, we are sure there is something for all to enjoy. Even… Read more »

New Sweet Shop on South Main in Greenville – River Street Sweets!

One of Savannah, Georgia’s staples in sweet treats and delicious goodies has recently opened a store in Downtown Greenville, South Carolina! River Street Sweets at 12 S. Main Street in Greenville, South Carolina held their grand opening this month. Holding true to the feel of the original store’s opening in the 1970’s in Savannah, this… Read more »