Paris Mountain and Swamp Rabbit Trail Loop
Paris Mountain and Swamp Rabbit Trail Loop
3.3
(9)
63
riders
Paris Mountain and Swamp Rabbit Trail Loop
04:14
66.0km
940m
Road cycling
Prepare for a challenging racebike adventure on the Paris Mountain and Swamp Rabbit Trail Loop, a difficult 41.0 miles (66.0 km) route that demands 3097 feet (944 metres) of climbing. This ride typically takes around 4 hours and 14 minutes to complete. You'll experience a dynamic shift in scenery, starting with the urban charm of downtown Greenville and passing iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bridge at Falls Park. As you continue, the trail leads you through the serene landscapes around Furman University's scenic lake. The latter part of the loop plunges you into a dense canopy of trees on Paris Mountain, where you'll tackle significant ascents and descents, occasionally catching glimpses of downtown Greenville and the distant Blue Ridge Mountains.
When planning your visit, remember that this popular road cycling route offers excellent accessibility. You can find parking readily available at various points along the Swamp Rabbit Trail and within Paris Mountain State Park. The Swamp Rabbit Trail portion provides numerous amenities, including rest stops, cafes, restaurants, and even bike rentals, making it convenient for a day out. While the Paris Mountain section demands good fitness, the overall loop provides a rewarding adventure for cyclists looking for diverse terrain.
This loop uniquely combines two distinct cycling experiences, offering both flat greenway sections and significant mountain climbs. The Swamp Rabbit Trail guides you through varied scenery, from urban settings to serene natural landscapes. Transitioning to Paris Mountain, you'll find yourself under a dense tree canopy, tackling challenging ascents and descents. This diversity makes the route a standout option for cyclists in the region, providing both convenience and a demanding physical challenge.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 2.21 km for 435 m
After 63.5 km for 435 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.32 km
Falls Park
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
3.78 km
Unity Park
Highlight • Rest Area
unityparkgreenville.com/1843/Unity-Park
Tip by
8.44 km
Cone Mill Pond
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
19.4 km
Paris Mountain
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
33.0 km
Paris Mountain State Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
66.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
29.1 km
27.5 km
9.29 km
139 m
Surfaces
54.9 km
7.69 km
3.48 km
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Elevation
Highest point (590 m)
Lowest point (260 m)
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 6 May
24°C
17°C
60 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall difficulty of the Paris Mountain and Swamp Rabbit Trail Loop for road cycling?
This loop is rated as difficult due to the significant elevation changes on Paris Mountain. While the Swamp Rabbit Trail section is mostly flat and easy, the Paris Mountain portion involves substantial climbs with grades up to 10%, requiring good to very good fitness for road cyclists.
What is the terrain like on this cycling loop?
The terrain varies significantly. The Swamp Rabbit Trail is a multi-use path with a smooth, mostly flat asphalt surface. In contrast, the Paris Mountain section consists of paved roads with challenging ascents and descents, including some switchbacks. The road surface on Paris Mountain has been noted as recently paved and smooth.
Where can I park to access the Paris Mountain and Swamp Rabbit Trail Loop?
For the Swamp Rabbit Trail portion, you can find parking in downtown Greenville, such as near Falls Park or Unity Park. Alternatively, you can park at Paris Mountain State Park to start the loop from there, though fees may apply for park entry.
Are dogs allowed on the Paris Mountain and Swamp Rabbit Trail Loop?
Dogs are generally welcome on the Swamp Rabbit Trail, provided they are kept on a leash. Within Paris Mountain State Park, dogs are also permitted on trails and in day-use areas but must be on a leash no longer than six feet. Always ensure to clean up after your pet.
What is the best time of year to cycle this loop?
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, especially on the exposed sections of the Swamp Rabbit Trail, while winter can bring colder temperatures. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for any part of this route?
While there are no permits required for cycling the Swamp Rabbit Trail, there is an entrance fee to access Paris Mountain State Park. Fees typically apply per vehicle or per person, so be prepared to pay upon entry if you plan to start or spend time within the park boundaries.
What landmarks and scenic spots can I see along the way?
The loop offers diverse scenery. Along the Swamp Rabbit Trail, you'll pass through downtown Greenville, including Falls Park and Unity Park, and by Furman University's scenic lake. The Paris Mountain section provides natural beauty with a tree canopy and occasional glimpses of downtown Greenville and the Blue Ridge Mountains, especially near the Paris Mountain summit.
Does this route intersect with other trails?
Yes, the route extensively uses the Swamp Rabbit Trail and also passes through sections of the Mountain Creek Trail, Sulphur Springs Trail, and Turtle Trail within Paris Mountain State Park.
Are there places to stop for food or drinks along the loop?
Yes, the Swamp Rabbit Trail is known for its numerous amenities. It winds through urban areas and towns like Travelers Rest, offering many cafes, restaurants, and rest stops directly along its path or just a short detour away.
How long does it typically take to complete the Paris Mountain and Swamp Rabbit Trail Loop by road bike?
For an average road cyclist, this 66 km (41 mile) loop typically takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete, given the significant elevation gain on Paris Mountain. This duration can vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop.
Is this loop suitable for beginner road cyclists?
The full loop is generally not recommended for beginner road cyclists due to the challenging climbs and descents on Paris Mountain. However, beginners can enjoy the flat and easy sections of the Swamp Rabbit Trail as an out-and-back ride, avoiding the mountain portion.