Distance
97 miles / 156km
Elevation Gain
7,650ft / 2,331m
Caesar's Head
Caesar's Head
#9 on our Great Rides list
Greenville
Caesar’s Head is a favorite ride of George Hincapie, a retired professional cyclist and local Greenville resident and a must ride if you are in South Carolina.
Location
Greenville, South Carolina, USA
Surface
Paved Road
Difficulty
Level 4
Traffic
Level 2
According to Hincapie, this ride “is one of the hardest climbs in the area.” and he often used it to gauge his fitness as he prepared for his 17-Tour de France participations.
The first 4-miles of the climb has a good steady gradient followed by a short reprieve, finishing with a steeper 2-miles section to the summit. The reward for conquering this challenging climb comes from the overlook at the summit of Caesar’s Head State Park, featuring breathtaking views of Table Rock State Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Keep a watchful eye out for some pro cyclists and junior development squads training in the early spring.
What you need to know
Ride details
The climb has pretty well maintained pavement and light traffic for most of the year. Traffic increases with the arrival of the fall foliage in October which attracts lots of folks who come to see the dramatic colored leaves in this massive deciduous forest. The top of the climb is at about mile 33, but you climbing isn’t over yet. While the climb up to Ceasars Head summit is the toughest climb, you’ll still have 64 miles and about 4,000ft left to ride to get back to Greenville, unless you choose to do the ride as an out and back.
Weather
Spring and Fall are definitely the best times tackle Caesar’s Head. Much of the climb is in a canopy of trees which offers good protection from the summer sun but it can get incredibly humid in the summer. Late spring and early fall you will get more variable weather but more comfortable humidity and less traffic. It is generally at least 10 degrees cooler at the summit, so make sure to pack layers.
Fuel
The Mountain House Restaurant just before the summit is a great place to refuel for lunch featuring sandwiches, salads, ice cream and homemade fudge. The visitor center at the top has coffee, water and snacks available, along with a fireplace to warm up before the descent on colder days.
While you’re in town
There are tons of bike shops in Greenville which off bike rentals and plenty of gear to prepare you for the Ceasars head ride! Aside from excellent road biking, Greenville boast a plethora of other activities. Hike one of the hundreds of trails in surrounding state parks, white water rafting, waterfall tours or horse back riding. Greenville truly has it all!
Greenville is quickly becoming known as a “foodie” paradise. There are over 600 restaurants in Greenville (yes, 600!) with an enticing and diverse collection of dining experiences and cuisines ranging from traditional, to global, to downright eclectic.
Ready for Caesar's Head?
Book early and save. We reward our guests with lower pricing and more dates to choose from the earlier you book. Rest assured, once you book, your price is guaranteed.