The Palmetto State is known for some pretty spectacular roadside oddities but what about trail side spectacles? Let’s take a look at the Medusa Tree in South Carolina. This curious tree is essentially one of a kind and is one of those natural spots to pause and pose for a photo when you visit.

The easiest way to find the Medusa Tree is to head to Falls Park on the Reedy in Greenville.

Google/tracie sanchez Below the falls and across the bridge of the fingerling shoot of the Reedy River, the Medusa Tree is right on the sidewalk hundreds walk each day while exploring the park.

It’s also part of the Swamp Rabbit Trail that runs through the park. Bikers, runners, and walkers alike can’t help but stop for a selfie or to pose in front of Medusa Tree.

Google/Christine Myers And it’s easy to see why!

Named affectionately for Greek mythology’s Medusa, one of three dreadful Gorgon women described best as winged human-like beings with snakes for hair, Medusa Tree may look akin to Medusa but rest assured there’s nothing dreadful about it.

Wikipedia/Arnold Böcklin

Clinging to the hillside that’s washed away, Medusa Tree appears to have traded places with the earth that used to hold its roots intact and is, instead, now holding the earth in place behind the roots.

Google/Lee Davidson

Some estimates place Medusa Tree at about 75 years old.

Google/Pete Pantsari In spite of having no earth to shield such a large part of her roots, she lives on.

Won’t you be seeking it out the next time you’re in Greenville to have a look for yourself?

Google/Mahari Marzan

Did you know about this Medusa Tree in South Carolina? Have a pic you snapped and want to share it? Head over to our South Carolina Nature Lovers group on Facebook and let us see it!

Google/tracie sanchez

Below the falls and across the bridge of the fingerling shoot of the Reedy River, the Medusa Tree is right on the sidewalk hundreds walk each day while exploring the park.

Google/Christine Myers

And it’s easy to see why!

Wikipedia/Arnold Böcklin

Google/Lee Davidson

Google/Pete Pantsari

In spite of having no earth to shield such a large part of her roots, she lives on.

Google/Mahari Marzan

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Address: Falls Park on the Reedy, 601 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, USA