A peaceful stream, shady woods, and a brand-new trail connection—all tucked away in the middle of Clemson.

What if we told you there’s a little walking trail in Clemson that feels more like a mountain getaway than a neighborhood park? It’s true! And you don’t have to drive into the mountains to find it.

Just off Berkeley Drive, behind Ashley Dearing Park, you’ll discover Tottie’s Place, a peaceful wooded trail that follows a beautiful little stream. With shady trees, the sound of flowing water, and pedestrian bridges along the way, it’s the kind of spot that makes you forget you’re right in the middle of town.

It’s also one of those places that plenty of Clemson residents may have driven past dozens of times without realizing what’s hiding just beyond the road.

Two Trails, One Great Little Adventure

Tottie’s Place has been a quiet neighborhood treasure for years, but now there’s even more reason to visit.

The City of Clemson recently completed the Ashley Dearing Outfield Trail, a new paved loop around the park’s baseball field that connects with the existing park and trail area.

Together, the two loops offer approximately three-quarters of a mile of walking, rolling, and exploring.

That may not sound like a long distance, but there’s plenty to enjoy along the way. You can wander beside the stream, cross pedestrian bridges, enjoy the shade, or stop to explore the little lending library and educational activities for kids.

And because the trails connect with Ashley Dearing Park, you’ve also got a playground, restrooms, and baseball fields nearby.

It’s a great option for families with young children, neighbors looking for a quick walk, or anyone who wants a little fresh air without traveling far from home.

Bring Your Walking Shoes (and Maybe Your Four-Legged Sidekick!)

Want to see what makes this spot special?

We recently took a little tour of the trails with our four-legged friend Angel, who was happy to help us explore!

Not on Facebook? You can also watch the video on YouTube or Instagram.

If you’d like to check it out for yourself, start at Ashley Dearing Park on Berkeley Drive in Clemson. There’s parking at the park, and we recommend entering Tottie’s Place through the gate nearby.

From there, take your time. Listen to the stream, enjoy the trees, and discover a little corner of Clemson you might not have known existed.

Small Trails, Bigger Connections

Here’s something else to get excited about: these trails are part of a much bigger picture.

Plans call for Tottie’s Place and the Ashley Dearing Outfield Trail to connect with the new Berkeley Orchard trails and Berkeley Drive Green Crescent Trail by early 2027.

That means even more opportunities for residents to walk, bike, and move between neighborhoods and community destinations without always needing to get in a car.

And that’s what we’re all about at Green Crescent Trail.

A connected trail network isn’t built all at once. It grows one segment, one neighborhood, and one connection at a time. Sometimes those connections are big, highly visible projects. Other times, they’re quiet little paths tucked behind a park that make everyday life just a bit better.

Both matter.

We’re grateful to the City of Clemson for continuing to invest in places that make our community more walkable, bikeable, and enjoyable for everyone.

Have You Discovered This Hidden Gem?

If you’ve never visited Tottie’s Place or the new Ashley Dearing Outfield Trail, consider this your invitation!

Grab a friend, bring the family, or leash up your favorite walking buddy and explore.

And if you’re already familiar with these trails, we’d love to hear what you think. What’s your favorite little-known place to walk in the Clemson-Central-Pendleton area?

There might be another hidden gem waiting for us to discover.