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The small mountain community of Sunset, South Carolina, is one of the most scenic and tranquil corners of Pickens County, located near the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains and within a short distance of the North Carolina border. The region's earliest history is tied to the Cherokee Nation, whose people lived among the foothills and valleys, relying on the area's rivers, forests, and fertile soil. The Oolenoy and Keowee Cherokee settlements were located nearby, and the pathways they carved through the mountains later became routes for European settlers. After the American Revolution, land grants opened the area to new settlers of Scots-Irish and English descent, who established farms along creeks and ridgelines. The community that would become Sunset grew slowly throughout the 19th century, supported by agriculture, logging, and small-scale trading.

By the late 1800s and early 1900s, the rugged terrain of Sunset began to attract a different kind of interest—wealthy families and outdoor enthusiasts drawn by the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge foothills. The construction of rail lines through Pickens County and improvements to mountain roads made the area more accessible. As people from cities like Greenville and Atlanta sought summer retreats in the mountains, Sunset became known for its sweeping vistas and cool climate. It was during this time that the community acquired its poetic name, inspired by the breathtaking sunsets over the ridgelines that framed the horizon.

Agriculture remained the foundation of Sunset's economy through much of the 20th century, with farmers cultivating corn, beans, and fruit while raising cattle and poultry. The surrounding forests supported a thriving timber industry, and local mills processed lumber for building materials. When Lake Keowee was constructed in the late 1960s by Duke Power to generate hydroelectric power and provide water for nearby cities, the region underwent significant change. The reservoir brought both recreational opportunities and new development, attracting residents and visitors interested in boating, fishing, and lakefront living. Roads such as SC Highway 11, known as the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway, enhanced access to Sunset and became a draw for tourists exploring the natural landmarks of the Upstate.

Sunset's community character has always reflected a blend of rugged independence and mountain hospitality. Despite its small size, it has long been home to churches, family-owned businesses, and generations of families who value its peace and natural surroundings. Local events and traditions celebrate mountain crafts, outdoor life, and community pride. The proximity of state parks such as Keowee-Toxaway and Devils Fork, as well as the Jocassee Gorges Wilderness Area, has made Sunset a gateway to some of South Carolina's most prized natural destinations. In recent decades, the area has also attracted retirees and professionals seeking an escape from urban life while remaining within driving distance of Greenville and Clemson.

Today, Sunset is known as one of the Upstate's most picturesque and desirable residential communities. Its location near Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee offers exceptional access to outdoor recreation, while the surrounding mountains provide panoramic views and a serene atmosphere. Many new homes, cabins, and luxury lake properties have been built in and around the area, blending modern comfort with rustic charm. The community continues to balance growth with preservation, maintaining its identity as a peaceful haven for nature lovers, outdoor adventurers, and families seeking a slower pace of life. In Sunset, history and landscape combine to create a timeless sense of place—one defined by natural beauty, community spirit, and enduring Southern character.