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Best difficult hiking trails in South Carolina
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Best difficult hiking trails in South Carolina

Got your game face on? These difficult trails are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure...

Here are some great trails to explore in South Carolina.

Most popular trails

1

Difficult

The Stool via Carolina Climbers Coalition Trail

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (69) · 4.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 40 min

2

Difficult

Natural Bridge, Raven Rock and McKinney Mountain Loop Trail

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (81) · 6.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 47 min

3

Difficult

Naturaland Trust Trail from Caesars Head Mountain

Greenville County, South Carolina · star 5.0 (63) · 19.5 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

4

Difficult

Rim of the Gap Trail and Jones Gap Trail Loop

Greenville County, South Carolina · star 5.0 (77) · 15.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 21 min

5

Difficult

Table Rock, Pinnacle Mountain and Foothills Loop Trail

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (79) · 17.3 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

6

Difficult

Pinnacle Mountain

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (106) · 13.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 53 min

7

Difficult

Table Rock Trail

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 5.0 (98) · 11.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 18 min

8

Difficult

Rim of the Gap, Little Pinnacle Mountain and Pinnacle Pass Loop Trail

Greenville County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (78) · 9.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 47 min

9

Difficult

Pinnacle Pass Trail via Little Pinnacle Mountain

Greenville County, South Carolina · star 5.0 (73) · 14.2 km · Est. 4 hrs 13 min

10

Difficult

Cane Creek and Isaqueena Falls

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (77) · 440 m · Est. 9 min

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Reviews for hiking trails in South Carolina

Olen Cole avatar

The Stool via Carolina Climbers Coalition Trail

HollowHiker92 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Randy Kiehn Esq. avatar

Natural Bridge, Raven Rock and McKinney Mountain Loop Trail

ShorelineWildtracker43 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Hiedi Moore V avatar

Naturaland Trust Trail from Caesars Head Mountain

CrestRambler36 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Christian Reinger avatar

Rim of the Gap Trail and Jones Gap Trail Loop

FrostNavigator47 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Tod Gibson LLD avatar

Table Rock, Pinnacle Mountain and Foothills Loop Trail

HollowSpruceseeker96 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions

What is the climate like for hiking in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, winters are mild and summers hot. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are the best seasons to hike, with mild temperatures and beautiful landscapes. Always keep in mind the sudden rain showers in spring. Visit South Carolina's official tourism site for more.
Summers (July to August) are hot and humid, not ideal for hiking. Still, coastal areas offer a pleasant breeze. Check weather updates regularly and stay hydrated.
Winter (December to February) is mild, but trails in mountain areas may get icy. Layer your clothes, watch for weather warnings, and take necessary precautions.

Do I need a permit to hike in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, most hiking trails don't require permits. However, state park fees may apply. For backpacking in wilderness areas, check specific requirements with the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. Visit their official site for detailed information.

Is wild camping allowed in South Carolina?

Wild camping in South Carolina is typically permitted in state forests and some state parks with certain restrictions. It's advised to check regulations with specific parks. Backcountry camping is also allowed with a permit in some areas. Visit the official site for more information.

Are there mountain rescue services in South Carolina?

In case of an emergency while hiking in South Carolina, dial 911. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) is responsible for coordinating statewide emergency response. They work closely with county emergency services. More information can be found on the SCEMD website.

Are there dangerous plants in South Carolina?

South Carolina's diverse habitats host varied flora. Coastal hikes reveal live oaks, Spanish moss, and saw palmetto, while the Mountain Region's forests bloom with rhododendrons, mountain laurels, and ferns. Check out South Carolina's State Parks website for specific locations' flora details.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in South Carolina?

From alligators in coastal wetlands to white-tailed deer in mountain forests, South Carolina's fauna varies with the terrain. Watch out for venomous snakes and mosquitos. Be informed about wildlife in hiking areas using the https://scdhec.gov/health/insects-animals website.

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