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Best forest hiking trails in South Carolina
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Best forest hiking trails in South Carolina

Need a nature reset? These forest hikes will immerse you in a sea of greenery, where the air is crisp, the ground is soft, and every step feels like a magical woodland escape.

Here are some great trails to explore in South Carolina.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Old Waterwheel Loop Trail

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (86) · 2.4 km · Est. 38 min

2

Medium

Hidden Falls and Foothills Trail

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (90) · 7.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 51 min

3

Medium

Tamassee Knob Trail

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (74) · 6.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 41 min

4

Easy

Saluda River - Saluda Shoals Park

Lexington County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (90) · 2.8 km · Est. 34 min

5

Medium

Horse Pasture Road Walk

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (93) · 172 m · Est. 3 min

6

Easy

North Augusta Greeneway

Aiken County, South Carolina · star 5.0 (87) · 20.6 km · Est. 4 hrs 16 min

7

Easy

Issaqueena Lake, Collarbone Trail and Dam Road Loop

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 5.0 (74) · 7.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 44 min

8

Easy

Saluda River Shore Walk - Dolly Cooper Park

Anderson County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (72) · 1.4 km · Est. 19 min

9

Difficult

The Stool via Carolina Climbers Coalition Trail

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

10

Easy

Marrington Plantation Loop Trail

Berkeley County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (71) · 21.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 30 min

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Reviews for forest hiking trails in South Carolina

Josephine Thompson avatar

Old Waterwheel Loop Trail

CragWanderer87 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Kevin Blair avatar

Hidden Falls and Foothills Trail

Timberwolf · reviewed 20 days ago

star star star star star

Rated as easy and for the most part it is. When you get about 1 mile before the waterfall a lot of deadfall that has torn up the trail and there some hills and areas that have washed away on the hills. I would probably classify this trail as easy to moderate so folks would understand this is not just a flat trail.

Gov. Thanh Cremin avatar

Tamassee Knob Trail

MapleSnowwalker13 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Joann Rutherford avatar

Saluda River - Saluda Shoals Park

RangePathfinder10 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Hiedi Moore V avatar

Horse Pasture Road Walk

CrestRambler36 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in South Carolina

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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