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Best backpacking hikes in South Carolina
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Best backpacking hikes in South Carolina

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in South Carolina.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Table Rock and Hickorynut Mountain from Sassafras Mountain

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.5 (67) · 14.7 km · Est. 3 hrs 52 min

2

Medium

Foothills Trail to Gear Gap Campsite

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.6 (71) · 18.2 km · Est. 4 hrs 45 min

3

Easy

Hickorynut Mountain and Pinnacle Mountain via Foothills Trail

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.6 (88) · 15.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 36 min

4

Medium

Thompson River and Coley Creek

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.5 (58) · 25.3 km · Est. 6 hrs 34 min

5

Easy

Kings Mountain National Recreation Loop Trail from Lake Crawford

York County, South Carolina · star 4.4 (81) · 24.5 km · Est. 5 hrs 37 min

6

Medium

Eastatoe Creek via Foothills Trail

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.5 (59) · 15.5 km · Est. 4 hrs 21 min

7

Medium

Hickorynut Mountain and Pinnacle Mountain via Ridge Trail

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.4 (67) · 31.3 km · Est. 2 days

8

Medium

Foothills - Chattooga Trail

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.6 (90) · 24.7 km · Est. 5 hrs 57 min

9

Easy

East Fork and Foothills Loop Trail

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.4 (61) · 14.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 32 min

10

Medium

Sassafras Mountain via Foothills Trail

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.7 (93) · 13.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 47 min

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in South Carolina

Darrin Dickinson avatar

Table Rock and Hickorynut Mountain from Sassafras Mountain

HarborExpeditioner51 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Gov. Thanh Cremin avatar

Foothills Trail to Gear Gap Campsite

MapleSnowwalker13 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Toby Kub avatar

Hickorynut Mountain and Pinnacle Mountain via Foothills Trail

FrostMountaineer41 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Roman Lang avatar

Thompson River and Coley Creek

SeekerTrekker68 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Kermit Green Sr. avatar

Kings Mountain National Recreation Loop Trail from Lake Crawford

PebbleFootstep27 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes 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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