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Best waterfall hikes in South Carolina
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Best waterfall hikes in South Carolina

If the calming sound of cascading water fills your soul with joy, you're in for a treat.

Here are some great hikes to explore in South Carolina.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Lower Whitewater Falls Trail and Foothills Trail

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.6 (80) · 13.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 37 min

2

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

3

Medium

Table Rock, Carrick Creek and Foothills Loop Trail

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.5 (93) · 3.1 km · Est. 49 min

4

Medium

Lake Placid, Sulphur Springs Trail and North Lake Loop

Greenville County, South Carolina · star 4.5 (63) · 16.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 22 min

5

Easy

Forty Acre Rock Loop

Lancaster County, South Carolina · star 4.4 (77) · 3.2 km · Est. 45 min

6

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

7

Medium

Wildcat Wayside Nature Loop Trail

Greenville County, South Carolina · star 4.5 (85) · 1.6 km · Est. 25 min

8

Medium

Twin Falls Trail

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.5 (75) · 3.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 1 min

9

Easy

Foothills Trail - Wiginton Road

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.5 (83) · 2.1 km · Est. 29 min

10

Medium

Eastatoe Creek via Foothills Trail

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

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Reviews for waterfall hikes in South Carolina

Ji Bechtelar avatar

Lower Whitewater Falls Trail and Foothills Trail

ValleyCairntracker75 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Darrin Dickinson avatar

Table Rock and Hickorynut Mountain from Sassafras Mountain

HarborExpeditioner51 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Charley Jerde avatar

Table Rock, Carrick Creek and Foothills Loop Trail

TrailSummiter90 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

avatar

Lake Placid, Sulphur Springs Trail and North Lake Loop

GorgeMeadowwalker60 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Rickey Rempel avatar

Forty Acre Rock Loop

AspenAspenseeker93 · reviewed over 1 year 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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