South Carolina is a scenic state hiding a treasure trove of natural wonders. From mountain terrains to sandy shores, there’s a panorama for all wilderness lovers to be discovered right here, and of course, this includes some amazing South Carolina waterfalls!
The upstate region is wealthy with gorgeous waterfalls galore and heading to one is likely considered one of the most romantic things to do in South Carolina. There are greater than one hundred waterfalls throughout the upcountry space, each with their very own enchanting attract.
Get ready for an incredible journey of the state’s secret speeding cascades, we’ve compiled the best waterfalls in South Carolina beneath.
Beautiful Waterfalls in South Carolina to Visit
Bee Cove Falls
Bee Cove Falls is positioned near the quaint South Carolina city of Mountain Rest in Sumter National Forest. The hike to get there’s a little over 4 miles out and again and a bit off the crushed path in the backcountry. It’s a moderate level of problem and the falls stand tall at 80 toes high.
The cascades themselves are multi-tiered, with a steep preliminary flow separating into many alternative streams on the base for a dramatic effect. The dense forest terrain is a superb way to explore the distant and pristine wilderness of South Carolina.
Brasstown Falls
Brasstown Falls are additionally found in Sumter National Park and is among the finest waterfalls in SC. This waterfall is actually divided into three totally different drops, offering many opportunities to enjoy their breathtaking beauty. The trek here is short but steep and the trail could be very narrow at points.
The impressive higher falls, the principle namesake of the trio, are about 50 ft tall. The lower falls, whereas only 15 ft, end in an ethereal basin that’s best for taking a refreshing swim.
Lower Whitewater Falls
These immense falls are part of a sequence of cascades deemed the best within the east of the country, set near Salem, South Carolina. Lower Whitewater Falls drops down 200 ft into the jaw dropping Jocassee Gorges. To attain the observation deck overlooking this pure marvel, it’s about two miles down a spur trail every means.
The highly effective rush of water plunges over the jagged rock face for a sight you won’t soon neglect. Its bigger brother, the Upper Whitewater Falls, really lies throughout the state border in North Carolina.
Spoonauger Falls
An adventure to Spoonauger Falls offers minimal effort and maximum pay off, maing it probably the greatest waterfalls in SC to go to. Nestled in a lush green hillside, the encircling scenery of those falls is definitely worth the journey alone. This South Carolina hike is just about half of a mile and the falls are around 50 toes excessive, flowing down a stepped rocky facade.
The base culminates in shallow waters covering flat rock, good for wading in to chill off. It’s set in Mountain Rest within Sumter National Park. You’re sure to get the best photo op for your feed at Spoonauger Falls.
Twin Falls
These South Carolina waterfalls supply a shocking two for one special. Reedy Creek splits off to kind double cascades rushing over massive granite cliffs. They are around seventy five toes tall, though the left offers a barely higher drop. The trail is straightforward and accessible, lower than half a mile out and again.
Wander downstream a bit and uncover a small natural slide empties into an idyllic swimming gap. The views here are simply spectacular as it’s one of the best waterfalls in South Carolina.
King Creek Falls
King Creek Falls is situated in Sumter National Park near Laurel Creek. It’s a short and easy mile long hike to reach. These Chattanooga River cascades are 70 feet tall and circulate down mossy boulders into a semicircle lined in laurel.
One of the main draws is the small sandy beach you’ll be able to enjoy at the basin for a scenic and enjoyable respite. There are plenty of opportunities for more outside journey right here as nicely, from fishing to kayaking to longer treks.
Issaqueena Falls
The subject of many myths and mysteries, the Issaqueena Falls possesses a particular kind of allure. The trek is extremely brief, at underneath a third of a mile, so this is a magnificent cease if you’re brief on time. The falls have a drop of over 200 ft and can be seen from a wonderfully placed pavilion above them.
If you’re on the lookout for extra of an adventure, you can trek all the method down to the base of the wondrous waterfall on a steep and narrow trail. Issaqueena Falls are really a breathtaking sight to behold.
Raven Cliff Falls
It’s a strenuous journey to reach Raven Cliff Falls, an adventure not for the faint of coronary heart to say the least. It’s the tallest waterfall in South Carolina, and as such, is often a popular pick. It’s a 400-foot drop, making for a marvelous feat to see.
It’s named for the notable native inhabitants of ravens that make their properties right here. Over 150 species have been recognized simply inside this region, see how many you presumably can spot on your sojourn. The trail is a bit over two miles long and presents loads of spectacular panoramas of those monumental and enchanting falls.
Falls Creek Falls
GPS LocationFalls Creek is a incredible haven for waterfalls, offering an opportunity to see three multi functional spot. They’re all situated inside the majestic Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. Two trails traverse both aspect of those cascades, one shorter however much steeper and the other a bit over 5 miles lengthy and still fairly rugged.
The major falls are 125 ft tall, with two others alongside the way reaching heights of 30 and 40 ft. Be ready for a strenuous sojourn, although it’s nicely value it.
Rainbow Falls
The Rainbow Falls are found in Jones Gap State Park. The elevation gain on this hike is 1,000 feet for one and a half miles. It’s no joke, however pleasant nonetheless. It’s an easy day journey from Greenville, about a 45-minute drive. Sparkling water plummets powerfully into a beautiful pool under over rocky steps a hundred ft excessive.
In the decrease portion of the mist radiating from the speeding falls of Cox Camp Creek, you can usually spot a surprising rainbow when hit by the daylight. It’s a magical second to experience, and a picturesque place for excellent photographs. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the pools of cool water below or pack a picnic to absorb the sights.
Laurel Fork Falls
The best method to entry the Laurel Fork Falls is by boat over the stunning Lake Jocassee. Make your method into the moon-shaped grotto behind the towering rocks for an unforgettable vista of the falls. The various is an extremely strenuous eight mile hike. This trail traverses many wooden stairs all through with plenty of elevation change as properly.
It’s ensconced in a verdant mountain side and boasts an attractive 80 foot drop. As it may be difficult to get to, it’s often less crowded than another waterfalls on this record. You can even go for a swim within the cool, crystal clear waters as a much wanted reward upon arrival.
Lee Falls
Often referred to as some of the scenic waterfalls in Oconee County, Lee Falls is ready deep within the hardwood forest of Tamasee, South Carolina. The route is three miles long out and back, on a relatively rugged path, however heading right here is one of the best things to do in South Carolina. It’s not an official trail, and though it begins off simply enough, it turns into steep and rocky as you get nearer to the falls.
You’ll likely encounter a number of stream crossings as properly. They’re seventy five ft excessive and a well-liked pick amongst locals and guests alike. It’s greatest to visit after heavy rain, as the cascade might be that a lot more spectacular.
Yellow Branch Falls
These falls are positioned near Walhalla in Sumter National Forest, on a 3 mile spherical trip trek. They’re a small however mighty waterfall, at 50 feet tall. This journey will take you thru an attractive hardwood forest and is a moderate degree of issue.
There are many vantage points from which to benefit from the surroundings here, we especially recommend strolling up the massive boulder throughout from the creek for ravishing vistas. Multiple cascades stream down the jagged cliffs right here, creating an enchanting experience.
Blue Hole Falls
Named for the deep pool at the base of the beautiful 75 foot falls, Blue Hole is a must out of all the best waterfalls in South Carolina. You will traverse dense forest that provides serene seclusion and unmatched peace and quiet.
It’s a moderate hike that entails some scrambling in the gorge and a few crossing of the lazily flowing Cedar Creek. However, it’s solely half a mile lengthy. Enjoy views from above and at the end of the falls, and make sure to pack a swimsuit to enjoy a dip down under.
Carrick Creek Falls
This is considered one of the most accessible falls you can see in the whole state. The trail is a mere 0.2 miles long on a paved pathway in Table Creek State Park. The cascade is 15 feet tall and provides a big swimming gap at its base.
Anyone can enjoy the serene beauty awaiting right here with none strenuous exercise to get there. On this quick trek you probably can encounter primarily oak hickory forest and some scattered pines and hemlock.
Cedar Falls
Image by David Hill from flickr / Best Waterfalls In South CarolinaThe Cedar Falls come at the uniquely broad point of Reedy River the place it stretches out some 200 toes throughout each banks. The sheer quantity of water dashing over this short 15 ft tall break in the waterway is a surprisingly beautiful sight to see, and it’s a quick walk along a paved trail to take pleasure in them.
It’s set simply above Blue Hole Falls and it’s easy sufficient to increase your trek about one other half mile to include each of these fantastic waterfalls.
Wildcat Wayside Falls
Image by Bill Herndon from flicker / Best Waterfalls In South CarolinaAlso known as Wildcat Branch Falls, this roadside cease presents some easy and exquisite viewing. Its 30-foot drop may be seen from the freeway, however we suggest stopping to soak up the environment up close. The trail will take you to the upper and decrease elements of these cascades on a simple mile-long loop.
During the wet season of South Carolina, it’s a easy however spectacular falls that has a wading pool at its base. There are three different falls to come across in the Greenville Wayside Park should you also wish to discover extra.
Station Cove Falls
Set within the scenic Appalachian Cove Forest, it is a favourite hike amongst these in the know. It’s particularly in style within the spring when all the wildflowers begin to bloom. Regardless of the season the wilderness here is absolutely idyllic. It’s a one and a half mile out and again trail that is nice for any skill degree.
It starts off at Oconee Station Historic Site, which provides a bit of additional heritage and intrigue to the adventure. The falls are about 50 ft high and a delightful destination to find.
Moonshine Falls
These hidden falls could be onerous to search out as they’re not on any marked trail; it’s located in the Greenville space, in Cleveland, SC. There are a few methods to navigate this adventure, with four completely different paths around the falls varying in size and problem.
The upper portion offers a secret cave that also holds some surprises leftover from the moonshine era of South Carolina, hence the name. Here you probably can even walk behind the highly effective plunging stream of falling water, a rare possibility for most waterfalls that you’ll discover.
Double Falls (Virginia Hawkins Falls)
Double Falls, also called Virginia Hawkins Falls, are situated in the lush Laurel Park Heritage Preserve. Only 25 ft high, the surrounding landscape provides a lot to the exceptional great factor about this small stature waterfall.
It’s a three-mile spherical trip journey to arrive right here via an exciting array of terrains. You’ll encounter rare plant species, an abundance of aquatic life within the creek, and a various range of bird species as properly. It’s a fairytale forest stuffed with streams, hardwoods, and tulip poplars. The water pours down moss-covered granite outcrops for a dreamy vacation spot general.
Beautiful Waterfalls in South Carolina map