6 Easy Waterfall Hikes in Upstate South Carolina
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The Upstate South Carolina region is home to dozens of scenic waterfalls. I didn’t know really anything about this area before relocating across the country from Tucson. After hiking in the desert for years on end, it was fun to change up the scenery and explore the lush forests of the Blue Ridge region.
The best part of all is that most of these waterfall hikes within this region are quite short and easy. Some can even be viewed via the road. While visiting Greenville, you will want to take the time to explore some of these gorgeous falls, most of which are conveniently located within an hour or so from the city.
While living in the area, I explored these incredible falls at least 3 weekends out of every month. It’s hard to travel elsewhere when you are surrounded by such beauty. My guide includes 5 falls which are easily accessible, extremely scenic, and really easy in terms of intensity. I have included one roadside beauty for those unable to hike. I recommend adding at least 1 or 2 to your Upstate SC bucket list.
1. Wildcat Branch Falls
Highlight: Roadside (no hike required)
Location: 5325 Geer Hwy Cleveland (free to park, small lot)
Wildcat Branch Falls is one of the amazing roadside options in this state. It’s an easy 20 minute drive north of Greenville on SC 11, aka Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway. This drive is really scenic, especially during the fall months.
Surprisingly, this beauty receives little traffic despite its’ convenient location right off the highway, and thus, maintains a tranquil nature, especially during the cooler months. I’ve rarely seen more than a few people at a time and if you choose to complete the small trail here, you will notice an even bigger drop in crowds.
Although not very tall (about 20-30 ft), the volume and intensity of the waterfall makes it just as majestic as some of the larger ones in the area. Plus, it is so easy to get to, requires no hiking, and therefore, is accessible to pretty much anyone willing/able to drive.
If you are up for a small adventure, you can enjoy a relatively easy 1 mile nature trek out to the beautiful 100 foot upper falls. I totally recommend adding on this hike if you have the time and ability.
Check out a few more of my favorite roadside falls near Greenville & Asheville.
Extra bonus: This waterfall is conveniently on the same route to numerous natural attractions including Caesars Head (featuring a leafy hike to the state’s tallest waterfall) & Jones Gap State Park. Both of these parks are home to incredible hiking trails, waterfalls, and leaf peeping in the fall months.
2. Reedy Cove (Twin Falls)
Highlight: One of the region’s only double waterfalls
Location: State Rd S-39-92 and Water Falls Rd. Sunset (Free parking)
Twin Falls is a set of beautiful cascading waterfalls which join together, with a mesmerizing height near 75 feet. This hike is very deserted, so much so that the forest takes on an eerie nature. I was almost nervous on this one due to the super secluded setting, and kind of afraid I might see a bear. If you love solitude, you will enjoy this short hike through the wilderness. This one is just really stunning – double falls are pretty rare so definitely get out here while you can.
The hike to the observing deck is just 10 minutes or so (about a quarter of a mile). Because this trail is never overly crowded, it’s easy to take great pictures here versus the more popular waterfalls where you sometimes have to wait upwards of 15-20 minutes to take your photo.
To make your drive more worthwhile, consider a sidetrip to nearby Table Rock State Park in Pickens, or Lake Jocassee, a popular daytrip destination for hiking, boating, picnicking, and exploring waterfalls.
3. Reedy River Falls
Highlight: Located in the middle of downtown Greenville, a thriving Main Street district
Location: 601 S. Main Street Greenville (Free 2 hr side street parking available)
Reedy River Falls is the striking centerpiece of bustling downtown Greenville. The city draws immense tourism each year due to this pretty waterfall and adjacent Falls park. This park is located right in the center of the ever growing downtown district, a pedestrian friendly area home to so many great local shops and restaurants.
A beautiful pedestrian suspension bridge leads you across the falls for a prime photo worthy view. As someone who lived in Greenville, what I miss most is this gorgeous park and waterfall. Nothing beats a morning enjoying breakfast at a local cafe, followed by a quaint stroll around this scenic park. It may not be the biggest falls in the state, but it sure is in the best location!
After seeing the falls, you can stroll around Falls Park, which is home to peaceful nature trails, gardens, and relaxing hammocks & swing chairs. A local French restaurant called Passerelle Bistro features a lovely patio overlooking the falls. It has been named one of the world’s most romantic restaurants. You will also find a great little local coffee shop called Spill the Beans, offering a full espresso bar, plus delicious gelato, & of course a great view.
4. Issaqueena Falls
Highlight: Secluded and easily accessible
Location: Stumphouse Tunnel Rd. Walhalla Parking Fee: $2
Issaqueena is another wonder of nature accessible via a short 5 minute walk along a boardwalk. The super easy nature stroll to an observation deck leads you to an overlook of this 100 foot cascading beauty in the Sumter National Forest.
Although it’s a bit harder to get quality photos due to the angle, it’s still worthy of a visit, especially if you combine a visit here with other area waterfall hikes such as Yellow Branch Falls, which is moderate in intensity or I definitely would have included it on this list.
The legend of the falls is quite interesting, so be sure to check out the info plaque before leaving. Another popular attraction right in the vicinity is the Stumphouse tunnel, a mysterious unfinished 1850’s rail tunnel which is now home to bats and other small creatures. Bring a flashlight if you plan on exploring as it can get pretty dark. Not surprisingly, there are tons of ghostly legends surrounding this creepy deserted tunnel.
5. Station Cove Falls
Highlight: One of the most gorgeous in the state. Looks gorgeous year-round.
Location: Oconee Station Rd. Walhalla, South Carolina (Limited parking)
Station Cove is one of South Carolina’s most stunning waterfalls, and viewable via a short 1/2 mile long hike. After a refreshing 30 min hike through beautiful cove forest, you will arrive at the 60 foot tall stepped waterfall. The hike is very tranquil and never overly crowded, despite the immense beauty.
If you really want some solitude, consider hiking this trail during the fall or winter months. Thea area rarely sees snow, although the temperatures are still very crisp. The air is cold & refreshing with an absence of muggy humidity. Simply dress appropriately and enjoy the quiet winter bareness of the forest. Although the trees will be leafless, the trek is so peaceful and parking easily found.
If you are looking to maximize your daytrip, combine this hike with nearby Issaqueena, Stumphouse Tunnel, Oconee State Park or Chau Ram park.
6. Jones Gap Falls
Highlight: Located within a gorgeous leafy state park
Location: Jones Gap State Park 303 Jones Gap Rd. Marietta, SC Parking fee: $5 per adult (cash only)
Jones Gap State Park joins Caesars Head State Park in a beautiful 13,000 acre woodlands area known as the Mountain Bridge Wilderness. The Jones Gap hike will take you to several waterfalls, the first being Jones Gap falls. The hike out to Jones Gap is an easy 1 mile out-and-back adventure that I consider simple enough for most families and beginning hikers. Considering the leafy scenery and ending falls viewpoint, I consider it one of the best bang-for-your-buck Upstate options.
The 50 foot waterfall is isolated and scenic and the plant life surrounding the falls very lush, making this one a bit better suited for the spring or summer season compared to others. It’s also quite beautiful during the autumn months as foliage turns the forest from lush green into a medley of autumn hues. For anyone up for an adventure, you can continue on a slightly strenuous 1+ mile, steep journey to the 125 foot tall Rainbow Falls. If you plan on embarking on this extra adventure, bring with plenty of water, a few snacks, and be prepared for a moderately intense workout.
As one downside, this park is very popular and parking is limited. Arrive early in the morning, preferably during the off season or during the week to avoid a lengthy wait.
Note: For anyone also interested in moderate hiking trails, I will refer you to my article on the best in the state.
A few helpful tips for a great hike
Trails are often extremely muddy, especially after intense rainstorms. Wear proper hiking shoes and workout apparel. Bring a second pair of shoes to switch into after your hike. A hiking stick also comes in handy.
Eat breakfast before arriving at the trailhead. There are plenty of options in Greenville. Check out a few of my personal favorites.
Some of these parks are heavily visited in the spring and summer months, especially Jones Gap. Consider visiting on a weekday or the off-season to ensure no wait for a parking spot.
There is no water available at any of the trailheads. Bring with at least a liter. For longer hikes, I recommend a camelbak to ensure you are properly hydrated.
Bring with a snack for longer hikes and something to refuel after your hikes. Most of these hikes are pretty isolated with no restaurants in the vicinity. You will probably be starving after the drive plus the hike which will eat up a lot of time.
A few good post-hike lunch choices in Greenville include:
- Frankie’s pizza (authentic NY style pizza in a casual space)
- Greektown Grille (authentic Greek in a lovely space)
- Roost (a great local restaurant inside the Hyatt featuring an excellent weekday salad and soup lunch buffet).
