South Carolina is a fantastic destination for hiking enthusiasts. Trails for beginners and advanced hikers alike can be found all over the state. If you love being in the beautiful outdoors and nature is your key to relaxation, happiness, and health, then I have 15 of the best hiking trails in South Carolina for you to try. I can almost guarantee that you will love them.
- Table Rock Trail, Pickens
Dzmitry (Dima) Parul/Flickr This trail is 6.5 miles round trip so wear your good hiking shoes and bring some water and maybe a snack or two. This trail is not too hard, but it is rated as moderate. Learn more about Table Rock Trail.
- Paris Mountain State Park, Greenville
Danni Suplicki/Flickr This is probably the “goliath” hiking trail of this group as it’s a 15 mile loop and is rated as difficult, but the sights you will see will be well worth the extra effort. Learn more about Paris Mountain State Park.
- Rainbow Falls, Cleveland
Scott Oves/Flickr This one is only 1.8 miles, but it is quite difficult so don’t think it’s going to be an easy hike. And, it’s only open between September and May. Learn more about Rainbow Falls.
- Raven Cliff Falls Trail and/or Loop, Cleveland
Brenda Wiley/Flickr The trail is only 2.2 miles and rated as moderate, but if you want to make it longer then do the loop which combines Raven Cliff Falls Trail, the Gum Gap Trail, the Natureland Trust Trail, and the Dismal Trail. Doing this will give 8.8 miles of hiking fun. Learn more about Raven Cliff Falls.
- Yellow Branch Falls Trail, Walhalla
Brenda Wiley/Flickr Yellow Branch Falls Trail is a great trail and what a beautiful sight for everyone to see at the end too. It’s just 3 miles round trip, so it’s very easy for for the whole family. Learn more about Yellow Branch Falls.
- Jones Gap Trail, Cleveland
Brenda Wiley/Flickr This is another great place to explore nature and see the gorgeous colors of fall, especially if you want to take the family. This trail is a nicely wooded area that flows along beside the Saluda River. It’s about 10 miles long. Learn more about Jones Gap Trail.
- Caesar’s Head Hike, Cleveland
kingary/Flickr This is a 4-5 hour hike in which you will get to see two of our wonderful waterfalls, a cave, and amazing wildflowers. This trail is best traveled between March and November. Learn more about Caesar’s Head Hike.
- Anne Springs Close Greenway, Fort Mill
Carissa Rogers/Flickr
Carissa Rogers/Flickr This trail is pretty long if you plan on finishing it (at almost 15 miles.) You’ll hike around a lake and a suspension bridge. It’s rated as moderate, but it’s still a great place to take the children. Learn more about Anne Springs Close Greenway.
- Carrick Creek Loop, Cleveland
Joe Plocki/Flickr This 1.8 mile hike is great for everyone. You’re going to see waterfalls and beautiful scenery. You can take your pets as well, but remember to keep them on a leash. Learn more about Carrick Creek.
- Forty Acre Rock, Kershaw
Photos of Lancaster, SC and surrounding areas/Flickr This is a moderately strenuous hike and will probably take you about 2 1/2 hours if you’re walking at a good pace. The trail is really well marked and you will see a beaver pond, a waterfall, a cave, and a gigantic rock…of course. Learn more about Forty Acre Rock.
- Pinnacle Mountain Trail, Pickens
Brenda Wiley/Flickr Looking for a challenge? This may be what you’re looking for. The trail is rated as difficult and it’s 6 miles long, however, the views are so worth the effort. You’re going to see some waterfalls as you go up, but what you’re really going to love is the view from the top! Totally worth it. Learn more about Pinnacle Mountain Trail.
- Lee Falls, Tamassee
Lee Falls/FB This is another trail that could be great for a family especially, if the children are a little older. It’s rated as moderate and is 3 miles round trip so it’s not going to take you forever. However, you’re going to get to see Lee Falls which is a truly breathtaking sight. Learn more about Lee Falls.
- Peachtree Rock, Lexington
Hunter Desportes/Flickr There are 7.5 miles of trails here, but the best one is a 2 mile loop where you’ll get to see the best views. The trails are rated easy to moderate, so this is probably a good place to bring your family. Editor’s Note: Since the original publishing of this article, the “original” Peachtree Rock toppled over. However, trailblazers have discovered a “new” Peachtree Rock in this preserve. You can read all about it here.
- Falls Creek Falls Hike, Marietta
Brenda Wiley/Flickr This is quite a challenging trail at only 1.7 miles, but it’s well worth the fight as you get to see this magical waterfall at the end of it. Learn more about Falls Creek Falls.
- Marrington Plantation, Goose Creek
Marrington Place/FB Here you’ll find a 13.65 mile trail full of wildlife and beautiful scenery. It’s great for the whole family so get out there and make them run that energy off. Learn more about Marrington Plantation.
These are the best hiking trails in South Carolina, but by no means the only trails here in the state. Remember, don’t go hiking without water and snacks. You never know when you’ll need them and you don’t want to dehydrate halfway through a trail. Hiking is always fun with a partner, so take someone along and remember to enjoy the time.
Dzmitry (Dima) Parul/Flickr
This trail is 6.5 miles round trip so wear your good hiking shoes and bring some water and maybe a snack or two. This trail is not too hard, but it is rated as moderate. Learn more about Table Rock Trail.
Danni Suplicki/Flickr
This is probably the “goliath” hiking trail of this group as it’s a 15 mile loop and is rated as difficult, but the sights you will see will be well worth the extra effort. Learn more about Paris Mountain State Park.
Scott Oves/Flickr
This one is only 1.8 miles, but it is quite difficult so don’t think it’s going to be an easy hike. And, it’s only open between September and May. Learn more about Rainbow Falls.
Brenda Wiley/Flickr
The trail is only 2.2 miles and rated as moderate, but if you want to make it longer then do the loop which combines Raven Cliff Falls Trail, the Gum Gap Trail, the Natureland Trust Trail, and the Dismal Trail. Doing this will give 8.8 miles of hiking fun. Learn more about Raven Cliff Falls.
Yellow Branch Falls Trail is a great trail and what a beautiful sight for everyone to see at the end too. It’s just 3 miles round trip, so it’s very easy for for the whole family. Learn more about Yellow Branch Falls.
This is another great place to explore nature and see the gorgeous colors of fall, especially if you want to take the family. This trail is a nicely wooded area that flows along beside the Saluda River. It’s about 10 miles long. Learn more about Jones Gap Trail.
kingary/Flickr
This is a 4-5 hour hike in which you will get to see two of our wonderful waterfalls, a cave, and amazing wildflowers. This trail is best traveled between March and November. Learn more about Caesar’s Head Hike.
Carissa Rogers/Flickr
This trail is pretty long if you plan on finishing it (at almost 15 miles.) You’ll hike around a lake and a suspension bridge. It’s rated as moderate, but it’s still a great place to take the children. Learn more about Anne Springs Close Greenway.
Joe Plocki/Flickr
This 1.8 mile hike is great for everyone. You’re going to see waterfalls and beautiful scenery. You can take your pets as well, but remember to keep them on a leash. Learn more about Carrick Creek.
Photos of Lancaster, SC and surrounding areas/Flickr
This is a moderately strenuous hike and will probably take you about 2 1/2 hours if you’re walking at a good pace. The trail is really well marked and you will see a beaver pond, a waterfall, a cave, and a gigantic rock…of course. Learn more about Forty Acre Rock.
Looking for a challenge? This may be what you’re looking for. The trail is rated as difficult and it’s 6 miles long, however, the views are so worth the effort. You’re going to see some waterfalls as you go up, but what you’re really going to love is the view from the top! Totally worth it. Learn more about Pinnacle Mountain Trail.
Lee Falls/FB
This is another trail that could be great for a family especially, if the children are a little older. It’s rated as moderate and is 3 miles round trip so it’s not going to take you forever. However, you’re going to get to see Lee Falls which is a truly breathtaking sight. Learn more about Lee Falls.
Hunter Desportes/Flickr
There are 7.5 miles of trails here, but the best one is a 2 mile loop where you’ll get to see the best views. The trails are rated easy to moderate, so this is probably a good place to bring your family. Editor’s Note: Since the original publishing of this article, the “original” Peachtree Rock toppled over. However, trailblazers have discovered a “new” Peachtree Rock in this preserve. You can read all about it here.
This is quite a challenging trail at only 1.7 miles, but it’s well worth the fight as you get to see this magical waterfall at the end of it. Learn more about Falls Creek Falls.
Marrington Place/FB
Here you’ll find a 13.65 mile trail full of wildlife and beautiful scenery. It’s great for the whole family so get out there and make them run that energy off. Learn more about Marrington Plantation.
If you loved these best hiking trails in South Carolina, then you might enjoy more of the prettiest trails in the state that belong on your outdoor bucket list.
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Address: Table Rock Mountain Trail, Pickens, SC, USAAddress: Paris Mountain State Park, 2401 State Park Rd, Greenville, SC 29609, USAAddress: Rainbow Falls, South Carolina 29635, USAAddress: Raven Cliff Falls Trailhead, Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635, USAAddress: Yellow Branch Falls Trail, 2911-3023 Highlands Hwy, Walhalla, SC 29691, USAAddress: Jones Gap Rd, South Carolina 29661, USAAddress: Caesars Head, South Carolina 29635, USAAddress: Anne Springs Close Greenway - Blue Star, Anne Springs Close Greenway 362 Handy White Way, Fort Mill, SC 29715, USAAddress: Carrick Creek Trail, Pickens, SC 29671, USAAddress: 40 Acre Rock Heritage Preserve, 2207 Conservancy Rd, Kershaw, SC 29067, USAAddress: Ridge Trail, Pickens, SC 29671, USAAddress: Lee Falls Trailhead, Government Rd 715A, Tamassee, SC 29686, USAAddress: Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve, 883 Peachtree Rock Rd, Lexington, SC 29073, USAAddress: Slater-Marietta, SC 29661, USAAddress: Goose Creek, SC 29445, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hiking Trails In South Carolina August 28, 2020 Leah What are the best family-friendly hikes in South Carolina? There are many South Carolina hikes that are easy enough for anyone to do but still rewarding enough to be worth the miles. For example, Sullivans Island Nature Trail is a quick 0.6-mile long but the tranquil nature it takes you through will make it feel relaxed. The end destination of the trail is the beach - what could be better? The Wildcat Wayside trail near Cleveland, South Carolina is a bit longer at just 1 mile long, and you’ll be treated with views of three waterfalls along the way. For a historic adventure in the woods, try the British Camp Loop at Musgrove Mill State Historic Site. Another mile-long hike, you’ll see historic ruins and an old homestead along the way. What are the best outdoor activities in South Carolina? There are many ways to take on an outdoor adventure in South Carolina. It’s no secret that the Palmetto State is home to many amazing beaches, so a day trip to the beach is easily a favorite outdoor activity of many here. There are public beaches all over the coast, from the busy and popular destinations like Myrtle Beach to the quieter, less-trafficked spots like Edisto Beach. If beaches aren’t your thing but you still want to make a splash, South Carolina has tons of amazing lakes. Here’s an entire list of lakes in SC you can visit yourself. Which state parks should I visit in South Carolina? Explore more scenic hikes in South Carolina at the many wonderful state parks. Besides the ones already features in this list, you can also check out spots like Hunting Island State Park. It’s the most visited state park in SC and for good reason. People love to explore the lighthouse and see the wildlife there. Experience state history at Kings Mountain State Park near Blacksburg, South Carolina. The park includes an old barn, carpenter, blacksmith, and cotton gin, allowing you to experience the “living history” of the place.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hiking Trails In South Carolina
August 28, 2020
Leah
What are the best family-friendly hikes in South Carolina? There are many South Carolina hikes that are easy enough for anyone to do but still rewarding enough to be worth the miles. For example, Sullivans Island Nature Trail is a quick 0.6-mile long but the tranquil nature it takes you through will make it feel relaxed. The end destination of the trail is the beach - what could be better? The Wildcat Wayside trail near Cleveland, South Carolina is a bit longer at just 1 mile long, and you’ll be treated with views of three waterfalls along the way. For a historic adventure in the woods, try the British Camp Loop at Musgrove Mill State Historic Site. Another mile-long hike, you’ll see historic ruins and an old homestead along the way. What are the best outdoor activities in South Carolina? There are many ways to take on an outdoor adventure in South Carolina. It’s no secret that the Palmetto State is home to many amazing beaches, so a day trip to the beach is easily a favorite outdoor activity of many here. There are public beaches all over the coast, from the busy and popular destinations like Myrtle Beach to the quieter, less-trafficked spots like Edisto Beach. If beaches aren’t your thing but you still want to make a splash, South Carolina has tons of amazing lakes. Here’s an entire list of lakes in SC you can visit yourself. Which state parks should I visit in South Carolina? Explore more scenic hikes in South Carolina at the many wonderful state parks. Besides the ones already features in this list, you can also check out spots like Hunting Island State Park. It’s the most visited state park in SC and for good reason. People love to explore the lighthouse and see the wildlife there. Experience state history at Kings Mountain State Park near Blacksburg, South Carolina. The park includes an old barn, carpenter, blacksmith, and cotton gin, allowing you to experience the “living history” of the place.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
There are many South Carolina hikes that are easy enough for anyone to do but still rewarding enough to be worth the miles. For example, Sullivans Island Nature Trail is a quick 0.6-mile long but the tranquil nature it takes you through will make it feel relaxed. The end destination of the trail is the beach - what could be better? The Wildcat Wayside trail near Cleveland, South Carolina is a bit longer at just 1 mile long, and you’ll be treated with views of three waterfalls along the way. For a historic adventure in the woods, try the British Camp Loop at Musgrove Mill State Historic Site. Another mile-long hike, you’ll see historic ruins and an old homestead along the way.
What are the best outdoor activities in South Carolina?
There are many ways to take on an outdoor adventure in South Carolina. It’s no secret that the Palmetto State is home to many amazing beaches, so a day trip to the beach is easily a favorite outdoor activity of many here. There are public beaches all over the coast, from the busy and popular destinations like Myrtle Beach to the quieter, less-trafficked spots like Edisto Beach. If beaches aren’t your thing but you still want to make a splash, South Carolina has tons of amazing lakes. Here’s an entire list of lakes in SC you can visit yourself.
Which state parks should I visit in South Carolina?
Explore more scenic hikes in South Carolina at the many wonderful state parks. Besides the ones already features in this list, you can also check out spots like Hunting Island State Park. It’s the most visited state park in SC and for good reason. People love to explore the lighthouse and see the wildlife there. Experience state history at Kings Mountain State Park near Blacksburg, South Carolina. The park includes an old barn, carpenter, blacksmith, and cotton gin, allowing you to experience the “living history” of the place.
