Best Hiking Trails in South Carolina

South Carolina is full of beautiful landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Upstate to the coastal marshes. If you’re a fan of hiking, you’re in luck! Here’s a list of some of the best hiking trails in South Carolina, offering a mix of mountain views, waterfalls, and scenic routes. There’s a trail for every skill level!

Table Rock Trail – Table Rock State Park

Location: Pickens, SC
Distance: 7 miles (round trip)
Difficulty: Hard

A challenging 7-mile round trip, the Table Rock Trail ascends steeply through the forest to the summit of Table Rock Mountain. At the top, hikers are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding foothills. The trail features rugged terrain, including rock scrambles and a variety of plant life. It’s a strenuous hike, but the views are worth every step. This trail is perfect for experienced hikers seeking a rewarding challenge and one of the most iconic vistas in South Carolina.

Caesars Head State Park – Raven Cliff Falls Trail

Location: Cleveland, SC
Distance: 4 miles (round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate

The Raven Cliff Falls Trail, a 4-mile hike in Caesars Head State Park, leads to one of South Carolina’s most spectacular waterfalls. The trail is moderate in difficulty, crossing over streams and rocky terrain, with a section featuring a thrilling suspension bridge. The final destination is the breathtaking Raven Cliff Falls, a 420-foot drop. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by lush forests and enjoy multiple scenic views. The trail is popular for its beauty and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the state’s natural splendor.

Issaqueena Falls Trail

Location: Walhalla, SC
Distance: 1 mile (round trip)
Difficulty: Easy

This short, 1-mile trail located near Walhalla offers a quick and easy hike with a rewarding view of Issaqueena Falls, a stunning 100-foot waterfall. The trail is family-friendly, winding through a peaceful forest before reaching the falls. The waterfall is particularly beautiful after rainfall when the flow is at its peak. Visitors can enjoy the sight and sound of the cascading water in a tranquil, serene setting. Ideal for a leisurely walk or a quick stop, Issaqueena Falls is one of the hidden gems in South Carolina’s Upstate.

Poinsett Bridge Trail

Location: Near Tigerville, SC
Distance: 0.25 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Easy

Located near Tigerville, the Poinsett Bridge Trail is a 0.25-mile loop that takes visitors to the historic Poinsett Bridge, one of South Carolina’s oldest stone bridges. The trail is easy, making it accessible for families and casual hikers. The bridge, dating back to the 1820s, is an architectural marvel, with a Gothic design that complements the surrounding forested landscape. This short, scenic trail is a great place to enjoy history and nature in a tranquil, picturesque setting, making it an ideal spot for a quick hike or photography session.

By Geekasms – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=114395871

Angel Oak Tree and Trail

Location: Angel Oak Park, Charleston, SC
Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Easy

The Angel Oak Tree and Trail, located in Charleston, offers a short 1.5-mile loop around one of the most iconic trees in the United States. The Angel Oak, a Southern live oak estimated to be over 400 years old, stands at a towering 65 feet with a canopy stretching 89 feet. While not a traditional hiking trail, this serene walk through the park provides an opportunity to witness the grandeur of the ancient tree. The surrounding park also offers picnic areas, making it a peaceful place for families to visit and relax.

Foothills Trail

Location: From Oconee State Park to Table Rock State Park (includes multiple access points)
Distance: 77 miles (point-to-point)
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard

The Foothills Trail is a 77-mile point-to-point trail that stretches through the Blue Ridge Mountains, from Oconee State Park to Table Rock State Park. This multi-day hiking adventure is a must for serious hikers, offering stunning views of waterfalls, deep gorges, and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, hikers pass through diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. The trail includes both challenging and moderate sections, making it suitable for experienced hikers looking to immerse themselves in South Carolina’s natural beauty. Camping and backcountry options make this a classic adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.

Lake Jocassee Trails – Devils Fork State Park

Location: Salem, SC
Distance: Varies (multiple shorter trails)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Devils Fork State Park offers a variety of trails around the stunning Lake Jocassee, known for its clear blue waters and mountainous backdrop. The park has several shorter trails, with distances ranging from 1 to 4 miles, making it ideal for both novice and experienced hikers. The trails pass through forests, along the lake’s edge, and provide opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer and birds. The combination of lake views, waterfall sightings, and peaceful wooded paths makes this a fantastic spot for a relaxing yet beautiful hike.

The Pinnacle Trail

Location: Caesars Head State Park
Distance: 5 miles (round trip)
Difficulty: Hard

The Pinnacle Trail at Caesars Head State Park is a 5-mile round trip hike that leads you to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain, offering incredible views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and beyond. The trail is strenuous, with steep sections and rocky terrain, but the sweeping vistas at the top make the effort worthwhile. Along the way, hikers will pass through diverse forest habitats and enjoy the sight of wildflowers in season. This trail is a rewarding adventure for experienced hikers seeking panoramic views of the mountain landscape.

Congaree National Park – Boardwalk Loop Trail

Location: Hopkins, SC
Distance: 2.4 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Easy

The Boardwalk Loop Trail in Congaree National Park is a 2.4-mile loop through one of the largest remaining floodplain forests in the U.S. This easy trail, which features a wooden boardwalk, provides access to the park’s rich biodiversity, including towering hardwoods, diverse plant life, and abundant bird species. The flat, elevated trail allows hikers to experience the swamp’s unique ecosystem without getting wet, making it ideal for visitors of all ages. The boardwalk offers fantastic opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the park.

Wassamassaw Trail

Location: Near Summerville, SC
Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Moderate

The Wassamassaw Trail, located near Summerville, is a 1.5-mile loop trail that offers a peaceful hike through coastal pine forests and wetlands. This moderate trail is lesser-known, making it a great option for those seeking solitude. The trail meanders through serene landscapes with views of swamps and streams, where visitors can often spot wildlife like birds and deer. The quiet, natural beauty of the area makes it a perfect choice for a relaxing escape into nature. It’s a great way to connect with the peaceful surroundings of South Carolina’s Lowcountry.

Bad Creek Trail

Location: Oconee County, SC
Distance: 8 miles (round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate

The Bad Creek Trail, located in Oconee County, is an 8-mile round trip that takes hikers through the beautiful Jocassee Gorges area. The trail offers scenic views of the Chattooga River and provides opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and the occasional bear. The trail includes a moderate climb and takes hikers through dense forests, offering an immersive experience in the Upstate’s natural beauty. It’s less trafficked than other trails in the region, providing a peaceful and tranquil hiking experience.

Sassafras Mountain Trail

Location: Near the North Carolina-South Carolina border
Distance: 1 mile (round trip)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Sassafras Mountain Trail is a short, 1-mile round trip hike that leads to the highest point in South Carolina. Located on the border of North Carolina, the summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is relatively easy, with an observation tower at the top that enhances the scenic experience. The Sassafras Mountain area is perfect for those who want to enjoy a quick hike with incredible vistas, and it’s a popular spot for both daytime and sunset hikes. This is the ideal trail for a scenic and easy hike with a rewarding view.

Each of these hiking trails offers something unique, whether you’re looking for a challenge, beautiful scenery, or a more laid-back experience. Exploring these natural wonders not only provides an opportunity to connect with nature but also to experience the rich beauty of South Carolina’s wilderness. So lace up your boots, grab your gear, and hit the trail—your next adventure awaits!