20 Stunning Waterfalls in South Carolina That Will Leave You Breathless

Most people don't realize that in our beautiful state of South Carolina, there are waterfalls to be seen. They know there are miles of beaches and mountains, but most never think about waterfalls. In fact, the Palmetto State has quite a few of them. Sure, they are in the upstate, but everyone needs a break occasionally, and these are worth your time! Here are the 20 best South Carolina waterfalls to add to your waterfall-chasing adventures.

1. Bee Cove Falls -  Tamassee

This South Carolina waterfall is one of over 150 in Oconee County, which is impressive. However, Bee Cove Falls is a remarkable cascade all on its own and can be seen along a moderately challenging hike in Sumter National Forest.

2. Big Bend Falls - Mountain Rest

Big Bend Falls can only be accessed after a demanding hike to the Chattanooga River, but the reward is fantastic if you are up for it. Visit AllTrails for trail information.

3. Brasstown Falls - Long Creek

Brasstown Falls is a hidden gem in SC. If you plan on viewing it in person, be prepared for an hour or more of climbing up and down the gorge. Take plenty of energy bars, water, and a sense of adventure!

4. Carrick Falls - Pickens

Carrick Falls is an easily accessible waterfall with only a 0.2-mile hike along a paved road in Table Creek State Park. Carrick Falls would be a great waterfall to bring the whole family and a picnic basket for a day of fun and relaxation.

5. Chauga Narrows - Mountain Rest

Found in Oconee County, this narrow, 25-foot waterfall is a fisherman's paradise and a hiker's delight! See for yourself why this is one of the loveliest SC waterfalls. Head to the Visit Oconee website for directions to the falls.

6. Fall Creek Falls - Mountain Rest

Home to three waterfalls in one, reaching Fall Creek Falls will take a moderately experienced hiker and approximately two hours of your time. Wear those hiking boots because you will be battling some rhododendron thickets covering the area.

7. Hidden Falls - Mountain Rest

Clearly marked and easily found, this waterfall in Oconee State Park should definitely be on your must-see list. The park has also provided aptly placed benches to remove your boots and dip your toes in the calm, crisp waters of one of the most serene SC waterfalls.

8. Issaqueena Falls - Walhalla

Not just a magnificent waterfall, but a beautiful legend also goes with it. It is said that Issaqueena Falls is named after a Native American woman who risked her life to save the life of white settlers. To see it, all you have to do is trek along a short and sweet 0.3-mile trail.

9. King Creek Falls - Long Creek

Found in the Sumter National Forest, King Creek Falls should be a 'to-do' on your list. It is a short half-mile hike and great for hikers of all abilities. What's even better than a waterfall after a hike? There is a small 'beach' for you to enjoy as well! This is one of the most impressive must-see waterfalls in South Carolina.

10. Laurel Fork Falls - Sunset

Located in the Jocassee Gorges Wilderness Area, Laurel Fork Falls is 80 feet tall. To get there requires a long 9.1-mile hike with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain. However, if you're able to make the trek, you'll be rewarded by seeing one of the most beautiful SC waterfalls.

11. Moonshine Falls - Cleveland

Moonshine Falls is one of those rare falls that you can walk behind to admire. The trail to the falls is not too clearly marked, so you will want to have the AllTrails+ app downloaded on your phone for turn-by-turn directions and offline maps.

12. Opossum Creek Falls - Long Creek

When you reach Opossum Creek Falls, you will receive the reward of stunning views. The two-hour hike is not for the faint of heart and can be an adventure for that feisty spirit or the most challending journey you have ever taken.

13. Rainbow Falls - Cleveland

Rainbows? Yes, please! The hike to Rainbow Falls, an 80-foot waterfall in Jones Gap State Park, is rated as hard, but I would definitely take the journey to see something so magical.

14. Raven Cliff Falls - Cleveland

Everything I have read says that the hike is strenuous, a 7/10, or very difficult. But I have also read that there are crowds of people at Raven Cliff Falls. Obviously, this one is well worth the hike, difficult or not. Check out the trail map to see if you can make it to one of the most remarkable waterfalls in South Carolina.

15. Riley Moore Falls - Westminster

Only 12 feet high on each tier, Riley Moore Falls in South Carolina is worth it just to take photographs and a boon for all hikers. And with its refreshing pool, bring a swimsuit as you're going to want to swim when you arrive!

16. Spoonauger Falls - Mountain Rest

It is an easy hike combined with picturesque and beautiful scenery. There is just not more to be said about Spoonauger Falls.

17. Twin Falls - Sunset

Editor's Note: The trail to Twin Falls is closed due. Visit AllTrails for any mention of the trail reopening.

It is very easy and accessible to get to this waterfall for just about anyone. No hiking has to be done to reach Twin Falls, as it is just a few steps to view this spectacular 2-for-1 special!

18. Yellow Branch Falls - Walhalla

Simply breathtaking are the words to describe Yellow Branch Falls. After a good moderate hike, this is the view you will enjoy. However, watch the weather in the area a week or two before because this waterfall is best seen after a really good gullywasher!

19. Station Cove Falls - Walhalla

Station Cove Falls is a scenic South Carolina waterfall, for sure, and easily accessible through the gorgeous Appalachian Cove forest. Don't miss your chance to see one of the prettiest waterfalls in SC!

20. Blue Hole Falls - Mountain Rest

One hiker said that the "walk down to the river is slippery and steep but the view of the waterfall is 1000% worth it." So, if you want to see Blue Hole Falls for yourself, come prepared with proper footwear, and you'll be amazed at this cascade when you arrive.

Many of these South Carolina waterfalls require hiking; if you need new boots, clothes, or any other outdoor supplies, check out backcountry.com.

How many of these South Carolina waterfalls have you visited? Do you know of any waterfall hikes in South Carolina? Please share them with us—we love hearing from our readers!

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