5 Hikes With the Best Sunset Views in South Carolina

Now that the days are getting longer, we can fill that time with epic sunset hikes in South Carolina. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to watch the sunset in South Carolina, and each one is more beautiful than the next. I’ve kept the list to hikes under five miles; that way, no one is hiking for very long in the dark. 

Grab your hiking gear—and maybe a good headlamp—and let’s hit the trails.

1. Raven Rock Loop

• Location: Keowee-Toxaway State Park
• Length: 4.3 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate

This sunset hike has it all: natural bridges, rocky outcrops, stream crossings, and even a lakeshore campsite. The last chunk of this trail gets fairly steep, but those sweeping views are just dreamy at sunset. Check out all this state park in South Carolina has to offer.

2. Jumping Off Rock Overlook

• Location: Sunset, South Carolina
• Length: 0.1 miles
• Difficulty: Easy

Technically, this isn’t a hiking trail, but I wanted to include at least one overlook for folks who are short on time or limited in mobility. This overlook leads you from the parking lot to a magnificent view!

3. Big Rock Mountain Trail

• Location: Pickens, South Carolina 
• Length: 2.2 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate

You’ll find this beautiful sunset hike within the Nine Times Preserve. The trail is well maintained, and the moderate rating is due to the steep incline at the top. Hikers rave about the sunset views along this trail, so be sure to add it to your list.

4. Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower Walk

• Location: Pickens County 
• Length: 0.2
• Difficulty: Easy

Sitting pretty right along the North/South Carolina border, the sunset views over the Blue Ridge Mountains from the Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower will take your breath away. As the highest point in South Carolina, this is one view you’ll want to return to every season.

5. Low Battery Trail

• Location: Charleston, South Carolina
• Length: 2 miles
• Difficulty: Easy

Eastern South Carolina is undoubtedly the place to be for epic sunrises, but you can still find a nice spot for a sunset stroll, too. The Low Battery Trail in Charleston leads you along a waterfront path with stunning views every step along the way.

Share this article with someone you want to tackle one of these sunset hikes in South Carolina with. If you’re more of an early bird, check out the sunrise at Dreher Island State Park.