Find 6 Bucket-List-Level Views in South Carolina Without Needing to Be an Expert Hiker

I think the majority of us crave those bucket list views in South Carolina...you know the ones. They're those magical views of beaches, waterfalls, and mountain vistas that fill up our souls and remind us of what a joy it is to live in South Carolina. However, not all of us are expert hikers, so some of those bucket list views are off the table.

Well, you don't need to be an expert hiker to see the bucket list views on some of the trails I found below. While some of them may be on the longer side (over three miles), they are all rated easy or moderate, and I'm confident you can complete them with little difficulty. Once you tackle these trails, you'll be looking for more difficult ones to challenge yourself and continue to grow your hiking skills!

Yellow Branch Falls Trail

The hike to Yellow Branch Falls is a three-mile, out-and-back trail that comes with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain. It’s a moderately difficult trail, which is perfect for anyone looking to up their hiking game. The trail is well-marked and maintained, and you get the reward of the 50-foot waterfall to look forward to. Like most waterfall hikes, it’s best to save this one for the spring, when you can see the full cascade. 

Cedar Falls Park Trail

This lovely loop trail clocks in at two miles and is an idyllic spot to spend an hour or two. There are multiple waterfalls to check out (no swimming, though), and the park has restrooms, a playground, and picnic shelters if you want to make a day out of it! This is a great kid-friendly trail, too!

Glassy Mountain Trail

For beautiful mountain views without the strenuous effort of a hike like Table Rock, check out the 1.3-mile Glassy Mountain Trail. There’s 200 feet of elevation gain, which is a moderate grade, and you have some excellent views from the viewpoint. While you don’t need to be an expert hiker for this trail, I would recommend some good hiking shoes, because the leaves on the trail, paired with the elevation gain, can make for some slippery sections. 

Blue Trail

The Blue Trail at the Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve is a 2.5-mile loop trail that takes you through some of the most unique ecosystems in South Carolina. Named for the unusual rock here, the preserve is known for the rare opportunity to see layered sandstone formations with fossils of ancient marine creatures, native longleaf pine trees,  and even a swamp tupelo-evergreen shrub bog. There are several trails within the preserve, so feel free to tackle the others once you complete the Blue Trail!

Swan Lake Trail

The Swan Lake Trail at Furman University is one of my favorite trails in South Carolina. The 1.8-mile loop trail makes a lap around the lake, so you can take in those beautiful waterfront views with every step. I love the mountains in the distance, plus you have the option for a few side quests: the rose garden and the koi pond near the amphitheater are both worthy of your time. This is a popular trail for runners and dog walkers, so feel free to bring your leashed pup along for an adventure!

Huntington Beach Jetty Trail

You didn’t think you’d make it to the end of this list without at least one beach trail, did you? The Huntington Beach Jetty Trail at Huntington Beach State Park is a 3.5-mile coastal trail that’s the perfect beachy walk. It’s a great place to do a little birdwatching and wildlife viewing. You might see dolphins, sea turtles, crabs, and more. This is a really great sunrise spot, hint hint.

Did your favorite bucket list views in South Carolina make the list? Share this article with someone you want to tackle one (or all) of these trails with. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.