6 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In South Carolina Should Take

South Carolina is a hiker’s delight. From the mountains of the upstate to the lowlands of the coast and coastal islands, The Palmetto State is rife with hiking trails for every experience level -- even beginners. Today we've rounded up a few of our favorite South Carolina hikes under 5 miles that everyone can enjoy! Happy hiking!

1. Rainbow Falls Trail at Jones Gap State Park - Marietta, SC

The trail up to Rainbow Falls is 3.9 miles and considered difficult. But the payoff is spectacular all along the way.

2. Raven Cliff Falls - Cleveland, SC

The trail out to Raven Cliff Falls from Ceasars Head State Park is 3.7 miles out and back. You won't bump into too many people... especially on this suspension bridge over Matthews Creek at the top of Raven Cliff Falls.

3. Yellow Branch Falls in Oconee State Park - Walhalla, SC

This 3.5 mile, out-and-back trail will get you a prime spot at the foot of Yellow Branch Falls, one of the most magnificent waterfalls in South Carolina.

4. Rocky Creek Trail - Great Falls, SC

This hike is 4.9 miles out and back, and offers some truly remarkable sights along the way, including several waterfalls. The Cedar Creek Reservoir is the final destination, and a perfect finale to this beautiful trek.

5. Landsford Canal in Landsford Canal State Park - Catawba, SC

This easy trail is an even three miles out and back. At the right time of year (May) the payoff is extraordinary: you'll be among the first to behold the beautiful blooms of the largest grouping of Rocky Shoal Spider Lillies in the country.

6. Bear Cove Trail in Devils Fork State Park - Salem, SC

Editor's Note: Unfortunately, this trail is now closed. You can find another scenic trail within the park on this website. This 2.5-mile loop dishes out great views of Lake Jocassee and surrounding mountains, and is perhaps the most picture-perfect of our South Carolina hikes under 5 miles.

How many of these South Carolina hikes under five miles have you already traveled? Do you have other favorite short hikes in South Carolina that you'd like to share? Leave a comment in the section below!

And for more staggeringly beautiful hikes in The Palmetto State, be sure to check out these 15 gorgeous treks.