In 2019, the City of Greenville's Falls Park on the Reedy will turn 15 years old. The park itself is a state treasure; and the waterfall (with views previously obstructed by a vehicular bridge) is the showcase of the city. If you have yet to make it to see this spectacular urban park and waterfall in person, then perhaps you can be enticed by a dining experience like no other...
Mary's at Falls Cottage opened in 1995, nearly 10 years before the park's completion, and delivers unparalleled views of the green space and the Reedy River.
Mary's features two verandas and a patio space that face the park, in addition to indoor seating. The atmosphere is that of a bright, understated English cottage.
Infused with traditional sandwiches and salads during the week and Southern-infused items (think shrimp & grits) during brunch on the weekends, Mary's is a delightful place to enjoy a lighthearted meal and a gorgeous view.
Mary's at Falls Cottage is located at 615 S Main St., Greenville, SC 29601. It's open for lunch Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and brunch is served on Saturday/Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Learn more and see the menu, at this link on the official website.
Let's face it: There are certain times of the year when we're all craving an awesome outdoor adventure. If you enjoy the outdoors, your favorite time to explore may vary, but there is always time for a fun hike. For hiking enthusiasts, few places inspire the kind of awe found at the foot of a 100-foot, free-falling, rainbow-infused waterfall. As far as family outings go, this one is sure to foster memories to last a lifetime. Rainbow Falls Trail in South Carolina will lead you to one such natural wonder.
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The waterfall, appropriately named, "Rainbow Falls," is found at the end of an out-and-back trail beginning in Jones Gap State Park in Marietta, SC. And while that view from the base of this colossal waterfall is definitely gorgeous...
... it's certainly not the only pretty thing you'll gawk at on this hiking excursion. The trail, among other things, is spiked with high adventure, including fairy tale foot bridges surrounded by moss-covered boulders and trees. (You may seriously think you know how it would feel to be walking through Tolkien's Middle Earth.)
So the Rainbow Falls Trail difficulty isn't too hard to overcome, and the rewards are amazing.
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Speaking of water crossings, one of the most striking rivers in the state runs through Jones Gap State Park. Once you cross over the Middle Saluda River a few times you'll see why this boulder-laden, babbling brook is so often photographed by professionals.
The trail is well-traveled but not overcrowded. The rangers at this state park see to it that once the parking area is filled, anyone wishing to enter the small parking lot has to wait until someone else leaves. It's a good system that keeps the number of people on the trail to a minimum, in the long run. Just be sure to arrive very early to get a parking spot, or you could find yourself waiting a while for your adventure to begin.
But oh, what an adventure it is! Arrive at just the right time and you'll witness the sun illuminating the waterfall in the colors of the rainbow. In short, the minerals found in the rocks here are responsible for the multi-color effect at certain times of the day.
We suggest giving yourself at least 3-5 hours to enjoy the spoils of this forest paradise. There are plenty of places to sit and relax for a bit before heading back; maybe even bring a picnic lunch (just be sure to take everything with you when you leave).
For a link to the map found above, as well as Rainbow Falls Trail reviews, head to AllTrails. You can also try AllTrails+ for follow-along maps and more trail info.
Rainbow Falls Trail in South Carolina is located inside Jones Gap State Park. The park is open year-round, although some trails close for weather-related safety in the winter. Have you spent any time in this beautiful state park? Tell us about your favorite trail in the comments.
If you need a little more help finding good hiking trails in South Carolina, we can certainly help. Take a look at our extensive trail guide to many of the best hiking trails in SC.
Need a break from everyday life? Trekking along one of the best hikes in South Carolina is a great way to unwind and reconnect with nature. South Carolina’s many trails dish up a variety of awesome experiences paired with equally astounding views. Most people who’ve visited Paris Mountain State Park near Greenville will undoubtedly recall the Paris Mountain waterfall, the picturesque waterfall spillway visible from the road just before entering the park, but not many people realize there is another lake in this state park, or that the other Paris Mountain waterfall is even more beautiful than the one by the park’s entrance.
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While the main spillway near the entrance drains water from the park's scenic Lake Placid, the other waterfall pours water out of another, more hidden, lake.
Since it's a loop trail, you can elect to travel in either direction from the parking lot; however, we suggest a clockwise approach. The first part of the hike is somewhat strenuous and goes down into ravines (and then back up!) and contains some rugged terrain.
It's much easier to take the clockwise route because that puts the hardest part of the hike at the beginning. Along the way, there are countless sights to see, including footbridges and a simple, rustic shelter perfect for catching your breath.
Early on, be on the lookout for the fork... a sign will keep you on the right path. You'll also be in great shape if you just remember to follow the white blazes.
Hiking through the forest is a calming experience, no matter the season. And when the trail finally begins to level off, it means you're approaching Mountain Lake (formerly used as a main source of water for the City of Greenville).
Overall, the trail is rated strenuous due to the up and downhill climbs at the beginning (if you’re hiking clockwise). However, after you reach the lake, it’s level or downhill most of the way back to the starting point at parking area 6. Check out the South Carolina State Parks website for current conditions of this waterfall trail in SC and any of the park’s other lovely features. You can also consult reviews from hikers who’ve made the trek as well as view their photos on AllTrails. Want to amplify your AllTrails experience? Consider signing up for AllTrails Plus. The park and trails are open during select hours. There is an admission charge.
Another fantastic spot to enjoy nature and wildlife in South Carolina is along the Kiawah River, especially at the Bird Key Stono Heritage Preserve. This island preserve is the breeding spot for thousands of pelicans each summer:
