12 Scenic Trails To Explore In South Carolina, One For Each Month Of The Year
Set aside some time in the coming year just for yourself. Why not plan to explore at least of few scenic trails in South Carolina this year? We’ve sorted out 12 trails, perfect for reconnecting with Mother Nature at least one time every single month. Check ’em out below and then enjoy looking forward to each and every one as the year passes.
The edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains is called the Escarpment. Twin Ponds Trail is located in the Blue Wall Preserve, named for its location abutting the Blue Ridge Escarpment. Hike this easy 3.9-mile loop that passes one pond and then circles another that's literally in the shadow of the Blue Wall (the escarpment). Learn more about one of the most beautiful South Carolina hikes in our previous article.
Blue Wall Preserve, Landrum, SC 29356, USA
Wander through a towering Longleaf Pine forest as you travel through this national refuge en route to the banks of the Waccamaw River on an easy, 2.9-mile loop trail. The refuge is wildly popular for its toupee of bald eagles that commonly nest throughout the forest. It promises some of the best hiking in South Carolina.
Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge, 1403 W Cox Ferry Rd, Conway, SC 29526, USA
You won't find a more beautiful and nature botanical garden than at Cypress Gardens. Walk along the 2.9-mile loop to discover incredible sights, wildlife, and honest-to-goodness peace and harmony. You'll also get to see that beautiful lilly-covered pond where the famous rowboat scene for "The Notebook" was filmed. Learn more about this beautiful botanical garden in South Carolina. (It's home to the largest butterfly garden in South Carolina.)
Cypress Gardens, 3030 Cypress Gardens Rd, Moncks Corner, SC 29461, USA
How far are you willing to walk to get to an almost entirely unknown secret beach in South Carolina? If four miles (each way) is too far then consider taking the bikes! Be sure to go before it gets too hot, and possibly bring the bug spray! Learn more about one of the best South Carolina hikes by reading our previous article.
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, USA
A nature preserve with the most diverse ecological system in the state, Forty Acre Rock features a massive granite outcropping that spans 14 acres and is filled with deep impressions that fill with water and colorful plants you won't find growing in the wild anywhere else in South Carolina. Learn more about this picturesque South Carolina hiking trail in our previous article.
40 Acre Rock Heritage Preserve, 2207 Conservancy Rd, Kershaw, SC 29067, USA
Get away from the chaos of life in the capital city with a stroll along the beautiful Saluda River on the 7.9-mile Saluda Riverwalk. Boardwalks, pavement, and natural surfaces make up the path of this extraordinary river view hike. Discover why this trail will introduce you to some of the best hiking in South Carolina.
Saluda Riverwalk, Candi Ln, Columbia, SC 29210, USA
This heavily-trafficked trail is one of the most sought-after hiking experiences in the state. That's mostly due to the 75-foot spectacle at the end of the trail. Watch in awe as water flows and dribbles over a rock cliff covered in moss and other greenery. You won't find another waterfall in the Palmetto State that even comes close to Lee Falls. Read more about this waterfall hike in South Carolina in our previous article.
Lee Falls Trailhead, Government Rd 715A, Tamassee, SC 29686, USA
The trek into the forest to reach this 15-foot waterfall is less than a mile each way and what you'll find here is the most secluded sandy mountain beach in all of South Carolina. Swim. Picnic. Relax. Just remember to leave only footprints here. Learn more about the trail, the beach, and the falls at this one-of-a-kind destination in South Carolina.
Riley Moore Falls, Riley Moore Falls Trail, Westminster, SC 29693, USA
Hike a short 0.4-mile over pavement and sand to reach the northern end of Folly Island for a view of the Morris Island Lighthouse, now stranded in the water along the coast. For an amazing experience, go at sunrise! Get a glimpse at the beauty that awaits along this scenic trail in South Carolina.
Morris Island Lighthouse, 1750 E Ashley Ave, Folly Beach, SC 29439, USA
The total distance of this spectacular hike is 10.7 miles. But don't let the distance deter you. Just take two cars and park one at the far end of the trail and then you'll only have to hike 10.7 miles. If you're an avid hiker, this can be done in under six hours. The Peak to Prosperity Passage just may be the best passage on the longer Palmetto Trail... this is because it features no less than 14 old train trestles and bridge crossings! Read more about this unique South Carolina trail in our previous article.
Peak, SC, USA
South Carolina's most well-known landmark juts high above the terrain at Table Rock State Park. Set aside an entire day to hike the 3.4 miles straight up to the top for a fall foliage view like no other. Discover why this picturesque path is the most beautiful fall hike in South Carolina.
Table Rock State Park, 158 E Ellison Ln, Pickens, SC 29671, USA
Hike this figure-eight trail circling the perimeter of Falls Park on the Reedy and cross the river on two different bridges as you take in the sights and sounds of Greenville's most beautiful feature. Then, when you're finished, pop up the stairs to Main Street, which is one of the most festive downtown holiday celebrations in all of South Carolina. Learn why Falls Park on the Reedy is South Carolina's best-kept secret.
Falls Park on the Reedy, 601 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, USA
Do you have other favorite scenic trails in South Carolina that you plan to hike this year? Share them with us in the comments!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Hiking Trails In South Carolina
December 15, 2022
What are some easy hiking trails in South Carolina?
Hiking in South Carolina is so much fun. Even if you’re new to hiking, you’ll find a long list of easy hiking trails in South Carolina that are worth checking out, including:
- Congaree National Park in Hopkins boasts nine hiking trails of varying lengths. The shortest and the easiest spans just three-tenths of a mile.
- Follow the two-mile hiking trail that wanders along a boardwalk at Huntington Beach State Park.
- Exploring Goodale State Park in Camden is perfect any time of the year. The two-mile forested trail is particularly pretty and easy.
- Hike to Twin Falls in Sunset, which sits along an easy trail in South Carolina.
- The Canal Trail at Landsford State Park in Catawba tallies three miles roundtrip.
Are there any kid-friendly hiking trails in South Carolina?
Looking for the perfect way to get the kiddos outdoors? Set off on one of the many kid-friendly hikes in South Carolina, including:
- Follow the Sullivan’s Island Nature Trail on Sullivan’s Island. It measures just over a half a mile.
- Wildcat Wayside in Cleveland spans a mile and boasts three beautiful waterfalls.
- At just a mile in length, the British Camp Trail at Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site in Clinton is one of the best kid-friendly hikes in South Carolina.
