11 Trails In South Carolina With An Undeniably Amazing Final Destination
Destination hikes are super popular. We all want to see something spectacular while we’re out exploring nature. That’s the whole point, right? With no shortage of nature-based destinations, South Carolina dishes up a bevy of these fantastic trails that lead to some great eye candy. Here are 11 of our favorites:
This 100-foot majestic waterfall drops straight over a chopped wall. The hike to Rainbow Falls is one of the most difficult in the state. It's 3.9 miles out and back with a change in elevation of nearly 1,000 feet. But as you can see from the person standing at the bottom of the falls in the photo above - you'll get the most amazing photo to share with friends and family!
If you love hitting trails where you're sure to encounter other people then you'll love this heavily-trafficked trail. The trail to the top of Table Rock is stunning, passing a waterfall and many natural elements carved right into the trail. But, be forewarned, it will take hours and there's an elevation gain of more than 2,500 feet over 3.2 miles. But that view from the top, though. Momma mia!
Best tackled between April and October, this moderately strenuous trail is 2.5 miles each way and leads to this trickledown marvel in the middle of the woods. Stand at the base and get your own amazing photo just like this one.
Park in the lower lot at this heritage preserve to hit the trailhead for the 1.2 mile easy trail up to the top of this gigantic rock that's more like 11 acres than 40 acres. Pass by a waterfall, a cave and possibly a beaver-engineered dam. At the top, enjoy natural pools of color you never thought possible in nature.The elevation gain is just short of 300 feet so be prepared to climb a little to get there.
This short and easy hike leads to a viewing platform to take in the beauty of these two 75-foot waterfalls. Admire the amazing sight from the platform or work a little harder to get all the way over to the base to feel the spray on your face.
A short hike from the parking area leads to the small footbridge and viewing platform at the base of this waterfall. This trail is best in the summer months when a cool mist has much more effect on a hot day. In all, the loop trail winds for 1.2 miles all the way around Lake Placid and back to where you started. This trail is rated easy.
You could call this the "backward" hike as far as money shots go. That's because the waterfall is actually located at the beginning of the hike, which loops back around so you get to see the horseshoe-shaped waterfall twice. Located nearly two hours southeast of the mountains, this 10-foot waterfall is a rare sight in this part of the state.
Walk at your own pace on this moderately easy 4.9 mile loop to Issaqueena Lake. The lake and the dam offer some spectacular views, while the woodsy area dishes up some much needed shade.
Head to this state park for a myriad of amazing things to see on your hike to the Catawba River. Check out the ruins of the old canal and the keeper's house and then prepare to be awed by the largest stand of rocky shoal Spider Lillies in the nation.
Head up to see the ruins of this old fire tower residence. It's a 3.4 mile loop up to the site traveling through a nice forest with much needed shade in the summertime. This trail is considered moderate and has an elevation gain of 672 feet.
A short and easy hike on the north end of Folly Beach leads to a secluded beach with spectacular views of this abandoned lighthouse along the South Carolina coast. The trail is less than half a mile long and takes only minutes.
What are you waiting for? There’s a new season about to be ushered in so now is the best time to start making plans. Which of these destinations will you start with? And how many have you already been to?
To enjoy more of the great outdoors in the Palmetto State, visit South Carolina’s top outdoor attraction.
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