See The Tallest Waterfall In South Carolina At Caesars Head State Park

The tallest waterfall in South Carolina is also one of the most challenging to see. But at an estimated 400 feet, it’s worth the effort – as long as you’re up for the task of seeking it out. Unsurprisingly, there’s a series of trails through the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area in Cleveland that lead to a couple of breathtaking views of Raven Cliff Falls, and anyone who’s hiked this strenuous trail will tell you it’s a huge accomplishment. Before you leave for this hike, we recommend that you download your free trail of AllTrails+ so that you can have access to updated trail and weather conditions. Now, if you’re ready, grab your hiking boots and trekking poles, and let’s traverse this waterfall hike in South Carolina!

The trailhead can be found at Caesars Head State Park. Drive approximately a mile from the Visitor Center to find the parking lot and a large sign designating the Raven Cliff Falls trail.

For the first two miles, before you arrive at the fork for the loop, the trail is deceivingly easy. Most people travel clockwise around the loop since hiking in the opposite direction will mean a most strenuous uphill return.

Traveling clockwise also means you'll arrive at the short spur trail to the first overlook in well under three miles.

From the overlook, you'll get a feel for the scope and enormous size of the drop of South Carolina's tallest waterfall.

Right about the time you enter the loop, you'll also encounter warning signs that the trail is about to double down on difficulty.

After series of switchbacks, elevation changes and more...

You'll arrive at the cliffs that you saw from the first overlook and a view of the middle part of the falls.

Get used to the cliffs... because the trail leads right in front of a huge cliff as you make your way around the loop. (For scale, if you peer closely at the bottom right corner of this image... you'll see a lone hiker at the base of the epic cliff.)

All in all, this 8.8-mile trail is rated difficult due to the length and the steep slopes you'll encounter going down — and then back up.

Only experienced hikers should embark on the Raven Cliff Falls trail.

And anyone attempting this hike should plan to leave soon after sunrise. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.

The trail is heavily traveled, in spite of the difficulty, so plan to share the road, so to speak.

Dogs are allowed, but should be kept on a leash.

Want to hike the Raven Cliff Falls Loop to see the tallest waterfall in South Carolina? It's mandatory to register with the Caesars Head State Park Visitor Center before embarking on the journey. Most people take 5-8 hours to complete this hike. A map of the trail is available for sale at the Visitor Center. Also, don't forget to download AllTrails+ to guide you on your hike.