Chasing Waterfalls in Northern South Carolina

"Don't go chasing waterfalls, Please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to"

"Waterfalls" by TLC

Last month, my sister-in-law, a fellow photographer friend and I went chasing waterfalls in Northern South Carolina, and found some truly incredible and breathtaking views. I was in town to photograph the annual IPMA conference, which is in a different location each year. (This was my third year photographing their conference, and they are truly so much fun to work with - stay tuned for another blog post on that event!)

We had some down time after the conference ended, so I looked up some easy hikes in the area. I highly recommend the 3 that we went on. All are in Northern South Carolina within an hour of each other and require minimal hiking and effort to get to.

Easy hikes in South Carolina

3 hikes with spectacular views in Northern South Carolina:

1. Carrick Creek Falls
2. Twin Falls
3. Sassafrass Mountain Overlook

Carrick Creek Falls

Carrick Creek Falls is located within Table Rock State Park, South Carolina. There is an admission fee as it's a state park, but it was minimal and definitely worth it if you're staying to explore more than the one waterfall.

Carrick Creek Falls was easy to get to and the closest of our selections to Greenville, South Carolina where we were staying. We parked at the Table Rock Summit Trailhead and were greated by a sign asking to us to fill out a form if we were going on the longer hike. There is a Carrick Creek Trail that is over a mile long, and you are required to fill out a small contact sheet if you are hiking it. I assume this is for safety reason if you are hiking alone (or even in a group) as this is an area known to have bears. The form is not needed if you are only doing the 1/4 of a mile stretch to the falls.

Along the short hike there is beautiful foliage and at the falls there's a nice deck platform to sit at and enjoy the view. We spent some time photographing here and then made our way to our next location.

Twin Falls

Twin Falls is also known as Reedy Cove Falls. (Not to be confused with Reedy River Falls in located in downtown Greenville!) Twin Falls was my favorite stop of our trip. There are actually two hikes near Twin Falls, one that takes you along the upper ridge of the falls right to edge where water pours over the ledge, over 100 feet down. This trail is about 1.1 miles long and generally safer for adults than children. The other trail which we took, is less than a mile long and far more scenic. This route follows along the river below and gives you a great view of both waterfalls once you arrive at the end of the trail. A covered wooden overlook is available with stairs and a picturesque view. Note that this route may be slipery after rain and dependent on local conditions. There were lots of downed trees when we went, so hike with caution and with a group.

The hike to the base of the falls can be accessed from a small dirt parking area in Sunset, South Carolina off of State Road S 39-92 and Waterfalls Road. The hike to the upper falls overlook can be accessed off of Cleo Chapman Highway and is 7.3 miles from the NC/SC state line. Our visit happened to be free of other tourists, which gave an incredible asthetic of being completely submerged in nature. We spent about an hour here, maybe longer, enjoying the view, hiking around the waterfalls (proceed with caution) and just enjoying our time in nature. The magnitude of the falls is hard to capture in imagery, which is why I also did a short video. This hidden gem is definitely worth the stop!

Sassafrass Mountain Overlook

Sassafrass Mountain has the potential to be an incredible viewpoint and lookout. However, the timing of our stop did not allow to experience much of the spectacular views as a major storm was rolling in. The view is still incredible, even though we only had a few moments to look around before it started to rain. The platform offers gorgeous 360 degree views - meaning you can look in any direction and see the mountain landscape.

Another unique point this location offers, is that you can straddle both North and South Carolina when standing on the platform. You can actually stand in two states at once! The view point platform and general lookout was built so far nort that it is on the stateline. A line running across the platform marks one state from the other.

The road to this view point is long and winding, as you are going up the mountain and through very small towns (so make sure you have a full tank of gas before starting out) but it is definitely worth the trip for those wanting a bird's eye view of the beautiful landscape.

Final Thoughts & Planning Considerations

Even though these hikes were all less than a mile, I still recommend planning and packing for the occasion. Plan to bring bug spray, sunscreen, water, and snacks if you think you'll get hungry or will be staying a while. We traveled in June, and the average temperature each day was well above 90, often close to 100 with the humidity and heat index.

Dress for the occasion with comfortable hiking shoes, and loose fitting, light weight clothing. For Twin Falls in particular, there was no breeze since the trees were so thick. If you are not used to the heat, be sure to take your time, travel carefully and even consider bringing a hand held fan. Lastly, remember you are in the thick of nature. Be on the look out for bears and other wildlife. A dangerous encounter is unlikely, but remember you are in their home, not the other way around. Travel safe and when in doubt consult the local Visitor Center or resources below prior to your stay for local regulations, additional precautionary measures, and more information.

Additonal Resources

Table Rock State Park Visitor Center.

All South Carolina Visitor Centers.

South Carolina State Park Directory for list of State Parks.

Discover South Carolina for events, locations, attractions and more.

All Trails app or webiste for specific hikes, reviews and planning info.