Discover the 10 Most Spectacular Waterfalls in South Carolina

South Carolina is one of the original 13 states, located on the Atlantic Coast of the United States of America. In this beautiful state, you will discover a wealth of natural wonders. Here, you’ll find a variety of terrain for all types of outdoor enthusiasts, including mountain ranges, sandy beaches, and waterfalls, of course! In fact, the rural area boasts over 100 different waterfalls, each with a unique enchantment.

Are you ready to start exploring the beauty of this gorgeous state? Then check out our list of the ten most spectacular waterfalls in South Carolina!

1. Lower Whitewater Falls

This spectacular waterfall is part of a series of cascades that are the tallest in the east, located in Salem, South Carolina. A 200-foot drop plunges into the Jocassee Gorges at Lower Whitewater Falls. It’s truly amazing how much water flows over the steep rock wall, and it truly makes for an unforgettable scene. To reach the observation platform overlooking this natural wonder, you must travel roughly two kilometers either way along a spur route.

2. Long Creek Falls 

Unlike many of the other waterfalls in South Carolina, both the road and the destination are equally important for Long Creek Falls. Because of its position on Section 4 of the Chattooga River, this waterfall is conveniently accessible by rafting. There are no plunges into dangerous rivers of water to enjoy on this whitewater excursion, but it does feature a multi-tiered, 50-foot waterfall. It is still possible to hike to the falls, but it must be done via an unofficial Forest Service trail.

3. Raven Cliff Falls

Reaching Raven Cliff Falls is no easy task. As one of the highest waterfalls in the state, it’s a popular destination. The drop from 400 feet is a sight to behold, as it’s not something you can take for granted. In the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, the waterfall hike is among the most popular, so don’t expect a serene environment when you get there. Despite a mild incline, the first and last quarter miles are actually the most challenging parts of the hike. 

4. Brasstown Falls

There are three cascades in Brasstown Valley that descend a total of 120 feet. The bottom gives you a unique opportunity to see all three cascades at once, which makes it the perfect spot for a photo opportunity! Believe it or not, all three falls have a unique name. Their names are Cascades, Veil, and Sluice. Also, it takes just a few minutes to walk from the parking lot to the trailhead, so you’ll arrive at the falls without feeling tired.

5. Spoonauger Falls

You can reach this 50-foot waterfall tucked into a beautiful green hillside covered with trees and vegetation in about 20 minutes. It’s a perfect place to cool yourself off on a hot summer day as water falls down a stepped rock wall, flowing into a large slab of granite. During the summer, a shallow pool at the bottom of the falls is perfect for dipping your toes in.

6. Twin Falls

This waterfall in South Carolina is a two-for-one deal; thus, the name Twin Falls. This magnificent natural wonder begins as Reedy Creek, where it splits into two cascades. One falls thunders over a granite slab at an altitude of 75 feet, whereas the twin on the right barrels over stacked rock formations at an angle of 45 degrees. As you continue downstream, you’ll find a slide that will lead you to an excellent swimming hole where you can cool off in the summertime.

7. Issaqueena Falls

There is something unique about the Issaqueena Falls, the subject of many legends and stories. According to folklore, Issaqueena, a young Indian girl, is said to have jumped from the top of the cascade to escape her tribesman. A mere third of a mile separates you from this place, so it is an excellent place to stop if you are short of time. A pavilion strategically placed above the falls allows visitors to see the falls and its 200-foot drop.

8. Laurel Fork Falls

You can reach Laurel Fork Falls best by boat over the beautiful Lake Jocassee. Otherwise, the alternative is a challenging five-to-six-hour hike that includes lots of wooden stairs as you ascend and descend. Get on a boat to enjoy lake Jocassee instead of walking. You’ll be amazed by the eighty-foot waterfall that cascades directly into the lake from the crescent-shaped grotto. This is an absolutely amazing waterfall in South Carolina. 

9. Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls is located in Jones Gap State Park, and it is truly one of the most captivating waterfalls in South Carolina. It is especially beautiful in spring when the azaleas bloom, and the falls are at their height. However, getting there is quite challenging. You will gain 1,000 feet of elevation over 1.6 miles. However, don’t be afraid to try! It is impossible to describe the beauty of this waterfall until you see it for yourself.

10. Falls Creek Falls

These 125-foot-high falls are among the most beautiful waterfalls in South Carolina. Access is, however, not easy, and any path you choose will require a significant effort. Despite only being a few miles long, the Falls Creek Trail is steep in some sections and has a 600-foot elevation gain. The Hospital Rock Trail is about five miles long and requires some hard footwork to reach the other side of the Falls. Either way, you’ve got your work cut for you to see these magnificent falls. 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Sean Pavone