South Carolina may not be the first place that comes to mind for winter hiking, but it offers some beautiful trails for those looking to explore nature during the colder months.
Here are 25 of the best winter hiking trails in South Carolina:
- Table Rock Trail: This challenging trail in Table Rock State Park leads to stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Raven Cliff Falls Trail: Enjoy a moderate hike that takes you to the 420-foot Raven Cliff Falls.
- Caesar’s Head State Park: Explore a network of trails with various difficulty levels and vistas of the South Carolina mountains.
- Jones Gap State Park: Hike along the Middle Saluda River and enjoy the solitude of this wilderness area.
- Pinnacle Mountain Trail: A strenuous hike with rewarding views from the summit.
- Oconee State Park: Several trails wind through this park, offering a range of options for hikers of all levels.
- Rainbow Falls Trail: A 2.4-mile trek to Rainbow Falls in Jones Gap State Park.
- Sassafras Mountain Trail: Reach the highest point in South Carolina on this relatively easy trail.
- DuPont State Recreational Forest: Explore a range of trails in this beautiful forest, including the popular Triple Falls Trail.
- Kings Mountain National Military Park: Learn about history while hiking the trails in this park.
- Falls Creek Falls Trail: A moderate hike in Jones Gap State Park leading to beautiful waterfalls.
- Yellow Branch Falls Trail: Hike to Yellow Branch Falls, a 50-foot cascade.
- Oconee Passage of the Palmetto Trail: A long-distance trail with beautiful scenery.
- Lake Conestee Nature Park: Enjoy a network of easy trails around the lake and wetlands.
- Blue Wall Preserve: This preserve offers rugged terrain and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
- Paris Mountain State Park: Hike the Sulphur Springs Trail or the Brissy Ridge Loop for scenic views.
- Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve: Explore unique rock formations on this fascinating trail.
- Cedar Falls Park: A family-friendly park with easy trails and a waterfall.
- Issaqueena Falls and Stumphouse Tunnel: Visit these historic sites on a short hike.
- Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park: Explore mountain biking trails with hiking options.
- Woods Bay State Park: Wander through this wetland area on an elevated boardwalk trail.
- Horseshoe Falls: A short hike to view this picturesque waterfall.
- Lynches River County Park: Hike the swamp boardwalk and other scenic trails.
- Hamilton Branch State Park: Enjoy lakeside hiking on the J.C. Stribling Trail.
- Edisto Nature Trail: Explore this trail on the South Carolina coast in the Edisto Beach State Park.
Remember to check weather conditions and trail availability before heading out on your winter hike in South Carolina, and be prepared with appropriate gear and clothing for the cooler temperatures.
Also be sure to check out other winter things to do in South Carolina this winter season.