The best walks and hikes in Francis Marion And Sumter National Forests

The Foothills Trail section from Bad Creek to Lower Whitewater and Hilliard Falls is a demanding yet incredibly scenic journey through diverse forests and rugged terrain, highlighted by a series of magnificent waterfalls. You'll traverse varied landscapes, from old roads to singletrack, crossing rivers on sturdy bridges, all while soaking in views of the Whitewater River and Lake Jocassee. This difficult 13.1-mile (21.1 km) hike, with its 2508 feet (764 metres) of elevation gain, promises a rewarding experience for those up for the challenge, typically taking about 7 hours and 34 minutes.

Planning your visit starts at the Bad Creek hydroelectric station, which offers convenient parking and facilities. Be prepared for steep ascents and descents, especially around the impressive Upper and Lower Whitewater Falls, and note that the trail can be slick when wet. While challenging, the route is best enjoyed during cooler months, with winter offering exceptional, unobstructed views of Lake Jocassee through the leafless trees.

This segment of the Foothills Trail is renowned for its abundance of dramatic waterfalls, including the towering Upper Whitewater Falls, one of the highest east of the Rocky Mountains, and the picturesque Hilliard Falls. The area is rich in biodiversity, with rhododendrons and various wildflowers adding vibrant color depending on the season, making it a true natural gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Foothills Trail: Upper Whitewater Falls to Burrell's Ford Road offers a challenging 12.0-mile (19.3 km) point-to-point hike through the rugged Blue Ridge escarpment. You'll navigate diverse forests, encounter impressive suspension bridges, and follow the scenic Chattooga River, a designated Wild and Scenic River. Expect a demanding route with 1524 feet (465 metres) of elevation gain, particularly the strenuous climb out of Upper Whitewater Falls, making it a difficult trail that takes around 5 hours and 35 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that this is a remote section of the Foothills Trail, so come prepared. Parking Foothills Trail Burrell's Ford Road access is available, but confirm directions and conditions beforehand. The best season to hike Foothills Trail Burrell's Ford Road section for expansive views is often winter, when the bare trees open up vistas of Lake Jocassee and the mountains.

This section is particularly notable for featuring the majestic Upper Whitewater Falls, one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains. The route's journey alongside the protected Chattooga River adds to its unique character, offering a true wilderness experience for those seeking advanced hiking routes near Whitewater Falls. It's a top rated point-to-point hike in the North Carolina/South Carolina border region for its natural beauty and demanding terrain.

The Big Bend Falls and Round Top Loop offers a fantastic immersion into the Sumter National Forest, guiding you through diverse hardwood forests rich with hemlocks, white oaks, and rhododendron glens. This moderate 5.8-mile (9.3 km) loop, with 921 feet (281 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 46 minutes, culminating at the impressive Big Bend Falls. You'll find sandy beaches and large boulders below the falls, perfect for a break after navigating the varied terrain.

Planning your visit is relatively simple, with parking available at the trailhead. While the overall trail is moderate, be aware that the final descent to Big Bend Falls is quite steep and rugged, requiring careful footing. If you're considering an overnight trip, primitive campsites are available nearby, allowing you to extend your experience in this beautiful natural setting.

This trail is particularly notable for Big Bend Falls, a powerful 30-foot drop that is the highest single waterfall on the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River. The falls get their name from a distinctive hairpin turn in the river just above them, adding to the unique character of this natural landmark. It's a great option for those seeking a rewarding hike with a significant natural feature in Oconee County, South Carolina.

The Whitewater Falls via Foothills Trail offers a fantastic opportunity to witness one of the East Coast's most magnificent waterfalls without an overly demanding trek. You'll navigate varied terrain, including singletrack paths and sections with exposed roots, leading to the impressive Whitewater Falls Viewing Platform. The moist environment around the falls is particularly vibrant in spring, showcasing a diverse array of wildflowers and ferns, making it a visually rich experience.

This easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) hike involves 683 feet (208 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 22 minutes to complete. While the route itself is straightforward, it's always a good idea to check for specific entry times to the Whitewater Falls area before your visit. Parking is available at the trailhead, but arriving early is recommended, especially on busy days, to ensure you find a spot.

Whitewater Falls holds the distinction of being one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, making this section of the Foothills Trail a significant natural landmark. Beyond the falls, you can enjoy glimpses of the Whitewater River gorge and, in winter, distant views of Lake Jocassee. The rich biodiversity, especially the abundance of wildflowers in early to mid-April, adds another layer of appeal to this popular trail.