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Calculated Shard: 187 (from laksa190)

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curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa187.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/","crawl_time":1775778590,"first_indexed_time":1610668590,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,musingsofarover!www,\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/ s443","src_root_hash":"11918782025038094387","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"The Best Places to Go Hiking Near Greenville, SC","meta_descriptions":["Looking for some of the best trails in the area? Here are some of the best parks, trails, and forests to go hiking near Greenville, SC."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Are you an outdoors lover? Or are you just looking to get out of your house for a few hours? Either way, Greenville has you covered. With so many state parks within an hours drive and with the Blue Ridge Mountains nearby, there’s so much to explore.\nHere are my favorite places to go hiking near Greenville, SC.\nNow “the outdoors” and Greenville have both\ngrown in popularity recently\n. Anyone who lives in Greenville knows that people are moving here everyday. So more and more people are hitting the trails.\nWhat I mean by all of this is that, well,\nmany of the places featured here are now\nvery popular\n.\nExpect trails to be more crowded and parking lots to fill up by 9am on weekends year round (you can thank our mild winters for that).\nSo\nif you want to escape the crowds\n, try to go to the less popular areas or trails. This may mean you’ll miss the view, but, on the other hand, you may not have to share your hike with hundreds of others.\nOne last thing to consider are\nthe fees to enter the below parks and such\n. When considering your outing, be aware entry fees may apply. For example, South Carolina State Parks have an entry fee. I don’t mind paying a small entry fee to help my parks. But it’s something to keep in mind.\nTable of Contents\nUnder 1 Hour Away From Greenville\nParis Mountain State Park\nConestee Nature Preserve\nCedar Falls Park\nTable Rock State Park\nJones Gap State Park\nCaesars Head State Park\n1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville\nDupont State Forest\nWhitewater Falls\nChimney Rock State Park\nSumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District\nPisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District\nGorges State Park\n1.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville\nWhiteside Mountain Trail\nBlue Ridge Parkway\nGlen Falls Trail\nHiking Near Greenville SC\nUnder 1 Hour Away From Greenville\nParis Mountain State Park\nTravel Time: 15-20 minutes\nThis is the\nclosest state park to Greenville, SC\nand it’s the one I head to most often when I just have a couple of hours and don’t want to overthink it. I’ve hiked most of the trails in the park. For a longer description of each trail, check out my\nParis Mountain Hiking Guide\n.\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nLake Placid Loop\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: .75 miles (under 1 hour)\nI\nlove the waterfall by the dam\n.\nUpper Mountain Loop\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: 3 mile loop (1-1.5 hours)\nI’m not sure what to call this route, but it’s a loop of the upper trails (Brissy Ridge-> Kanuga -> To Firetower -> Firetower -> Sulphur Springs). It’s\nfairly level and is my number 1 go to hike\n.\nSulphur Springs Trail\nDifficulty: Moderate\nLength: 3.6 mile loop (2 hours)\nThis longer loop goes from the lower section of the park up to the top and back down again. It’s a\nfairly tough climb\nif you’re not in hiking shape, so make sure you’re prepared. And I’d do the loop counter clockwise so you’re coming down the steepest part.\nRead Next:\nParis Mountain Hiking Guide\nLake Placid Loop\nConestee Nature Preserve\nTravel Time: 15-20 minutes\nWhen I want something\nmore than just a walk but less than a state park\n, I like to head to Conestee Nature Preserve. Plus they recently did a lot of maintenance in the Preserve and the trails now have blazes and better signs, and there’s a new map with route suggestions to help you navigate.\nCheck out\nthe map\n(a link to the latest should be found on that page) before you go. You can also find the map at most entrances (check the kiosks) as well as at a few intersections within the Preserve.\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nYellow Route\nDifficulty: Easy\nAccess: Via the Reedy River Bridge Entrance (E2) at the back of the North Entrance to Conestee Park.\nLength: 2.2 mile loop (1-2 hours)\nThis loop heads into the park towards the Swamp Rabbit Trail. It’s\ngot a good mix of paved walkways, boardwalks, and observation decks.\nIt’s fairly busy as I feel like this is the main entrance to the Preserve. But if you’re looking for more trails, there are loads of them in this area. (Want a route with a more natural surface? Try the green route!)\nPink Route\nDifficulty: Easy\nAccess: Near the Conestee Mill off of Spanco Dr (S1). The parking lot here is small.\nThis\nout and back and trail\nis an extension of the Swamp Rabbit Trail. The trail is paved and is a nice little walk, but it is farther away from the other trails in the Preserve. It also feels farther away than the bustling area around Conestee Park.\nCedar Falls Park\nTravel Time: 30 minutes\nThis\nsmall county park\nhas a lot to offer. You can piece together a few of the walking trails for a nice little hike. The Reedy River widens here and you can see remnants of\nold dams as well as a few small waterfalls\nas the river cascades over the rocks and boulders. Plus restrooms, sand volleyball, and a big playground.\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nForest + River + Nature Trail\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: ~2 miles (1 hour or so)\nIf you park at the main lot (the one by the shelter & bathrooms) and\nhead towards the waterfall along the paved Forest Trail.\nThen you can head down to take in all the dams\/rapids. (And even learn a little about the Cherokee who lived here and the dams you can still see the remnants of.) Then head back along the longer Nature Trail to make this a decent little hike.\nTable Rock State Park\nTravel Time: 40 minutes\nI think Table Rock is one of the\nicons of the Upstate\n. Every time I see it along Highway 11 it still strikes me with its beauty. And though the quintessential hike is\nthe hike to the top of Table Rock\n, the park has several other options to choose from.\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nCarrick Creek Trail\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: 2 miles (1 hour or so)\nI like this trail as it’s a bit more difficult than the Lakeside Loop Trail, but\ndoesn’t include intense climbs\n. You’ll have wonderful views of small waterfalls along the creek.\nTable Rock Trail\nDifficulty: Strenuous\nLength: ~7 miles (5-6 hours)\nI consider this to be the main hike in the park. It’s a\ntough climb up to the top of Table Rock, but the views are amazing\n. If you’re not up to hiking the whole way, there is a halfway point that has one hell of a view.\nRead Next:\nHiking the Table Rock Trail [Trail Guide]\nJones Gap State Park\nTravel Time: 40 minutes\nJones Gap is a beautiful, but small state park. The\nparking there is very, very limited\n. In fact on the weekends and holidays, you have to reserve your parking spot in advance (and pay an additional fee).\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nJones Gap Falls\nDifficulty: Easy to Moderate\nLength: 3.2 miles (2ish hours)\nThis trail follows the Middle Saluda River. It definitely goes up, but there\naren’t any intense steep sections.\nThe waterfall will be on your right as the trail keeps going uphill following the stream.\nRainbow Falls\nDifficulty: Moderate\nLength: 4.4 miles (2.5-4 hours)\nThe first mile or so of this trail isn’t so bad as it follows the Middle Saluda River. After it crosses over the river though,\nthe trail starts to climb. And climb\n. (There is over 1,200ft of elevation  gain here.) If you’re up for it though,\nthe waterfall at the end is beautiful.\nCaesars Head State Park\nTravel Time: 55 minutes\nPart of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, Caesars Head seems like a small park, but it’s got loads to offer. The\nRaven Cliff Falls hike was the one of the first hikes I did in the area\n. If you hike any of the less popular trails, I would stop by the visitor center to snag some proper maps.\nSome trails are dog friendly. Some are not. I’ve indicated which below. Check at the Park Office for details on others.\nRaven Cliff Falls\nDifficulty: Moderate\nLength: 4 miles (3 hours)\nDog Friendly: Yes\nTrailhead:\nOne miles past the Visitor Center\nThis trail will take you to the\nRaven Cliff Falls Overlook\n(which is across a small valley from the waterfall). The trail does have a fair amount of up and down (specifically down to the viewpoint), so be prepared for that. And though\nthe view of the 420ft Raven Cliff Falls\nis set far back, it’s still pretty impressive.\n1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville\nDupont State Forest\nTravel Time: 1 hour 5 min\nutes\nDupont State Forest is located over the border in North Carolina and it’s an amazing location. There are dozens of trails and different kinds of hiking opportunities.\nPlus so many waterfalls.\nBut this forest is\nvery\npopular. Be sure to get there early.\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nThree Waterfall Hike\nDifficulty: Moderate\nLength: ~5.5 miles (3+ hours – factor in time at the waterfalls)\nThis hike is pretty amazing.\nAll three of these waterfalls\n(Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls) are super impressive waterfalls. And if you want to cool down, you can wade in the waters beneath Hooker Falls & High Falls.\nStone Mountain\nDifficulty: Moderate\nLength: 2.8 miles (2-2.5 hours)\nStone Mountain is the\nhighest point in the area\nand has some impressive views (especially if the leaves are down). And it’s not as popular as some of the waterfall trails in the area.\nHigh Falls\nWhitewater Falls\nTravel Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes\nWant to see to the\ntallest waterfall this side of the Rockies\n? Enter Whitewater Falls. Now this waterfall is split into 2 sections that are accessed very differently. The Upper section is in NC, and has a short walk to a viewing platform. The Lower section is definitely a hike, is less busy, but is no less impressive.\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nLower Whitewater Falls\nDifficulty: Moderate\nLength: ~4.6 miles\nTrailhead:\nLocated on Bad Creed Rd (off of SC-130)\nThe\nviewing platform for the lower falls is set across the valley\nfrom the waterfall. You’ll see most of it through a break in the trees. I still really enjoyed the hike and the view, but don’t expect to be close.\nUpper Whitewater Falls\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: ~0.6 miles (less than an hour\nTrailhead:\nLocated off of NC 281\nWalk to the back of the parking lot and follow the paved trail. You can see a glimpse of it when you reach the end of the trail. But for a closer look,\ntake the stairs to your right down to the viewing platform.\nRead Next:\nHiking the Whitewater Falls Trails [Upper & Lower Trail Guide]\nUpper Whitewater Falls\nChimney Rock State Park\nTravel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes\nThis small but super impressive state park is known for Chimney Rock –\nmonolith that’s become an iconic site\nin this part of North Carolina. As well as taking in the sites from Chimney Rock itself, there are a few hikes in this area.\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nExclamation Point\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: less than a mile (30 minutes)\nThis short trail starts opposite the stairs to Chimney Rock and\ncontinues up the mountainside\n. You’ll stop by the Opera Box, Devil’s Head, and end at Exclamation Point with sweeping views of the Hickory Nut Gorge around you. If you want more, continue along the Skyline Trail.\nHickory Nut Falls Trail\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: 1.5 miles (1 hour)\nIf you want an easy, mostly flat trail, then this one is for you. Plus it’ll take you to the\nbase of Hickory Nut Falls (a 404ft tall waterfall)\n. A viewing platform is position right at the base where you’ll almost fill the mist on your face.\nSumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District\nTravel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes\nSumter National Forest is broken into 3 districts. The Andrew Pickens District is in the north west corner of the state in Oconee County. This\nbeautiful area has an abundance of mountains and waterfalls\nto explore.\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nStation Cove Falls\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: 1.75 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall)\nTrailhead:\nSmall pull off\n .3 miles past the Oconee Station State Historic Site entrance.\nThis is a\nmostly flat and easy trail.\nJust a simple out and back to a beautiful 60ft tiered waterfall. The parking area is quite small, but you can also park at the Oconee Station State Historic Site and take the nature trail over.\nStation Cove Falls Trail Guide\nYellow Branch Falls\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: 3 miles (1.5-2 hous)\nTrailhead: \nOff of SC 28 near Walhalla, SC\nThis is easy trail will take you to\na beautiful 50ft waterfall\n. There’s two parking areas here so be sure to head to the one in the back\nYellow Branch Falls Trail Guide\nPisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District\nTravel Time: 1 hour 15-30 minutes\nPisgah National Forest is a huge area in North Carolina and is actually split into three different regions. The\nPisgah Ranger District is the closest district to Greenville\n. You’ll find some easy hikes, loads of waterfalls, and great views here.\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nMoore Cove Falls\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: 1.2 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall)\nTrailhead:\nAlong 276 in Pisgah National Forest\n(between Looking Glass Falls & Sliding Rock)\nYou can actually\nwalk behind (or even under) this 50ft waterfall\n. Since it’s a fairly easy hike, many people go out in their bathing suits.\nLooking Glass Rock Trail\nDifficulty: Strenuous\nLength: ~6 miles\nTrailhead:\nLocated on National Forest 475 Rd (off of US-276)\nI would say Looking Glass Rock is one of two iconic sites for this district. And climbing to the top of it was the first thing I wanted to do when I saw it. And the\nviews from it were outstanding\n. However, the slope of the granite is\nvery\nsteep at the top. If you are afraid of heights, I would stay away.\nRead Next:\nHike to the Top of Looking Glass Rock [Trail Guide]\nGorges State Park\nTravel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes\nHiking to\nRainbow Falls was one of the first hikes we did\nin North Carolina when we moved to the Upstate. (Rainbow Falls is a popular name for a waterfall – see one in\nJones Gap\n&\nthe Smokies\n.) But Rainbow Falls isn’t the only hike (or waterfall) here. Be sure to check the state park website for more trails!\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nRainbow Falls\nDifficulty: Moderate\nLength: 3 miles\nIt’s a bit of a hike down to this waterfall (and therefore back up), but this is\none large waterfall\n. And I’ve heard that you can continue past Rainbow Falls to see a smaller Turtleback Falls.\nGorges State Park\nWhiteside Mountain (below)\n1.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville\nWhiteside Mountain Trail\nTravel Time: 1 hour 40 minutes\nDifficulty: Moderate\nLength: ~2 miles\nDog Friendly: Yes\nTrailhead:\nOutside of Highlands off of Highway 64\nThis mountain (and its trail) near Highlands, NC is a loop trail that will take you up\nto the top of Whiteside Mountain\nand along the top of it for some pretty amazing views. I was really blown away by them (even on a cloudy day). Be sure to walk the whole loop to get the full experience.\nRead Next:\nYour Dog Friendly Weekend Guide to Highlands NC\nBlue Ridge Parkway\nTravel Time: 1 hour 45-55 minutes\nThe Blue Ridge Parkway is pretty amazing. I’ve\ndriven the entire Parkway\nwith my dog (camping along the way). But here I’m trying to\nhighlight my favorite trails that you can reach within 2 hours\nof Greenville.\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\nDevil’s Courthouse\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: a little less than a mile (30min – 1 hour)\nTrailhead:\nPark at the Devil’s Courthouse Overlook (MM 422ish)\nThis trail is super short, but will\ngive you some of the best views in the area\n. However it is a tough climb up to the viewing platform, so be prepared.\nBlack Balsam Knob\nDifficulty: Easy\nLength: 1.5 miles (1ish hour)\nTrailhead:\nLocated on Black Balsam Road\n (off of the Blue Ridge Parkway)\nThis is an easy out and back trail that will take you into the Shining Rock Wilderness and to the top of the\nBlack Balsam Knob for some amazing views of the surrounding region\n.\nRead Next:\nBlack Balsam Knob Hike [Trail Guide]\nGlen Falls Trail\nTravel Time: 1 hour 55 minutes\nDifficulty: Moderate\nLength: ~2 miles\nDog friendly: Yes\nTrailhead:\nAlong Glenn Falls Road outside of Highlands, NC\nThis trail, like the Whiteside one above, is also outside of Highlands, NC. The\ntrail switchbacks down the mountain\n, looping back towards the creek several times. And there are some pretty good views of the cascades on the way down. But know that it’s all downhill, and then all uphill.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#primary)\n\n[Musings of a Rover](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/)\n\n- [Blog](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/blog\/)\n- [YouTube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCnn0XI2DyBClso-mcvQe_GQ)\n- [Acadia National Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/visiting-acadia-national-park\/)\n- [Greenville Guide](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/greenville-guide\/)\n\nClose Menu\n\n- [Blog](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/blog\/)\n- [YouTube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCnn0XI2DyBClso-mcvQe_GQ)\n- [Your Guide To Greenville, SC](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/greenville-guide\/)\n- [US National Parks](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/national-parks\/)\n  - [Acadia National Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/visiting-acadia-national-park\/)\n  - [Great Smoky Mountains National Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/visiting-great-smoky-mountains\/)\n- [Free Travel Itineraries](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/travel-itineraries\/)\n- [About](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/about\/)\n- [Places](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/places\/)\n\n- [US National Parks](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/national-parks\/)\n  - [Acadia National Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/visiting-acadia-national-park\/)\n  - [Great Smoky Mountains National Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/visiting-great-smoky-mountains\/)\n- [Free Travel Itineraries](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/travel-itineraries\/)\n- [Contact Me](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/contact-me\/)\n- [Places](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/places\/)\n- [About](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/about\/)\n\n[Dog Friendly](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/category\/dog-friendly\/) \\| [Greenville](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/category\/greenville\/) \\| [Hiking](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/category\/outdoor-adventure\/hiking\/) \\| [North Carolina](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/category\/united-states\/north-carolina\/)\n\n# The Best Places to Go Hiking Near Greenville, SC\nSome of my favorite parks, forests, and trails near Greenville, SC to get my hiking fix.\n\nUpdated in August 2023\n\n![best places to go hiking in greenville sc](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20640%20427'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![best places to go hiking in greenville sc](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/hikingingreenville-1.jpg)\n\nAre you an outdoors lover? Or are you just looking to get out of your house for a few hours? Either way, Greenville has you covered. With so many state parks within an hours drive and with the Blue Ridge Mountains nearby, there’s so much to explore. **Here are my favorite places to go hiking near Greenville, SC.**\n\nNow “the outdoors” and Greenville have both **grown in popularity recently**. Anyone who lives in Greenville knows that people are moving here everyday. So more and more people are hitting the trails.\n\nWhat I mean by all of this is that, well, **many of the places featured here are now *very popular*.** Expect trails to be more crowded and parking lots to fill up by 9am on weekends year round (you can thank our mild winters for that).\n\nSo **if you want to escape the crowds**, try to go to the less popular areas or trails. This may mean you’ll miss the view, but, on the other hand, you may not have to share your hike with hundreds of others.\n\nOne last thing to consider are **the fees to enter the below parks and such**. When considering your outing, be aware entry fees may apply. For example, South Carolina State Parks have an entry fee. I don’t mind paying a small entry fee to help my parks. But it’s something to keep in mind.\n\n## Table of Contents\n- [Under 1 Hour Away From Greenville](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#under-1-hour-away-from-greenville)\n  - [Paris Mountain State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#paris-mountain-state-park)\n  - [Conestee Nature Preserve](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#conestee-nature-preserve)\n  - [Cedar Falls Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#cedar-falls-park)\n  - [Table Rock State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#table-rock-state-park)\n  - [Jones Gap State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#jones-gap-state-park)\n  - [Caesars Head State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#caesars-head-state-park)\n- [1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#1-15-hours-away-from-greenville)\n  - [Dupont State Forest](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#dupont-state-forest)\n  - [Whitewater Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#whitewater-falls)\n  - [Chimney Rock State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#chimney-rock-state-park)\n  - [Sumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#sumter-national-forest-andrew-pickens-district)\n  - [Pisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#pisgah-national-forest-pisgah-ranger-district)\n  - [Gorges State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#gorges-state-park)\n- [1\\.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#15-2-hours-away-from-greenville)\n  - [Whiteside Mountain Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#whiteside-mountain-trail)\n  - [Blue Ridge Parkway](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#blue-ridge-parkway)\n  - [Glen Falls Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#glen-falls-trail)\n***\n##### Hiking Near Greenville SC\n### Under 1 Hour Away From Greenville\n#### [Paris Mountain State Park](https:\/\/southcarolinaparks.com\/paris-mountain)\n*Travel Time: 15-20 minutes*\n\nThis is the **closest state park to Greenville, SC** and it’s the one I head to most often when I just have a couple of hours and don’t want to overthink it. I’ve hiked most of the trails in the park. For a longer description of each trail, check out my [Paris Mountain Hiking Guide](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-paris-mountain\/).\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Lake Placid Loop\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: .75 miles (under 1 hour)\n- I **love the waterfall by the dam**.\n##### Upper Mountain Loop\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 3 mile loop (1-1.5 hours)\n- I’m not sure what to call this route, but it’s a loop of the upper trails (Brissy Ridge-\\> Kanuga -\\> To Firetower -\\> Firetower -\\> Sulphur Springs). It’s **fairly level and is my number 1 go to hike**.\n##### Sulphur Springs Trail\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: 3.6 mile loop (2 hours)\n- This longer loop goes from the lower section of the park up to the top and back down again. It’s a **fairly tough climb** if you’re not in hiking shape, so make sure you’re prepared. And I’d do the loop counter clockwise so you’re coming down the steepest part.\n##### Read Next: [Paris Mountain Hiking Guide](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-paris-mountain\/)\n![Hiking in Paris Mountain State Park](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%20534'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Hiking in Paris Mountain State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/paris-mountain-9-800x534.jpg)\n\nLake Placid Loop\n***\n#### [Conestee Nature Preserve](https:\/\/conesteepreserve.org\/)\n*Travel Time: 15-20 minutes*\n\nWhen I want something **more than just a walk but less than a state park**, I like to head to Conestee Nature Preserve. Plus they recently did a lot of maintenance in the Preserve and the trails now have blazes and better signs, and there’s a new map with route suggestions to help you navigate.\n\n**Check out [the map](https:\/\/conesteepreserve.org\/plan-a-visit\/)** (a link to the latest should be found on that page) before you go. You can also find the map at most entrances (check the kiosks) as well as at a few intersections within the Preserve.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Yellow Route\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Access: Via the Reedy River Bridge Entrance (E2) at the back of the North Entrance to Conestee Park.\n- Length: 2.2 mile loop (1-2 hours)\n- This loop heads into the park towards the Swamp Rabbit Trail. It’s **got a good mix of paved walkways, boardwalks, and observation decks.** It’s fairly busy as I feel like this is the main entrance to the Preserve. But if you’re looking for more trails, there are loads of them in this area. (Want a route with a more natural surface? Try the green route!)\n##### Pink Route\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Access: Near the Conestee Mill off of Spanco Dr (S1). The parking lot here is small.\n- This **out and back and trail** is an extension of the Swamp Rabbit Trail. The trail is paved and is a nice little walk, but it is farther away from the other trails in the Preserve. It also feels farther away than the bustling area around Conestee Park.\n\n![Conestee Nature Reserve](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Conestee Nature Reserve](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/conesteenaturepark-1.jpg)\n***\n#### [Cedar Falls Park](https:\/\/greenvillerec.com\/parks\/cedar-falls\/)\n*Travel Time: 30 minutes*\n\nThis **small county park** has a lot to offer. You can piece together a few of the walking trails for a nice little hike. The Reedy River widens here and you can see remnants of **old dams as well as a few small waterfalls** as the river cascades over the rocks and boulders. Plus restrooms, sand volleyball, and a big playground.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### [Forest + River + Nature Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/cedar-falls-park\/)\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: ~2 miles (1 hour or so)\n- If you park at the main lot (the one by the shelter & bathrooms) and **head towards the waterfall along the paved Forest Trail.** Then you can head down to take in all the dams\/rapids. (And even learn a little about the Cherokee who lived here and the dams you can still see the remnants of.) Then head back along the longer Nature Trail to make this a decent little hike.\n\n![Cedar Falls Park Hiking in Greenville](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Cedar Falls Park Hiking in Greenville](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cedarfallspark-1.jpg)\n***\n#### [Table Rock State Park](https:\/\/southcarolinaparks.com\/table-rock)\n*Travel Time: 40 minutes*\n\nI think Table Rock is one of the **icons of the Upstate**. Every time I see it along Highway 11 it still strikes me with its beauty. And though the quintessential hike is [the hike to the top of Table Rock](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-the-table-rock-trail\/), the park has several other options to choose from.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Carrick Creek Trail\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 2 miles (1 hour or so)\n- I like this trail as it’s a bit more difficult than the Lakeside Loop Trail, but **doesn’t include intense climbs**. You’ll have wonderful views of small waterfalls along the creek.\n##### [Table Rock Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-the-table-rock-trail\/)\n- Difficulty: Strenuous\n- Length: ~7 miles (5-6 hours)\n- I consider this to be the main hike in the park. It’s a **tough climb up to the top of Table Rock, but the views are amazing**. If you’re not up to hiking the whole way, there is a halfway point that has one hell of a view.\n##### Read Next: [Hiking the Table Rock Trail \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-the-table-rock-trail\/)\n![table rock viewpoint](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![table rock viewpoint](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/table-rock-trail-8.jpg)\n***\n#### [Jones Gap State Park](https:\/\/southcarolinaparks.com\/jones-gap)\n*Travel Time: 40 minutes*\n\nJones Gap is a beautiful, but small state park. The **parking there is very, very limited**. In fact on the weekends and holidays, you have to reserve your parking spot in advance (and pay an additional fee).\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### [Jones Gap Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/jones-gap-waterfall\/)\n- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate\n- Length: 3.2 miles (2ish hours)\n- This trail follows the Middle Saluda River. It definitely goes up, but there **aren’t any intense steep sections.** The waterfall will be on your right as the trail keeps going uphill following the stream.\n##### [Rainbow Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/rainbow-falls-in-jones-gap\/)\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: 4.4 miles (2.5-4 hours)\n- The first mile or so of this trail isn’t so bad as it follows the Middle Saluda River. After it crosses over the river though, **the trail starts to climb. And climb**. (There is over 1,200ft of elevation gain here.) If you’re up for it though, **the waterfall at the end is beautiful.**\n***\n#### [Caesars Head State Park](https:\/\/southcarolinaparks.com\/caesars-head)\n*Travel Time: 55 minutes*\n\nPart of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, Caesars Head seems like a small park, but it’s got loads to offer. The **Raven Cliff Falls hike was the one of the first hikes I did in the area**. If you hike any of the less popular trails, I would stop by the visitor center to snag some proper maps.\n\nSome trails are dog friendly. Some are not. I’ve indicated which below. Check at the Park Office for details on others.\n\n##### [Raven Cliff Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/raven-cliff-falls\/)\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: 4 miles (3 hours)\n- Dog Friendly: Yes\n- Trailhead: [One miles past the Visitor Center](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/3LFaiUaMy4vU2Fw99)\n- This trail will take you to the **Raven Cliff Falls Overlook** (which is across a small valley from the waterfall). The trail does have a fair amount of up and down (specifically down to the viewpoint), so be prepared for that. And though **the view of the 420ft Raven Cliff Falls** is set far back, it’s still pretty impressive.\n\n![raven cliff falls](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![raven cliff falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/raven-cliff-falls-4.jpg)\n***\n### 1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville\n#### [Dupont State Forest](https:\/\/www.dupontstaterecreationalforest.com\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 5 min*utes\n\nDupont State Forest is located over the border in North Carolina and it’s an amazing location. There are dozens of trails and different kinds of hiking opportunities. **Plus so many waterfalls.** But this forest is *very* popular. Be sure to get there early.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### [Three Waterfall Hike](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/dupont-state-forest-waterfalls\/)\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: ~5.5 miles (3+ hours – factor in time at the waterfalls)\n- This hike is pretty amazing. **All three of these waterfalls** (Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls) are super impressive waterfalls. And if you want to cool down, you can wade in the waters beneath Hooker Falls & High Falls.\n##### [Stone Mountain](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/stone-mountain-dupont-state-forest\/)\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: 2.8 miles (2-2.5 hours)\n- Stone Mountain is the **highest point in the area** and has some impressive views (especially if the leaves are down). And it’s not as popular as some of the waterfall trails in the area.\n\n![Dupont State Forest: High Falls](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%20533'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Dupont State Forest: High Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/dupontstateforest-16.jpg)\n\nHigh Falls\n***\n#### [Whitewater Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-the-whitewater-falls\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes*\n\nWant to see to the **tallest waterfall this side of the Rockies**? Enter Whitewater Falls. Now this waterfall is split into 2 sections that are accessed very differently. The Upper section is in NC, and has a short walk to a viewing platform. The Lower section is definitely a hike, is less busy, but is no less impressive.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Lower Whitewater Falls\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: ~4.6 miles\n- Trailhead: [Located on Bad Creed Rd (off of SC-130)](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/7B6kVQBjXpuB8K9JA)\n- The **viewing platform for the lower falls is set across the valley** from the waterfall. You’ll see most of it through a break in the trees. I still really enjoyed the hike and the view, but don’t expect to be close.\n##### Upper Whitewater Falls\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: ~0.6 miles (less than an hour\n- Trailhead: [Located off of NC 281](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/ABJqzz2a5jEyL13k9)\n- Walk to the back of the parking lot and follow the paved trail. You can see a glimpse of it when you reach the end of the trail. But for a closer look, **take the stairs to your right down to the viewing platform.**\n##### Read Next: [Hiking the Whitewater Falls Trails \\[Upper & Lower Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-the-whitewater-falls\/)\n![Upper whitewater falls](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Upper whitewater falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/whitewater-falls-17.jpg)\n\nUpper Whitewater Falls\n***\n#### [Chimney Rock State Park](https:\/\/www.chimneyrockpark.com\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes*\n\nThis small but super impressive state park is known for Chimney Rock – **monolith that’s become an iconic site** in this part of North Carolina. As well as taking in the sites from Chimney Rock itself, there are a few hikes in this area.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Exclamation Point\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: less than a mile (30 minutes)\n- This short trail starts opposite the stairs to Chimney Rock and **continues up the mountainside**. You’ll stop by the Opera Box, Devil’s Head, and end at Exclamation Point with sweeping views of the Hickory Nut Gorge around you. If you want more, continue along the Skyline Trail.\n##### Hickory Nut Falls Trail\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 1.5 miles (1 hour)\n- If you want an easy, mostly flat trail, then this one is for you. Plus it’ll take you to the **base of Hickory Nut Falls (a 404ft tall waterfall)**. A viewing platform is position right at the base where you’ll almost fill the mist on your face.\n\n![greenville in spring - chimney rock state park](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%20534'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![greenville in spring - chimney rock state park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/things-to-do-in-greenville-in-spring-8-800x534.jpg)\n***\n#### Sumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes*\n\nSumter National Forest is broken into 3 districts. The Andrew Pickens District is in the north west corner of the state in Oconee County. This **beautiful area has an abundance of mountains and waterfalls** to explore.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### [Station Cove Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/station-cove-falls\/)\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 1.75 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall)\n- Trailhead: [Small pull off](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/8tyggUhnQngfi1Mr8) .3 miles past the Oconee Station State Historic Site entrance.\n- This is a **mostly flat and easy trail.** Just a simple out and back to a beautiful 60ft tiered waterfall. The parking area is quite small, but you can also park at the Oconee Station State Historic Site and take the nature trail over.\n\n[Station Cove Falls Trail Guide](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/station-cove-falls\/)\n\n![station cove falls](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![station cove falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/station-cove-falls-7.jpg)\n##### Yellow Branch Falls\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 3 miles (1.5-2 hous)\n- Trailhead: [Off of SC 28 near Walhalla, SC](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/Ck4kG9Jwc2jmfdcZ8)\n- This is easy trail will take you to **a beautiful 50ft waterfall**. There’s two parking areas here so be sure to head to the one in the back\n\n[Yellow Branch Falls Trail Guide](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/yellow-branch-falls-trail\/)\n\n![yellow branch falls](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![yellow branch falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/yellow-branch-falls-2.jpg)\n***\n#### [Pisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District](https:\/\/www.fs.usda.gov\/recarea\/nfsnc\/recarea\/?recid=48114)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 15-30 minutes*\n\nPisgah National Forest is a huge area in North Carolina and is actually split into three different regions. The **Pisgah Ranger District is the closest district to Greenville**. You’ll find some easy hikes, loads of waterfalls, and great views here.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Moore Cove Falls\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 1.2 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall)\n- Trailhead: [Along 276 in Pisgah National Forest](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/5GkC2sJLXmUrDyuA7) (between Looking Glass Falls & Sliding Rock)\n- You can actually **walk behind (or even under) this 50ft waterfall**. Since it’s a fairly easy hike, many people go out in their bathing suits.\n##### [Looking Glass Rock Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/looking-glass-rock\/)\n- Difficulty: Strenuous\n- Length: ~6 miles\n- Trailhead: [Located on National Forest 475 Rd (off of US-276)](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/TNuNNiCJ2tbeH9qK9)\n- I would say Looking Glass Rock is one of two iconic sites for this district. And climbing to the top of it was the first thing I wanted to do when I saw it. And the **views from it were outstanding**. However, the slope of the granite is *very* steep at the top. If you are afraid of heights, I would stay away.\n##### Read Next: [Hike to the Top of Looking Glass Rock \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/looking-glass-rock\/)\n![Looking Glass Rock view](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Looking Glass Rock view](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/looking-glass-rock-hike-12.jpg)\n***\n#### [Gorges State Park](https:\/\/www.ncparks.gov\/gorges-state-park\/home)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes*\n\nHiking to **Rainbow Falls was one of the first hikes we did** in North Carolina when we moved to the Upstate. (Rainbow Falls is a popular name for a waterfall – see one in [Jones Gap](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/rainbow-falls-in-jones-gap\/) & [the Smokies](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/rainbow-falls-trail\/).) But Rainbow Falls isn’t the only hike (or waterfall) here. Be sure to check the state park website for more trails\\!\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Rainbow Falls\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: 3 miles\n- It’s a bit of a hike down to this waterfall (and therefore back up), but this is **one large waterfall**. And I’ve heard that you can continue past Rainbow Falls to see a smaller Turtleback Falls.\n\n![greenville in fall - gorges state park](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%201203'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![greenville in fall - gorges state park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/things-to-do-in-greenville-in-fall-15-800x1203.jpg)\n\nGorges State Park\n\n![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%201200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/things-to-do-in-highlands-10-800x1200.jpg)\n\nWhiteside Mountain (below)\n***\n### 1\\.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville\n#### [Whiteside Mountain Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/whiteside-mountain\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 40 minutes*\n\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: ~2 miles\n- Dog Friendly: Yes\n- Trailhead: [Outside of Highlands off of Highway 64](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/atSEjYBtThhcJoMJ6)\n- This mountain (and its trail) near Highlands, NC is a loop trail that will take you up **to the top of Whiteside Mountain** and along the top of it for some pretty amazing views. I was really blown away by them (even on a cloudy day). Be sure to walk the whole loop to get the full experience.\n##### Read Next: [Your Dog Friendly Weekend Guide to Highlands NC](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/dog-friendly-highlands\/)\n![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/things-to-do-in-highlands-14.jpg)\n***\n#### [Blue Ridge Parkway](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 45-55 minutes*\n\nThe Blue Ridge Parkway is pretty amazing. I’ve [driven the entire Parkway](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip\/) with my dog (camping along the way). But here I’m trying to **highlight my favorite trails that you can reach within 2 hours** of Greenville.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### [Devil’s Courthouse](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/devils-courthouse\/)\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: a little less than a mile (30min – 1 hour)\n- Trailhead: [Park at the Devil’s Courthouse Overlook (MM 422ish)](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/7xi6AjG9BuvwZKAm9)\n- This trail is super short, but will **give you some of the best views in the area**. However it is a tough climb up to the viewing platform, so be prepared.\n##### [Black Balsam Knob](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/black-balsam-knob\/)\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 1.5 miles (1ish hour)\n- Trailhead: [Located on Black Balsam Road](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/WeinjqFHxR8NxrWH9) (off of the Blue Ridge Parkway)\n- This is an easy out and back trail that will take you into the Shining Rock Wilderness and to the top of the **Black Balsam Knob for some amazing views of the surrounding region**.\n##### Read Next: [Black Balsam Knob Hike \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/black-balsam-knob\/)\n![view from Devils Courthouse](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![view from Devils Courthouse](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/devils-courthouse-2.jpg)\n***\n#### [Glen Falls Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/glenn-falls-trail\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 55 minutes*\n\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: ~2 miles\n- Dog friendly: Yes\n- Trailhead: [Along Glenn Falls Road outside of Highlands, NC](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/VrZfFibPHaFnMUYy9)\n- This trail, like the Whiteside one above, is also outside of Highlands, NC. The **trail switchbacks down the mountain**, looping back towards the creek several times. And there are some pretty good views of the cascades on the way down. But know that it’s all downhill, and then all uphill.\n\n![hiking Glenn Falls Trail, Highlands NC](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![hiking Glenn Falls Trail, Highlands NC](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/things-to-do-in-highlands-28.jpg)\n\n![Are you looking for the best trails near Greenville, SC? Discover what South Carolina's (and North Carolina's) State Parks, Forests, and Preserves have to offer\\!](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20640%20960'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Are you looking for the best trails near Greenville, SC? Discover what South Carolina's (and North Carolina's) State Parks, Forests, and Preserves have to offer\\!](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/hikingneargreenvillesc-pinterest.jpg)\n\n[Share on X (Twitter)](https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=The%20Best%20Places%20to%20Go%20Hiking%20Near%20Greenville%2C%20SC&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.musingsofarover.com%2Fhiking-near-greenville-sc%2F&via=musingsofarover&related=musingsofarover)\n\n[Share on Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.musingsofarover.com%2Fhiking-near-greenville-sc%2F)\n\n[Share on Pinterest](https:\/\/pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.musingsofarover.com%2Fhiking-near-greenville-sc%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.musingsofarover.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2021%2F01%2Fhikingneargreenvillesc-pinterest.jpg&description=Are%20you%20looking%20for%20the%20best%20trails%20near%20Greenville%2C%20SC%3F%20Discover%20what%20South%20Carolina%27s%20%28and%20North%20Carolina%27s%29%20State%20Parks%2C%20Forests%2C%20and%20Preserves%20have%20to%20offer%21)\n\n###### Related Posts\n[![Hike the Raven Rock Loop \\[Trail Guide\\]](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Hike the Raven Rock Loop \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/raven-rock-loop-trail-guide-8-500x500.jpg)](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/raven-rock-loop\/)\n\n## [Hike the Raven Rock Loop \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/raven-rock-loop\/)\n\n[![Devil’s Courthouse on the Blue Ridge Parkway \\[Trail Guide\\]](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Devil’s Courthouse on the Blue Ridge Parkway \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/devils-courthouse-1-500x500.jpg)](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/devils-courthouse\/)\n\n## [Devil’s Courthouse on the Blue Ridge Parkway \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/devils-courthouse\/)\n\n[![Hiking The Bubble Rock Trail](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Hiking The Bubble Rock Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/bubble-rock-trail-1-500x500.jpg)](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-bubble-rock-trail\/)\n\n## [Hiking The Bubble Rock Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-bubble-rock-trail\/)\n\n###### Recent Posts\n[![dogs at duck outer banks beach](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20150%20150'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![dogs at duck outer banks beach](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/duck-outer-banks-featured-1-150x150.jpg)](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/duck-outer-banks\/)\n\n#### [Plan Your Trip to Duck, Outer Banks \\[Dog Friendly Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/duck-outer-banks\/)\n\n[![fall foliage near greenville sc](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20150%20150'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![fall foliage near greenville sc](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/fall-foliage-greenville-sc-featured-1-150x150.jpg)](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/fall-foliage-greenville-sc\/)\n\n#### [Where to See Fall Foliage Near Greenville, SC in 2023](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/fall-foliage-greenville-sc\/)\n\n[![Carolina Renaissance Festival - 5 tips for your visit](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20150%20150'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Carolina Renaissance Festival - 5 tips for your visit](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/carolina-renaissance-festival-15-150x150.jpg)](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/renaissance-fairs-near-greenville-sc\/)\n\n#### [Discover the Best Renaissance Fairs near Greenville, SC](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/renaissance-fairs-near-greenville-sc\/)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20577%20577'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/laura-about-sidebar-1.png)\n\nHey there! I'm Laura. I have a job and a house and bills I pay. (Adulting at its finest.) But I still find time to explore and see the world. You know, climbing, hiking, swimming, surfing, beach-lounging... And now I want to help you find that balance too. So, what are you waiting for? Let's do this.\n\n[Read More](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/about)\n\n###### Travel Itineraries\n[Portugal](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/portugal-itinerary\/) [Maui](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/maui-itinerary\/) [Italy](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/italy-itinerary) [Costa Rica](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/costa-rica-itinerary) [Bar Harbor](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/bar-harbor-itinerary) [Bermuda](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/bermuda-itinerary) [Alaska](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/7-day-alaska-itinerary)\n\n###### Related Posts\n[![Hike to Bridal Veil Falls in Dupont State Forest \\[Trail Guide\\]](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Hike to Bridal Veil Falls in Dupont State Forest \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/bridal-veil-falls-dupont-state-forest-6-500x500.jpg)](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/bridal-veil-falls-dupont-state-forest\/)\n\n## [Hike to Bridal Veil Falls in Dupont State Forest \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/bridal-veil-falls-dupont-state-forest\/)\n\n[![Hike the Raven Rock Loop \\[Trail Guide\\]](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Hike the Raven Rock Loop \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/raven-rock-loop-trail-guide-8-500x500.jpg)](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/raven-rock-loop\/)\n\n## [Hike the Raven Rock Loop \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/raven-rock-loop\/)\n\n[![Hike the Bubbles Trail to the North Bubble Summit](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Hike the Bubbles Trail to the North Bubble Summit](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/bubbles-trail-north-5-500x500.jpg)](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/bubbles-trail\/)\n\n## [Hike the Bubbles Trail to the North Bubble Summit](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/bubbles-trail\/)\n\n### Leave a Reply [Cancel reply](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#respond)\nThis site uses Akismet to reduce spam. [Learn how your comment data is processed](https:\/\/akismet.com\/privacy\/).\n\n## Want help with all that planning stuff?\nSign up for my newsletter and get access to some of my best tips.\n\n###### Musings of a Rover\n\\&nbsp\\&nbsp\n\n\\&nbsp\\&nbsp\n\n[Website designed & developed by me\\!](https:\/\/lauraannsmith.com\/)\n\n[Blog](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/blog)\\&nbsp\\&nbsp\\|\\&nbsp\\&nbsp [Contact](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/contact)\\&nbsp\\&nbsp\\|\\&nbsp\\&nbsp [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/privacy-policy)\n\nCopyright © 2026 · Musings of a Rover · All Rights Reserved","attrs_readable_markdown":"Are you an outdoors lover? Or are you just looking to get out of your house for a few hours? Either way, Greenville has you covered. With so many state parks within an hours drive and with the Blue Ridge Mountains nearby, there’s so much to explore. **Here are my favorite places to go hiking near Greenville, SC.**\n\nNow “the outdoors” and Greenville have both **grown in popularity recently**. Anyone who lives in Greenville knows that people are moving here everyday. So more and more people are hitting the trails.\n\nWhat I mean by all of this is that, well, **many of the places featured here are now *very popular*.** Expect trails to be more crowded and parking lots to fill up by 9am on weekends year round (you can thank our mild winters for that).\n\nSo **if you want to escape the crowds**, try to go to the less popular areas or trails. This may mean you’ll miss the view, but, on the other hand, you may not have to share your hike with hundreds of others.\n\nOne last thing to consider are **the fees to enter the below parks and such**. When considering your outing, be aware entry fees may apply. For example, South Carolina State Parks have an entry fee. I don’t mind paying a small entry fee to help my parks. But it’s something to keep in mind.\n\n## Table of Contents\n- [Under 1 Hour Away From Greenville](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#under-1-hour-away-from-greenville)\n  - [Paris Mountain State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#paris-mountain-state-park)\n  - [Conestee Nature Preserve](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#conestee-nature-preserve)\n  - [Cedar Falls Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#cedar-falls-park)\n  - [Table Rock State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#table-rock-state-park)\n  - [Jones Gap State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#jones-gap-state-park)\n  - [Caesars Head State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#caesars-head-state-park)\n- [1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#1-15-hours-away-from-greenville)\n  - [Dupont State Forest](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#dupont-state-forest)\n  - [Whitewater Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#whitewater-falls)\n  - [Chimney Rock State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#chimney-rock-state-park)\n  - [Sumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#sumter-national-forest-andrew-pickens-district)\n  - [Pisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#pisgah-national-forest-pisgah-ranger-district)\n  - [Gorges State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#gorges-state-park)\n- [1\\.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#15-2-hours-away-from-greenville)\n  - [Whiteside Mountain Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#whiteside-mountain-trail)\n  - [Blue Ridge Parkway](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#blue-ridge-parkway)\n  - [Glen Falls Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-near-greenville-sc\/#glen-falls-trail)\n***\n##### Hiking Near Greenville SC\n### Under 1 Hour Away From Greenville\n#### [Paris Mountain State Park](https:\/\/southcarolinaparks.com\/paris-mountain)\n*Travel Time: 15-20 minutes*\n\nThis is the **closest state park to Greenville, SC** and it’s the one I head to most often when I just have a couple of hours and don’t want to overthink it. I’ve hiked most of the trails in the park. For a longer description of each trail, check out my [Paris Mountain Hiking Guide](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-paris-mountain\/).\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Lake Placid Loop\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: .75 miles (under 1 hour)\n- I **love the waterfall by the dam**.\n##### Upper Mountain Loop\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 3 mile loop (1-1.5 hours)\n- I’m not sure what to call this route, but it’s a loop of the upper trails (Brissy Ridge-\\> Kanuga -\\> To Firetower -\\> Firetower -\\> Sulphur Springs). It’s **fairly level and is my number 1 go to hike**.\n##### Sulphur Springs Trail\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: 3.6 mile loop (2 hours)\n- This longer loop goes from the lower section of the park up to the top and back down again. It’s a **fairly tough climb** if you’re not in hiking shape, so make sure you’re prepared. And I’d do the loop counter clockwise so you’re coming down the steepest part.\n##### Read Next: [Paris Mountain Hiking Guide](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-paris-mountain\/)\n![Hiking in Paris Mountain State Park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/paris-mountain-9-800x534.jpg)\n\nLake Placid Loop\n***\n#### [Conestee Nature Preserve](https:\/\/conesteepreserve.org\/)\n*Travel Time: 15-20 minutes*\n\nWhen I want something **more than just a walk but less than a state park**, I like to head to Conestee Nature Preserve. Plus they recently did a lot of maintenance in the Preserve and the trails now have blazes and better signs, and there’s a new map with route suggestions to help you navigate.\n\n**Check out [the map](https:\/\/conesteepreserve.org\/plan-a-visit\/)** (a link to the latest should be found on that page) before you go. You can also find the map at most entrances (check the kiosks) as well as at a few intersections within the Preserve.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Yellow Route\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Access: Via the Reedy River Bridge Entrance (E2) at the back of the North Entrance to Conestee Park.\n- Length: 2.2 mile loop (1-2 hours)\n- This loop heads into the park towards the Swamp Rabbit Trail. It’s **got a good mix of paved walkways, boardwalks, and observation decks.** It’s fairly busy as I feel like this is the main entrance to the Preserve. But if you’re looking for more trails, there are loads of them in this area. (Want a route with a more natural surface? Try the green route!)\n##### Pink Route\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Access: Near the Conestee Mill off of Spanco Dr (S1). The parking lot here is small.\n- This **out and back and trail** is an extension of the Swamp Rabbit Trail. The trail is paved and is a nice little walk, but it is farther away from the other trails in the Preserve. It also feels farther away than the bustling area around Conestee Park.\n\n![Conestee Nature Reserve](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/conesteenaturepark-1.jpg)\n***\n#### [Cedar Falls Park](https:\/\/greenvillerec.com\/parks\/cedar-falls\/)\n*Travel Time: 30 minutes*\n\nThis **small county park** has a lot to offer. You can piece together a few of the walking trails for a nice little hike. The Reedy River widens here and you can see remnants of **old dams as well as a few small waterfalls** as the river cascades over the rocks and boulders. Plus restrooms, sand volleyball, and a big playground.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### [Forest + River + Nature Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/cedar-falls-park\/)\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: ~2 miles (1 hour or so)\n- If you park at the main lot (the one by the shelter & bathrooms) and **head towards the waterfall along the paved Forest Trail.** Then you can head down to take in all the dams\/rapids. (And even learn a little about the Cherokee who lived here and the dams you can still see the remnants of.) Then head back along the longer Nature Trail to make this a decent little hike.\n\n![Cedar Falls Park Hiking in Greenville](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cedarfallspark-1.jpg)\n***\n#### [Table Rock State Park](https:\/\/southcarolinaparks.com\/table-rock)\n*Travel Time: 40 minutes*\n\nI think Table Rock is one of the **icons of the Upstate**. Every time I see it along Highway 11 it still strikes me with its beauty. And though the quintessential hike is [the hike to the top of Table Rock](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-the-table-rock-trail\/), the park has several other options to choose from.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Carrick Creek Trail\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 2 miles (1 hour or so)\n- I like this trail as it’s a bit more difficult than the Lakeside Loop Trail, but **doesn’t include intense climbs**. You’ll have wonderful views of small waterfalls along the creek.\n##### [Table Rock Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-the-table-rock-trail\/)\n- Difficulty: Strenuous\n- Length: ~7 miles (5-6 hours)\n- I consider this to be the main hike in the park. It’s a **tough climb up to the top of Table Rock, but the views are amazing**. If you’re not up to hiking the whole way, there is a halfway point that has one hell of a view.\n##### Read Next: [Hiking the Table Rock Trail \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-the-table-rock-trail\/)\n![table rock viewpoint](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/table-rock-trail-8.jpg)\n***\n#### [Jones Gap State Park](https:\/\/southcarolinaparks.com\/jones-gap)\n*Travel Time: 40 minutes*\n\nJones Gap is a beautiful, but small state park. The **parking there is very, very limited**. In fact on the weekends and holidays, you have to reserve your parking spot in advance (and pay an additional fee).\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### [Jones Gap Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/jones-gap-waterfall\/)\n- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate\n- Length: 3.2 miles (2ish hours)\n- This trail follows the Middle Saluda River. It definitely goes up, but there **aren’t any intense steep sections.** The waterfall will be on your right as the trail keeps going uphill following the stream.\n##### [Rainbow Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/rainbow-falls-in-jones-gap\/)\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: 4.4 miles (2.5-4 hours)\n- The first mile or so of this trail isn’t so bad as it follows the Middle Saluda River. After it crosses over the river though, **the trail starts to climb. And climb**. (There is over 1,200ft of elevation gain here.) If you’re up for it though, **the waterfall at the end is beautiful.**\n***\n#### [Caesars Head State Park](https:\/\/southcarolinaparks.com\/caesars-head)\n*Travel Time: 55 minutes*\n\nPart of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, Caesars Head seems like a small park, but it’s got loads to offer. The **Raven Cliff Falls hike was the one of the first hikes I did in the area**. If you hike any of the less popular trails, I would stop by the visitor center to snag some proper maps.\n\nSome trails are dog friendly. Some are not. I’ve indicated which below. Check at the Park Office for details on others.\n\n##### [Raven Cliff Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/raven-cliff-falls\/)\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: 4 miles (3 hours)\n- Dog Friendly: Yes\n- Trailhead: [One miles past the Visitor Center](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/3LFaiUaMy4vU2Fw99)\n- This trail will take you to the **Raven Cliff Falls Overlook** (which is across a small valley from the waterfall). The trail does have a fair amount of up and down (specifically down to the viewpoint), so be prepared for that. And though **the view of the 420ft Raven Cliff Falls** is set far back, it’s still pretty impressive.\n\n![raven cliff falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/raven-cliff-falls-4.jpg)\n***\n### 1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville\n#### [Dupont State Forest](https:\/\/www.dupontstaterecreationalforest.com\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 5 min*utes\n\nDupont State Forest is located over the border in North Carolina and it’s an amazing location. There are dozens of trails and different kinds of hiking opportunities. **Plus so many waterfalls.** But this forest is *very* popular. Be sure to get there early.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### [Three Waterfall Hike](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/dupont-state-forest-waterfalls\/)\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: ~5.5 miles (3+ hours – factor in time at the waterfalls)\n- This hike is pretty amazing. **All three of these waterfalls** (Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls) are super impressive waterfalls. And if you want to cool down, you can wade in the waters beneath Hooker Falls & High Falls.\n##### [Stone Mountain](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/stone-mountain-dupont-state-forest\/)\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: 2.8 miles (2-2.5 hours)\n- Stone Mountain is the **highest point in the area** and has some impressive views (especially if the leaves are down). And it’s not as popular as some of the waterfall trails in the area.\n\n![Dupont State Forest: High Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/dupontstateforest-16.jpg)\n\nHigh Falls\n***\n#### [Whitewater Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-the-whitewater-falls\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes*\n\nWant to see to the **tallest waterfall this side of the Rockies**? Enter Whitewater Falls. Now this waterfall is split into 2 sections that are accessed very differently. The Upper section is in NC, and has a short walk to a viewing platform. The Lower section is definitely a hike, is less busy, but is no less impressive.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Lower Whitewater Falls\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: ~4.6 miles\n- Trailhead: [Located on Bad Creed Rd (off of SC-130)](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/7B6kVQBjXpuB8K9JA)\n- The **viewing platform for the lower falls is set across the valley** from the waterfall. You’ll see most of it through a break in the trees. I still really enjoyed the hike and the view, but don’t expect to be close.\n##### Upper Whitewater Falls\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: ~0.6 miles (less than an hour\n- Trailhead: [Located off of NC 281](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/ABJqzz2a5jEyL13k9)\n- Walk to the back of the parking lot and follow the paved trail. You can see a glimpse of it when you reach the end of the trail. But for a closer look, **take the stairs to your right down to the viewing platform.**\n##### Read Next: [Hiking the Whitewater Falls Trails \\[Upper & Lower Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/hiking-the-whitewater-falls\/)\n![Upper whitewater falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/whitewater-falls-17.jpg)\n\nUpper Whitewater Falls\n***\n#### [Chimney Rock State Park](https:\/\/www.chimneyrockpark.com\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes*\n\nThis small but super impressive state park is known for Chimney Rock – **monolith that’s become an iconic site** in this part of North Carolina. As well as taking in the sites from Chimney Rock itself, there are a few hikes in this area.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Exclamation Point\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: less than a mile (30 minutes)\n- This short trail starts opposite the stairs to Chimney Rock and **continues up the mountainside**. You’ll stop by the Opera Box, Devil’s Head, and end at Exclamation Point with sweeping views of the Hickory Nut Gorge around you. If you want more, continue along the Skyline Trail.\n##### Hickory Nut Falls Trail\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 1.5 miles (1 hour)\n- If you want an easy, mostly flat trail, then this one is for you. Plus it’ll take you to the **base of Hickory Nut Falls (a 404ft tall waterfall)**. A viewing platform is position right at the base where you’ll almost fill the mist on your face.\n\n![greenville in spring - chimney rock state park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/things-to-do-in-greenville-in-spring-8-800x534.jpg)\n***\n#### Sumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes*\n\nSumter National Forest is broken into 3 districts. The Andrew Pickens District is in the north west corner of the state in Oconee County. This **beautiful area has an abundance of mountains and waterfalls** to explore.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### [Station Cove Falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/station-cove-falls\/)\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 1.75 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall)\n- Trailhead: [Small pull off](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/8tyggUhnQngfi1Mr8) .3 miles past the Oconee Station State Historic Site entrance.\n- This is a **mostly flat and easy trail.** Just a simple out and back to a beautiful 60ft tiered waterfall. The parking area is quite small, but you can also park at the Oconee Station State Historic Site and take the nature trail over.\n\n[Station Cove Falls Trail Guide](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/station-cove-falls\/)\n\n![station cove falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/station-cove-falls-7.jpg)\n\n##### Yellow Branch Falls\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 3 miles (1.5-2 hous)\n- Trailhead: [Off of SC 28 near Walhalla, SC](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/Ck4kG9Jwc2jmfdcZ8)\n- This is easy trail will take you to **a beautiful 50ft waterfall**. There’s two parking areas here so be sure to head to the one in the back\n\n[Yellow Branch Falls Trail Guide](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/yellow-branch-falls-trail\/)\n\n![yellow branch falls](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/yellow-branch-falls-2.jpg)\n***\n#### [Pisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District](https:\/\/www.fs.usda.gov\/recarea\/nfsnc\/recarea\/?recid=48114)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 15-30 minutes*\n\nPisgah National Forest is a huge area in North Carolina and is actually split into three different regions. The **Pisgah Ranger District is the closest district to Greenville**. You’ll find some easy hikes, loads of waterfalls, and great views here.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Moore Cove Falls\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 1.2 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall)\n- Trailhead: [Along 276 in Pisgah National Forest](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/5GkC2sJLXmUrDyuA7) (between Looking Glass Falls & Sliding Rock)\n- You can actually **walk behind (or even under) this 50ft waterfall**. Since it’s a fairly easy hike, many people go out in their bathing suits.\n##### [Looking Glass Rock Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/looking-glass-rock\/)\n- Difficulty: Strenuous\n- Length: ~6 miles\n- Trailhead: [Located on National Forest 475 Rd (off of US-276)](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/TNuNNiCJ2tbeH9qK9)\n- I would say Looking Glass Rock is one of two iconic sites for this district. And climbing to the top of it was the first thing I wanted to do when I saw it. And the **views from it were outstanding**. However, the slope of the granite is *very* steep at the top. If you are afraid of heights, I would stay away.\n##### Read Next: [Hike to the Top of Looking Glass Rock \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/looking-glass-rock\/)\n![Looking Glass Rock view](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/looking-glass-rock-hike-12.jpg)\n***\n#### [Gorges State Park](https:\/\/www.ncparks.gov\/gorges-state-park\/home)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes*\n\nHiking to **Rainbow Falls was one of the first hikes we did** in North Carolina when we moved to the Upstate. (Rainbow Falls is a popular name for a waterfall – see one in [Jones Gap](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/rainbow-falls-in-jones-gap\/) & [the Smokies](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/rainbow-falls-trail\/).) But Rainbow Falls isn’t the only hike (or waterfall) here. Be sure to check the state park website for more trails\\!\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### Rainbow Falls\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: 3 miles\n- It’s a bit of a hike down to this waterfall (and therefore back up), but this is **one large waterfall**. And I’ve heard that you can continue past Rainbow Falls to see a smaller Turtleback Falls.\n\n![greenville in fall - gorges state park](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/things-to-do-in-greenville-in-fall-15-800x1203.jpg)\n\nGorges State Park\n\n![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/things-to-do-in-highlands-10-800x1200.jpg)\n\nWhiteside Mountain (below)\n***\n### 1\\.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville\n#### [Whiteside Mountain Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/whiteside-mountain\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 40 minutes*\n\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: ~2 miles\n- Dog Friendly: Yes\n- Trailhead: [Outside of Highlands off of Highway 64](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/atSEjYBtThhcJoMJ6)\n- This mountain (and its trail) near Highlands, NC is a loop trail that will take you up **to the top of Whiteside Mountain** and along the top of it for some pretty amazing views. I was really blown away by them (even on a cloudy day). Be sure to walk the whole loop to get the full experience.\n##### Read Next: [Your Dog Friendly Weekend Guide to Highlands NC](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/dog-friendly-highlands\/)\n![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/things-to-do-in-highlands-14.jpg)\n***\n#### [Blue Ridge Parkway](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 45-55 minutes*\n\nThe Blue Ridge Parkway is pretty amazing. I’ve [driven the entire Parkway](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip\/) with my dog (camping along the way). But here I’m trying to **highlight my favorite trails that you can reach within 2 hours** of Greenville.\n\nTrails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash.\n\n##### [Devil’s Courthouse](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/devils-courthouse\/)\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: a little less than a mile (30min – 1 hour)\n- Trailhead: [Park at the Devil’s Courthouse Overlook (MM 422ish)](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/7xi6AjG9BuvwZKAm9)\n- This trail is super short, but will **give you some of the best views in the area**. However it is a tough climb up to the viewing platform, so be prepared.\n##### [Black Balsam Knob](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/black-balsam-knob\/)\n- Difficulty: Easy\n- Length: 1.5 miles (1ish hour)\n- Trailhead: [Located on Black Balsam Road](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/WeinjqFHxR8NxrWH9) (off of the Blue Ridge Parkway)\n- This is an easy out and back trail that will take you into the Shining Rock Wilderness and to the top of the **Black Balsam Knob for some amazing views of the surrounding region**.\n##### Read Next: [Black Balsam Knob Hike \\[Trail Guide\\]](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/black-balsam-knob\/)\n![view from Devils Courthouse](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/devils-courthouse-2.jpg)\n***\n#### [Glen Falls Trail](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/glenn-falls-trail\/)\n*Travel Time: 1 hour 55 minutes*\n\n- Difficulty: Moderate\n- Length: ~2 miles\n- Dog friendly: Yes\n- Trailhead: [Along Glenn Falls Road outside of Highlands, NC](https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/VrZfFibPHaFnMUYy9)\n- This trail, like the Whiteside one above, is also outside of Highlands, NC. The **trail switchbacks down the mountain**, looping back towards the creek several times. And there are some pretty good views of the cascades on the way down. But know that it’s all downhill, and then all uphill.\n\n![hiking Glenn Falls Trail, Highlands NC](https:\/\/www.musingsofarover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/things-to-do-in-highlands-28.jpg)","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	The Best Places to Go Hiking Near Greenville, SC
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Boilerpipe Text	Are you an outdoors lover? Or are you just looking to get out of your house for a few hours? Either way, Greenville has you covered. With so many state parks within an hours drive and with the Blue Ridge Mountains nearby, there’s so much to explore. Here are my favorite places to go hiking near Greenville, SC. Now “the outdoors” and Greenville have both grown in popularity recently . Anyone who lives in Greenville knows that people are moving here everyday. So more and more people are hitting the trails. What I mean by all of this is that, well, many of the places featured here are now very popular . Expect trails to be more crowded and parking lots to fill up by 9am on weekends year round (you can thank our mild winters for that). So if you want to escape the crowds , try to go to the less popular areas or trails. This may mean you’ll miss the view, but, on the other hand, you may not have to share your hike with hundreds of others. One last thing to consider are the fees to enter the below parks and such . When considering your outing, be aware entry fees may apply. For example, South Carolina State Parks have an entry fee. I don’t mind paying a small entry fee to help my parks. But it’s something to keep in mind. Table of Contents Under 1 Hour Away From Greenville Paris Mountain State Park Conestee Nature Preserve Cedar Falls Park Table Rock State Park Jones Gap State Park Caesars Head State Park 1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville Dupont State Forest Whitewater Falls Chimney Rock State Park Sumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District Pisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District Gorges State Park 1.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville Whiteside Mountain Trail Blue Ridge Parkway Glen Falls Trail Hiking Near Greenville SC Under 1 Hour Away From Greenville Paris Mountain State Park Travel Time: 15-20 minutes This is the closest state park to Greenville, SC and it’s the one I head to most often when I just have a couple of hours and don’t want to overthink it. I’ve hiked most of the trails in the park. For a longer description of each trail, check out my Paris Mountain Hiking Guide . Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Lake Placid Loop Difficulty: Easy Length: .75 miles (under 1 hour) I love the waterfall by the dam . Upper Mountain Loop Difficulty: Easy Length: 3 mile loop (1-1.5 hours) I’m not sure what to call this route, but it’s a loop of the upper trails (Brissy Ridge-> Kanuga -> To Firetower -> Firetower -> Sulphur Springs). It’s fairly level and is my number 1 go to hike . Sulphur Springs Trail Difficulty: Moderate Length: 3.6 mile loop (2 hours) This longer loop goes from the lower section of the park up to the top and back down again. It’s a fairly tough climb if you’re not in hiking shape, so make sure you’re prepared. And I’d do the loop counter clockwise so you’re coming down the steepest part. Read Next: Paris Mountain Hiking Guide Lake Placid Loop Conestee Nature Preserve Travel Time: 15-20 minutes When I want something more than just a walk but less than a state park , I like to head to Conestee Nature Preserve. Plus they recently did a lot of maintenance in the Preserve and the trails now have blazes and better signs, and there’s a new map with route suggestions to help you navigate. Check out the map (a link to the latest should be found on that page) before you go. You can also find the map at most entrances (check the kiosks) as well as at a few intersections within the Preserve. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Yellow Route Difficulty: Easy Access: Via the Reedy River Bridge Entrance (E2) at the back of the North Entrance to Conestee Park. Length: 2.2 mile loop (1-2 hours) This loop heads into the park towards the Swamp Rabbit Trail. It’s got a good mix of paved walkways, boardwalks, and observation decks. It’s fairly busy as I feel like this is the main entrance to the Preserve. But if you’re looking for more trails, there are loads of them in this area. (Want a route with a more natural surface? Try the green route!) Pink Route Difficulty: Easy Access: Near the Conestee Mill off of Spanco Dr (S1). The parking lot here is small. This out and back and trail is an extension of the Swamp Rabbit Trail. The trail is paved and is a nice little walk, but it is farther away from the other trails in the Preserve. It also feels farther away than the bustling area around Conestee Park. Cedar Falls Park Travel Time: 30 minutes This small county park has a lot to offer. You can piece together a few of the walking trails for a nice little hike. The Reedy River widens here and you can see remnants of old dams as well as a few small waterfalls as the river cascades over the rocks and boulders. Plus restrooms, sand volleyball, and a big playground. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Forest + River + Nature Trail Difficulty: Easy Length: ~2 miles (1 hour or so) If you park at the main lot (the one by the shelter & bathrooms) and head towards the waterfall along the paved Forest Trail. Then you can head down to take in all the dams/rapids. (And even learn a little about the Cherokee who lived here and the dams you can still see the remnants of.) Then head back along the longer Nature Trail to make this a decent little hike. Table Rock State Park Travel Time: 40 minutes I think Table Rock is one of the icons of the Upstate . Every time I see it along Highway 11 it still strikes me with its beauty. And though the quintessential hike is the hike to the top of Table Rock , the park has several other options to choose from. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Carrick Creek Trail Difficulty: Easy Length: 2 miles (1 hour or so) I like this trail as it’s a bit more difficult than the Lakeside Loop Trail, but doesn’t include intense climbs . You’ll have wonderful views of small waterfalls along the creek. Table Rock Trail Difficulty: Strenuous Length: ~7 miles (5-6 hours) I consider this to be the main hike in the park. It’s a tough climb up to the top of Table Rock, but the views are amazing . If you’re not up to hiking the whole way, there is a halfway point that has one hell of a view. Read Next: Hiking the Table Rock Trail [Trail Guide] Jones Gap State Park Travel Time: 40 minutes Jones Gap is a beautiful, but small state park. The parking there is very, very limited . In fact on the weekends and holidays, you have to reserve your parking spot in advance (and pay an additional fee). Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Jones Gap Falls Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Length: 3.2 miles (2ish hours) This trail follows the Middle Saluda River. It definitely goes up, but there aren’t any intense steep sections. The waterfall will be on your right as the trail keeps going uphill following the stream. Rainbow Falls Difficulty: Moderate Length: 4.4 miles (2.5-4 hours) The first mile or so of this trail isn’t so bad as it follows the Middle Saluda River. After it crosses over the river though, the trail starts to climb. And climb . (There is over 1,200ft of elevation gain here.) If you’re up for it though, the waterfall at the end is beautiful. Caesars Head State Park Travel Time: 55 minutes Part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, Caesars Head seems like a small park, but it’s got loads to offer. The Raven Cliff Falls hike was the one of the first hikes I did in the area . If you hike any of the less popular trails, I would stop by the visitor center to snag some proper maps. Some trails are dog friendly. Some are not. I’ve indicated which below. Check at the Park Office for details on others. Raven Cliff Falls Difficulty: Moderate Length: 4 miles (3 hours) Dog Friendly: Yes Trailhead: One miles past the Visitor Center This trail will take you to the Raven Cliff Falls Overlook (which is across a small valley from the waterfall). The trail does have a fair amount of up and down (specifically down to the viewpoint), so be prepared for that. And though the view of the 420ft Raven Cliff Falls is set far back, it’s still pretty impressive. 1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville Dupont State Forest Travel Time: 1 hour 5 min utes Dupont State Forest is located over the border in North Carolina and it’s an amazing location. There are dozens of trails and different kinds of hiking opportunities. Plus so many waterfalls. But this forest is very popular. Be sure to get there early. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Three Waterfall Hike Difficulty: Moderate Length: ~5.5 miles (3+ hours – factor in time at the waterfalls) This hike is pretty amazing. All three of these waterfalls (Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls) are super impressive waterfalls. And if you want to cool down, you can wade in the waters beneath Hooker Falls & High Falls. Stone Mountain Difficulty: Moderate Length: 2.8 miles (2-2.5 hours) Stone Mountain is the highest point in the area and has some impressive views (especially if the leaves are down). And it’s not as popular as some of the waterfall trails in the area. High Falls Whitewater Falls Travel Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes Want to see to the tallest waterfall this side of the Rockies ? Enter Whitewater Falls. Now this waterfall is split into 2 sections that are accessed very differently. The Upper section is in NC, and has a short walk to a viewing platform. The Lower section is definitely a hike, is less busy, but is no less impressive. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Lower Whitewater Falls Difficulty: Moderate Length: ~4.6 miles Trailhead: Located on Bad Creed Rd (off of SC-130) The viewing platform for the lower falls is set across the valley from the waterfall. You’ll see most of it through a break in the trees. I still really enjoyed the hike and the view, but don’t expect to be close. Upper Whitewater Falls Difficulty: Easy Length: ~0.6 miles (less than an hour Trailhead: Located off of NC 281 Walk to the back of the parking lot and follow the paved trail. You can see a glimpse of it when you reach the end of the trail. But for a closer look, take the stairs to your right down to the viewing platform. Read Next: Hiking the Whitewater Falls Trails [Upper & Lower Trail Guide] Upper Whitewater Falls Chimney Rock State Park Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes This small but super impressive state park is known for Chimney Rock – monolith that’s become an iconic site in this part of North Carolina. As well as taking in the sites from Chimney Rock itself, there are a few hikes in this area. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Exclamation Point Difficulty: Easy Length: less than a mile (30 minutes) This short trail starts opposite the stairs to Chimney Rock and continues up the mountainside . You’ll stop by the Opera Box, Devil’s Head, and end at Exclamation Point with sweeping views of the Hickory Nut Gorge around you. If you want more, continue along the Skyline Trail. Hickory Nut Falls Trail Difficulty: Easy Length: 1.5 miles (1 hour) If you want an easy, mostly flat trail, then this one is for you. Plus it’ll take you to the base of Hickory Nut Falls (a 404ft tall waterfall) . A viewing platform is position right at the base where you’ll almost fill the mist on your face. Sumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes Sumter National Forest is broken into 3 districts. The Andrew Pickens District is in the north west corner of the state in Oconee County. This beautiful area has an abundance of mountains and waterfalls to explore. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Station Cove Falls Difficulty: Easy Length: 1.75 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall) Trailhead: Small pull off .3 miles past the Oconee Station State Historic Site entrance. This is a mostly flat and easy trail. Just a simple out and back to a beautiful 60ft tiered waterfall. The parking area is quite small, but you can also park at the Oconee Station State Historic Site and take the nature trail over. Station Cove Falls Trail Guide Yellow Branch Falls Difficulty: Easy Length: 3 miles (1.5-2 hous) Trailhead: Off of SC 28 near Walhalla, SC This is easy trail will take you to a beautiful 50ft waterfall . There’s two parking areas here so be sure to head to the one in the back Yellow Branch Falls Trail Guide Pisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District Travel Time: 1 hour 15-30 minutes Pisgah National Forest is a huge area in North Carolina and is actually split into three different regions. The Pisgah Ranger District is the closest district to Greenville . You’ll find some easy hikes, loads of waterfalls, and great views here. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Moore Cove Falls Difficulty: Easy Length: 1.2 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall) Trailhead: Along 276 in Pisgah National Forest (between Looking Glass Falls & Sliding Rock) You can actually walk behind (or even under) this 50ft waterfall . Since it’s a fairly easy hike, many people go out in their bathing suits. Looking Glass Rock Trail Difficulty: Strenuous Length: ~6 miles Trailhead: Located on National Forest 475 Rd (off of US-276) I would say Looking Glass Rock is one of two iconic sites for this district. And climbing to the top of it was the first thing I wanted to do when I saw it. And the views from it were outstanding . However, the slope of the granite is very steep at the top. If you are afraid of heights, I would stay away. Read Next: Hike to the Top of Looking Glass Rock [Trail Guide] Gorges State Park Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes Hiking to Rainbow Falls was one of the first hikes we did in North Carolina when we moved to the Upstate. (Rainbow Falls is a popular name for a waterfall – see one in Jones Gap & the Smokies .) But Rainbow Falls isn’t the only hike (or waterfall) here. Be sure to check the state park website for more trails! Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Rainbow Falls Difficulty: Moderate Length: 3 miles It’s a bit of a hike down to this waterfall (and therefore back up), but this is one large waterfall . And I’ve heard that you can continue past Rainbow Falls to see a smaller Turtleback Falls. Gorges State Park Whiteside Mountain (below) 1.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville Whiteside Mountain Trail Travel Time: 1 hour 40 minutes Difficulty: Moderate Length: ~2 miles Dog Friendly: Yes Trailhead: Outside of Highlands off of Highway 64 This mountain (and its trail) near Highlands, NC is a loop trail that will take you up to the top of Whiteside Mountain and along the top of it for some pretty amazing views. I was really blown away by them (even on a cloudy day). Be sure to walk the whole loop to get the full experience. Read Next: Your Dog Friendly Weekend Guide to Highlands NC Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Time: 1 hour 45-55 minutes The Blue Ridge Parkway is pretty amazing. I’ve driven the entire Parkway with my dog (camping along the way). But here I’m trying to highlight my favorite trails that you can reach within 2 hours of Greenville. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. Devil’s Courthouse Difficulty: Easy Length: a little less than a mile (30min – 1 hour) Trailhead: Park at the Devil’s Courthouse Overlook (MM 422ish) This trail is super short, but will give you some of the best views in the area . However it is a tough climb up to the viewing platform, so be prepared. Black Balsam Knob Difficulty: Easy Length: 1.5 miles (1ish hour) Trailhead: Located on Black Balsam Road (off of the Blue Ridge Parkway) This is an easy out and back trail that will take you into the Shining Rock Wilderness and to the top of the Black Balsam Knob for some amazing views of the surrounding region . Read Next: Black Balsam Knob Hike [Trail Guide] Glen Falls Trail Travel Time: 1 hour 55 minutes Difficulty: Moderate Length: ~2 miles Dog friendly: Yes Trailhead: Along Glenn Falls Road outside of Highlands, NC This trail, like the Whiteside one above, is also outside of Highlands, NC. The trail switchbacks down the mountain , looping back towards the creek several times. And there are some pretty good views of the cascades on the way down. But know that it’s all downhill, and then all uphill.
Markdown	[Skip to content](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#primary) [Musings of a Rover](https://www.musingsofarover.com/) - [Blog](https://www.musingsofarover.com/blog/) - [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnn0XI2DyBClso-mcvQe_GQ) - [Acadia National Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/visiting-acadia-national-park/) - [Greenville Guide](https://www.musingsofarover.com/greenville-guide/) Close Menu - [Blog](https://www.musingsofarover.com/blog/) - [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnn0XI2DyBClso-mcvQe_GQ) - [Your Guide To Greenville, SC](https://www.musingsofarover.com/greenville-guide/) - [US National Parks](https://www.musingsofarover.com/national-parks/) - [Acadia National Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/visiting-acadia-national-park/) - [Great Smoky Mountains National Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/visiting-great-smoky-mountains/) - [Free Travel Itineraries](https://www.musingsofarover.com/travel-itineraries/) - [About](https://www.musingsofarover.com/about/) - [Places](https://www.musingsofarover.com/places/) - [US National Parks](https://www.musingsofarover.com/national-parks/) - [Acadia National Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/visiting-acadia-national-park/) - [Great Smoky Mountains National Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/visiting-great-smoky-mountains/) - [Free Travel Itineraries](https://www.musingsofarover.com/travel-itineraries/) - [Contact Me](https://www.musingsofarover.com/contact-me/) - [Places](https://www.musingsofarover.com/places/) - [About](https://www.musingsofarover.com/about/) [Dog Friendly](https://www.musingsofarover.com/category/dog-friendly/) \\| [Greenville](https://www.musingsofarover.com/category/greenville/) \\| [Hiking](https://www.musingsofarover.com/category/outdoor-adventure/hiking/) \\| [North Carolina](https://www.musingsofarover.com/category/united-states/north-carolina/) # The Best Places to Go Hiking Near Greenville, SC Some of my favorite parks, forests, and trails near Greenville, SC to get my hiking fix. Updated in August 2023 ![best places to go hiking in greenville sc](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20640%20427'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![best places to go hiking in greenville sc](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/hikingingreenville-1.jpg) Are you an outdoors lover? Or are you just looking to get out of your house for a few hours? Either way, Greenville has you covered. With so many state parks within an hours drive and with the Blue Ridge Mountains nearby, there’s so much to explore. Here are my favorite places to go hiking near Greenville, SC. Now “the outdoors” and Greenville have both grown in popularity recently. Anyone who lives in Greenville knows that people are moving here everyday. So more and more people are hitting the trails. What I mean by all of this is that, well, *many of the places featured here are now very popular.* Expect trails to be more crowded and parking lots to fill up by 9am on weekends year round (you can thank our mild winters for that). So if you want to escape the crowds, try to go to the less popular areas or trails. This may mean you’ll miss the view, but, on the other hand, you may not have to share your hike with hundreds of others. One last thing to consider are the fees to enter the below parks and such. When considering your outing, be aware entry fees may apply. For example, South Carolina State Parks have an entry fee. I don’t mind paying a small entry fee to help my parks. But it’s something to keep in mind. ## Table of Contents - [Under 1 Hour Away From Greenville](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#under-1-hour-away-from-greenville) - [Paris Mountain State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#paris-mountain-state-park) - [Conestee Nature Preserve](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#conestee-nature-preserve) - [Cedar Falls Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#cedar-falls-park) - [Table Rock State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#table-rock-state-park) - [Jones Gap State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#jones-gap-state-park) - [Caesars Head State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#caesars-head-state-park) - [1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#1-15-hours-away-from-greenville) - [Dupont State Forest](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#dupont-state-forest) - [Whitewater Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#whitewater-falls) - [Chimney Rock State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#chimney-rock-state-park) - [Sumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#sumter-national-forest-andrew-pickens-district) - [Pisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#pisgah-national-forest-pisgah-ranger-district) - [Gorges State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#gorges-state-park) - [1\.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#15-2-hours-away-from-greenville) - [Whiteside Mountain Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#whiteside-mountain-trail) - [Blue Ridge Parkway](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#blue-ridge-parkway) - [Glen Falls Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#glen-falls-trail) *** ##### Hiking Near Greenville SC ### Under 1 Hour Away From Greenville #### [Paris Mountain State Park](https://southcarolinaparks.com/paris-mountain) Travel Time: 15-20 minutes This is the closest state park to Greenville, SC and it’s the one I head to most often when I just have a couple of hours and don’t want to overthink it. I’ve hiked most of the trails in the park. For a longer description of each trail, check out my [Paris Mountain Hiking Guide](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-paris-mountain/). Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Lake Placid Loop - Difficulty: Easy - Length: .75 miles (under 1 hour) - I love the waterfall by the dam. ##### Upper Mountain Loop - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 3 mile loop (1-1.5 hours) - I’m not sure what to call this route, but it’s a loop of the upper trails (Brissy Ridge-\> Kanuga -\> To Firetower -\> Firetower -\> Sulphur Springs). It’s fairly level and is my number 1 go to hike. ##### Sulphur Springs Trail - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: 3.6 mile loop (2 hours) - This longer loop goes from the lower section of the park up to the top and back down again. It’s a fairly tough climb if you’re not in hiking shape, so make sure you’re prepared. And I’d do the loop counter clockwise so you’re coming down the steepest part. ##### Read Next: [Paris Mountain Hiking Guide](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-paris-mountain/) ![Hiking in Paris Mountain State Park](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%20534'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Hiking in Paris Mountain State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/paris-mountain-9-800x534.jpg) Lake Placid Loop *** #### [Conestee Nature Preserve](https://conesteepreserve.org/) Travel Time: 15-20 minutes When I want something more than just a walk but less than a state park, I like to head to Conestee Nature Preserve. Plus they recently did a lot of maintenance in the Preserve and the trails now have blazes and better signs, and there’s a new map with route suggestions to help you navigate. Check out [the map](https://conesteepreserve.org/plan-a-visit/) (a link to the latest should be found on that page) before you go. You can also find the map at most entrances (check the kiosks) as well as at a few intersections within the Preserve. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Yellow Route - Difficulty: Easy - Access: Via the Reedy River Bridge Entrance (E2) at the back of the North Entrance to Conestee Park. - Length: 2.2 mile loop (1-2 hours) - This loop heads into the park towards the Swamp Rabbit Trail. It’s got a good mix of paved walkways, boardwalks, and observation decks. It’s fairly busy as I feel like this is the main entrance to the Preserve. But if you’re looking for more trails, there are loads of them in this area. (Want a route with a more natural surface? Try the green route!) ##### Pink Route - Difficulty: Easy - Access: Near the Conestee Mill off of Spanco Dr (S1). The parking lot here is small. - This out and back and trail is an extension of the Swamp Rabbit Trail. The trail is paved and is a nice little walk, but it is farther away from the other trails in the Preserve. It also feels farther away than the bustling area around Conestee Park. ![Conestee Nature Reserve](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Conestee Nature Reserve](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/conesteenaturepark-1.jpg) *** #### [Cedar Falls Park](https://greenvillerec.com/parks/cedar-falls/) Travel Time: 30 minutes This small county park has a lot to offer. You can piece together a few of the walking trails for a nice little hike. The Reedy River widens here and you can see remnants of old dams as well as a few small waterfalls as the river cascades over the rocks and boulders. Plus restrooms, sand volleyball, and a big playground. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### [Forest + River + Nature Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/cedar-falls-park/) - Difficulty: Easy - Length: ~2 miles (1 hour or so) - If you park at the main lot (the one by the shelter & bathrooms) and head towards the waterfall along the paved Forest Trail. Then you can head down to take in all the dams/rapids. (And even learn a little about the Cherokee who lived here and the dams you can still see the remnants of.) Then head back along the longer Nature Trail to make this a decent little hike. ![Cedar Falls Park Hiking in Greenville](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Cedar Falls Park Hiking in Greenville](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/cedarfallspark-1.jpg) *** #### [Table Rock State Park](https://southcarolinaparks.com/table-rock) Travel Time: 40 minutes I think Table Rock is one of the icons of the Upstate. Every time I see it along Highway 11 it still strikes me with its beauty. And though the quintessential hike is [the hike to the top of Table Rock](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-the-table-rock-trail/), the park has several other options to choose from. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Carrick Creek Trail - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 2 miles (1 hour or so) - I like this trail as it’s a bit more difficult than the Lakeside Loop Trail, but doesn’t include intense climbs. You’ll have wonderful views of small waterfalls along the creek. ##### [Table Rock Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-the-table-rock-trail/) - Difficulty: Strenuous - Length: ~7 miles (5-6 hours) - I consider this to be the main hike in the park. It’s a tough climb up to the top of Table Rock, but the views are amazing. If you’re not up to hiking the whole way, there is a halfway point that has one hell of a view. ##### Read Next: [Hiking the Table Rock Trail \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-the-table-rock-trail/) ![table rock viewpoint](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![table rock viewpoint](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/table-rock-trail-8.jpg) *** #### [Jones Gap State Park](https://southcarolinaparks.com/jones-gap) Travel Time: 40 minutes Jones Gap is a beautiful, but small state park. The parking there is very, very limited. In fact on the weekends and holidays, you have to reserve your parking spot in advance (and pay an additional fee). Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### [Jones Gap Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/jones-gap-waterfall/) - Difficulty: Easy to Moderate - Length: 3.2 miles (2ish hours) - This trail follows the Middle Saluda River. It definitely goes up, but there aren’t any intense steep sections. The waterfall will be on your right as the trail keeps going uphill following the stream. ##### [Rainbow Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/rainbow-falls-in-jones-gap/) - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: 4.4 miles (2.5-4 hours) - The first mile or so of this trail isn’t so bad as it follows the Middle Saluda River. After it crosses over the river though, the trail starts to climb. And climb. (There is over 1,200ft of elevation gain here.) If you’re up for it though, the waterfall at the end is beautiful. *** #### [Caesars Head State Park](https://southcarolinaparks.com/caesars-head) Travel Time: 55 minutes Part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, Caesars Head seems like a small park, but it’s got loads to offer. The Raven Cliff Falls hike was the one of the first hikes I did in the area. If you hike any of the less popular trails, I would stop by the visitor center to snag some proper maps. Some trails are dog friendly. Some are not. I’ve indicated which below. Check at the Park Office for details on others. ##### [Raven Cliff Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/raven-cliff-falls/) - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: 4 miles (3 hours) - Dog Friendly: Yes - Trailhead: [One miles past the Visitor Center](https://goo.gl/maps/3LFaiUaMy4vU2Fw99) - This trail will take you to the Raven Cliff Falls Overlook (which is across a small valley from the waterfall). The trail does have a fair amount of up and down (specifically down to the viewpoint), so be prepared for that. And though the view of the 420ft Raven Cliff Falls is set far back, it’s still pretty impressive. ![raven cliff falls](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![raven cliff falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/raven-cliff-falls-4.jpg) *** ### 1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville #### [Dupont State Forest](https://www.dupontstaterecreationalforest.com/) Travel Time: 1 hour 5 minutes Dupont State Forest is located over the border in North Carolina and it’s an amazing location. There are dozens of trails and different kinds of hiking opportunities. Plus so many waterfalls. But this forest is very popular. Be sure to get there early. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### [Three Waterfall Hike](https://www.musingsofarover.com/dupont-state-forest-waterfalls/) - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: ~5.5 miles (3+ hours – factor in time at the waterfalls) - This hike is pretty amazing. All three of these waterfalls (Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls) are super impressive waterfalls. And if you want to cool down, you can wade in the waters beneath Hooker Falls & High Falls. ##### [Stone Mountain](https://www.musingsofarover.com/stone-mountain-dupont-state-forest/) - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: 2.8 miles (2-2.5 hours) - Stone Mountain is the highest point in the area and has some impressive views (especially if the leaves are down). And it’s not as popular as some of the waterfall trails in the area. ![Dupont State Forest: High Falls](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%20533'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Dupont State Forest: High Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dupontstateforest-16.jpg) High Falls *** #### [Whitewater Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-the-whitewater-falls/) Travel Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes Want to see to the tallest waterfall this side of the Rockies? Enter Whitewater Falls. Now this waterfall is split into 2 sections that are accessed very differently. The Upper section is in NC, and has a short walk to a viewing platform. The Lower section is definitely a hike, is less busy, but is no less impressive. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Lower Whitewater Falls - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: ~4.6 miles - Trailhead: [Located on Bad Creed Rd (off of SC-130)](https://goo.gl/maps/7B6kVQBjXpuB8K9JA) - The viewing platform for the lower falls is set across the valley from the waterfall. You’ll see most of it through a break in the trees. I still really enjoyed the hike and the view, but don’t expect to be close. ##### Upper Whitewater Falls - Difficulty: Easy - Length: ~0.6 miles (less than an hour - Trailhead: [Located off of NC 281](https://goo.gl/maps/ABJqzz2a5jEyL13k9) - Walk to the back of the parking lot and follow the paved trail. You can see a glimpse of it when you reach the end of the trail. But for a closer look, take the stairs to your right down to the viewing platform. ##### Read Next: [Hiking the Whitewater Falls Trails \[Upper & Lower Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-the-whitewater-falls/) ![Upper whitewater falls](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Upper whitewater falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/whitewater-falls-17.jpg) Upper Whitewater Falls *** #### [Chimney Rock State Park](https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/) Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes This small but super impressive state park is known for Chimney Rock – monolith that’s become an iconic site in this part of North Carolina. As well as taking in the sites from Chimney Rock itself, there are a few hikes in this area. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Exclamation Point - Difficulty: Easy - Length: less than a mile (30 minutes) - This short trail starts opposite the stairs to Chimney Rock and continues up the mountainside. You’ll stop by the Opera Box, Devil’s Head, and end at Exclamation Point with sweeping views of the Hickory Nut Gorge around you. If you want more, continue along the Skyline Trail. ##### Hickory Nut Falls Trail - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 1.5 miles (1 hour) - If you want an easy, mostly flat trail, then this one is for you. Plus it’ll take you to the base of Hickory Nut Falls (a 404ft tall waterfall). A viewing platform is position right at the base where you’ll almost fill the mist on your face. ![greenville in spring - chimney rock state park](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%20534'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![greenville in spring - chimney rock state park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/things-to-do-in-greenville-in-spring-8-800x534.jpg) *** #### Sumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes Sumter National Forest is broken into 3 districts. The Andrew Pickens District is in the north west corner of the state in Oconee County. This beautiful area has an abundance of mountains and waterfalls to explore. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### [Station Cove Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/station-cove-falls/) - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 1.75 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall) - Trailhead: [Small pull off](https://goo.gl/maps/8tyggUhnQngfi1Mr8) .3 miles past the Oconee Station State Historic Site entrance. - This is a mostly flat and easy trail. Just a simple out and back to a beautiful 60ft tiered waterfall. The parking area is quite small, but you can also park at the Oconee Station State Historic Site and take the nature trail over. [Station Cove Falls Trail Guide](https://www.musingsofarover.com/station-cove-falls/) ![station cove falls](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![station cove falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/station-cove-falls-7.jpg) ##### Yellow Branch Falls - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 3 miles (1.5-2 hous) - Trailhead: [Off of SC 28 near Walhalla, SC](https://goo.gl/maps/Ck4kG9Jwc2jmfdcZ8) - This is easy trail will take you to a beautiful 50ft waterfall. There’s two parking areas here so be sure to head to the one in the back [Yellow Branch Falls Trail Guide](https://www.musingsofarover.com/yellow-branch-falls-trail/) ![yellow branch falls](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![yellow branch falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/yellow-branch-falls-2.jpg) *** #### [Pisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District](https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48114) Travel Time: 1 hour 15-30 minutes Pisgah National Forest is a huge area in North Carolina and is actually split into three different regions. The Pisgah Ranger District is the closest district to Greenville. You’ll find some easy hikes, loads of waterfalls, and great views here. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Moore Cove Falls - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 1.2 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall) - Trailhead: [Along 276 in Pisgah National Forest](https://goo.gl/maps/5GkC2sJLXmUrDyuA7) (between Looking Glass Falls & Sliding Rock) - You can actually walk behind (or even under) this 50ft waterfall. Since it’s a fairly easy hike, many people go out in their bathing suits. ##### [Looking Glass Rock Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/looking-glass-rock/) - Difficulty: Strenuous - Length: ~6 miles - Trailhead: [Located on National Forest 475 Rd (off of US-276)](https://goo.gl/maps/TNuNNiCJ2tbeH9qK9) - I would say Looking Glass Rock is one of two iconic sites for this district. And climbing to the top of it was the first thing I wanted to do when I saw it. And the views from it were outstanding. However, the slope of the granite is very steep at the top. If you are afraid of heights, I would stay away. ##### Read Next: [Hike to the Top of Looking Glass Rock \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/looking-glass-rock/) ![Looking Glass Rock view](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Looking Glass Rock view](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/looking-glass-rock-hike-12.jpg) *** #### [Gorges State Park](https://www.ncparks.gov/gorges-state-park/home) Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes Hiking to Rainbow Falls was one of the first hikes we did in North Carolina when we moved to the Upstate. (Rainbow Falls is a popular name for a waterfall – see one in [Jones Gap](https://www.musingsofarover.com/rainbow-falls-in-jones-gap/) & [the Smokies](https://www.musingsofarover.com/rainbow-falls-trail/).) But Rainbow Falls isn’t the only hike (or waterfall) here. Be sure to check the state park website for more trails\! Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Rainbow Falls - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: 3 miles - It’s a bit of a hike down to this waterfall (and therefore back up), but this is one large waterfall. And I’ve heard that you can continue past Rainbow Falls to see a smaller Turtleback Falls. ![greenville in fall - gorges state park](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%201203'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![greenville in fall - gorges state park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/things-to-do-in-greenville-in-fall-15-800x1203.jpg) Gorges State Park ![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%201200'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/things-to-do-in-highlands-10-800x1200.jpg) Whiteside Mountain (below) *** ### 1\.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville #### [Whiteside Mountain Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/whiteside-mountain/) Travel Time: 1 hour 40 minutes - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: ~2 miles - Dog Friendly: Yes - Trailhead: [Outside of Highlands off of Highway 64](https://goo.gl/maps/atSEjYBtThhcJoMJ6) - This mountain (and its trail) near Highlands, NC is a loop trail that will take you up to the top of Whiteside Mountain and along the top of it for some pretty amazing views. I was really blown away by them (even on a cloudy day). Be sure to walk the whole loop to get the full experience. ##### Read Next: [Your Dog Friendly Weekend Guide to Highlands NC](https://www.musingsofarover.com/dog-friendly-highlands/) ![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/things-to-do-in-highlands-14.jpg) *** #### [Blue Ridge Parkway](https://www.musingsofarover.com/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip/) Travel Time: 1 hour 45-55 minutes The Blue Ridge Parkway is pretty amazing. I’ve [driven the entire Parkway](https://www.musingsofarover.com/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip/) with my dog (camping along the way). But here I’m trying to highlight my favorite trails that you can reach within 2 hours of Greenville. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### [Devil’s Courthouse](https://www.musingsofarover.com/devils-courthouse/) - Difficulty: Easy - Length: a little less than a mile (30min – 1 hour) - Trailhead: [Park at the Devil’s Courthouse Overlook (MM 422ish)](https://goo.gl/maps/7xi6AjG9BuvwZKAm9) - This trail is super short, but will give you some of the best views in the area. However it is a tough climb up to the viewing platform, so be prepared. ##### [Black Balsam Knob](https://www.musingsofarover.com/black-balsam-knob/) - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 1.5 miles (1ish hour) - Trailhead: [Located on Black Balsam Road](https://goo.gl/maps/WeinjqFHxR8NxrWH9) (off of the Blue Ridge Parkway) - This is an easy out and back trail that will take you into the Shining Rock Wilderness and to the top of the Black Balsam Knob for some amazing views of the surrounding region. ##### Read Next: [Black Balsam Knob Hike \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/black-balsam-knob/) ![view from Devils Courthouse](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![view from Devils Courthouse](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/devils-courthouse-2.jpg) *** #### [Glen Falls Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/glenn-falls-trail/) Travel Time: 1 hour 55 minutes - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: ~2 miles - Dog friendly: Yes - Trailhead: [Along Glenn Falls Road outside of Highlands, NC](https://goo.gl/maps/VrZfFibPHaFnMUYy9) - This trail, like the Whiteside one above, is also outside of Highlands, NC. The trail switchbacks down the mountain, looping back towards the creek several times. And there are some pretty good views of the cascades on the way down. But know that it’s all downhill, and then all uphill. ![hiking Glenn Falls Trail, Highlands NC](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201000%20667'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![hiking Glenn Falls Trail, Highlands NC](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/things-to-do-in-highlands-28.jpg) ![Are you looking for the best trails near Greenville, SC? Discover what South Carolina's (and North Carolina's) State Parks, Forests, and Preserves have to offer\!](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20640%20960'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Are you looking for the best trails near Greenville, SC? Discover what South Carolina's (and North Carolina's) State Parks, Forests, and Preserves have to offer\!](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/hikingneargreenvillesc-pinterest.jpg) [Share on X (Twitter)](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=The%20Best%20Places%20to%20Go%20Hiking%20Near%20Greenville%2C%20SC&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.musingsofarover.com%2Fhiking-near-greenville-sc%2F&via=musingsofarover&related=musingsofarover) [Share on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.musingsofarover.com%2Fhiking-near-greenville-sc%2F) [Share on Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.musingsofarover.com%2Fhiking-near-greenville-sc%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.musingsofarover.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2021%2F01%2Fhikingneargreenvillesc-pinterest.jpg&description=Are%20you%20looking%20for%20the%20best%20trails%20near%20Greenville%2C%20SC%3F%20Discover%20what%20South%20Carolina%27s%20%28and%20North%20Carolina%27s%29%20State%20Parks%2C%20Forests%2C%20and%20Preserves%20have%20to%20offer%21) ###### Related Posts [![Hike the Raven Rock Loop \[Trail Guide\]](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Hike the Raven Rock Loop \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/raven-rock-loop-trail-guide-8-500x500.jpg)](https://www.musingsofarover.com/raven-rock-loop/) ## [Hike the Raven Rock Loop \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/raven-rock-loop/) [![Devil’s Courthouse on the Blue Ridge Parkway \[Trail Guide\]](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Devil’s Courthouse on the Blue Ridge Parkway \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/devils-courthouse-1-500x500.jpg)](https://www.musingsofarover.com/devils-courthouse/) ## [Devil’s Courthouse on the Blue Ridge Parkway \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/devils-courthouse/) [![Hiking The Bubble Rock Trail](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Hiking The Bubble Rock Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/bubble-rock-trail-1-500x500.jpg)](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-bubble-rock-trail/) ## [Hiking The Bubble Rock Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-bubble-rock-trail/) ###### Recent Posts [![dogs at duck outer banks beach](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20150%20150'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![dogs at duck outer banks beach](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/duck-outer-banks-featured-1-150x150.jpg)](https://www.musingsofarover.com/duck-outer-banks/) #### [Plan Your Trip to Duck, Outer Banks \[Dog Friendly Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/duck-outer-banks/) [![fall foliage near greenville sc](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20150%20150'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![fall foliage near greenville sc](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/fall-foliage-greenville-sc-featured-1-150x150.jpg)](https://www.musingsofarover.com/fall-foliage-greenville-sc/) #### [Where to See Fall Foliage Near Greenville, SC in 2023](https://www.musingsofarover.com/fall-foliage-greenville-sc/) [![Carolina Renaissance Festival - 5 tips for your visit](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20150%20150'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Carolina Renaissance Festival - 5 tips for your visit](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/carolina-renaissance-festival-15-150x150.jpg)](https://www.musingsofarover.com/renaissance-fairs-near-greenville-sc/) #### [Discover the Best Renaissance Fairs near Greenville, SC](https://www.musingsofarover.com/renaissance-fairs-near-greenville-sc/) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20577%20577'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/laura-about-sidebar-1.png) Hey there! I'm Laura. I have a job and a house and bills I pay. (Adulting at its finest.) But I still find time to explore and see the world. You know, climbing, hiking, swimming, surfing, beach-lounging... And now I want to help you find that balance too. So, what are you waiting for? Let's do this. [Read More](https://www.musingsofarover.com/about) ###### Travel Itineraries [Portugal](https://www.musingsofarover.com/portugal-itinerary/) [Maui](https://www.musingsofarover.com/maui-itinerary/) [Italy](https://www.musingsofarover.com/italy-itinerary) [Costa Rica](https://www.musingsofarover.com/costa-rica-itinerary) [Bar Harbor](https://www.musingsofarover.com/bar-harbor-itinerary) [Bermuda](https://www.musingsofarover.com/bermuda-itinerary) [Alaska](https://www.musingsofarover.com/7-day-alaska-itinerary) ###### Related Posts [![Hike to Bridal Veil Falls in Dupont State Forest \[Trail Guide\]](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Hike to Bridal Veil Falls in Dupont State Forest \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/bridal-veil-falls-dupont-state-forest-6-500x500.jpg)](https://www.musingsofarover.com/bridal-veil-falls-dupont-state-forest/) ## [Hike to Bridal Veil Falls in Dupont State Forest \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/bridal-veil-falls-dupont-state-forest/) [![Hike the Raven Rock Loop \[Trail Guide\]](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Hike the Raven Rock Loop \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/raven-rock-loop-trail-guide-8-500x500.jpg)](https://www.musingsofarover.com/raven-rock-loop/) ## [Hike the Raven Rock Loop \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/raven-rock-loop/) [![Hike the Bubbles Trail to the North Bubble Summit](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20500%20500'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Hike the Bubbles Trail to the North Bubble Summit](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/bubbles-trail-north-5-500x500.jpg)](https://www.musingsofarover.com/bubbles-trail/) ## [Hike the Bubbles Trail to the North Bubble Summit](https://www.musingsofarover.com/bubbles-trail/) ### Leave a Reply [Cancel reply](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#respond) This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. 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Readable Markdown	Are you an outdoors lover? Or are you just looking to get out of your house for a few hours? Either way, Greenville has you covered. With so many state parks within an hours drive and with the Blue Ridge Mountains nearby, there’s so much to explore. Here are my favorite places to go hiking near Greenville, SC. Now “the outdoors” and Greenville have both grown in popularity recently. Anyone who lives in Greenville knows that people are moving here everyday. So more and more people are hitting the trails. What I mean by all of this is that, well, *many of the places featured here are now very popular.* Expect trails to be more crowded and parking lots to fill up by 9am on weekends year round (you can thank our mild winters for that). So if you want to escape the crowds, try to go to the less popular areas or trails. This may mean you’ll miss the view, but, on the other hand, you may not have to share your hike with hundreds of others. One last thing to consider are the fees to enter the below parks and such. When considering your outing, be aware entry fees may apply. For example, South Carolina State Parks have an entry fee. I don’t mind paying a small entry fee to help my parks. But it’s something to keep in mind. ## Table of Contents - [Under 1 Hour Away From Greenville](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#under-1-hour-away-from-greenville) - [Paris Mountain State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#paris-mountain-state-park) - [Conestee Nature Preserve](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#conestee-nature-preserve) - [Cedar Falls Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#cedar-falls-park) - [Table Rock State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#table-rock-state-park) - [Jones Gap State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#jones-gap-state-park) - [Caesars Head State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#caesars-head-state-park) - [1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#1-15-hours-away-from-greenville) - [Dupont State Forest](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#dupont-state-forest) - [Whitewater Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#whitewater-falls) - [Chimney Rock State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#chimney-rock-state-park) - [Sumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#sumter-national-forest-andrew-pickens-district) - [Pisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#pisgah-national-forest-pisgah-ranger-district) - [Gorges State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#gorges-state-park) - [1\.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#15-2-hours-away-from-greenville) - [Whiteside Mountain Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#whiteside-mountain-trail) - [Blue Ridge Parkway](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#blue-ridge-parkway) - [Glen Falls Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-near-greenville-sc/#glen-falls-trail) *** ##### Hiking Near Greenville SC ### Under 1 Hour Away From Greenville #### [Paris Mountain State Park](https://southcarolinaparks.com/paris-mountain) Travel Time: 15-20 minutes This is the closest state park to Greenville, SC and it’s the one I head to most often when I just have a couple of hours and don’t want to overthink it. I’ve hiked most of the trails in the park. For a longer description of each trail, check out my [Paris Mountain Hiking Guide](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-paris-mountain/). Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Lake Placid Loop - Difficulty: Easy - Length: .75 miles (under 1 hour) - I love the waterfall by the dam. ##### Upper Mountain Loop - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 3 mile loop (1-1.5 hours) - I’m not sure what to call this route, but it’s a loop of the upper trails (Brissy Ridge-\> Kanuga -\> To Firetower -\> Firetower -\> Sulphur Springs). It’s fairly level and is my number 1 go to hike. ##### Sulphur Springs Trail - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: 3.6 mile loop (2 hours) - This longer loop goes from the lower section of the park up to the top and back down again. It’s a fairly tough climb if you’re not in hiking shape, so make sure you’re prepared. And I’d do the loop counter clockwise so you’re coming down the steepest part. ##### Read Next: [Paris Mountain Hiking Guide](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-paris-mountain/) ![Hiking in Paris Mountain State Park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/paris-mountain-9-800x534.jpg) Lake Placid Loop *** #### [Conestee Nature Preserve](https://conesteepreserve.org/) Travel Time: 15-20 minutes When I want something more than just a walk but less than a state park, I like to head to Conestee Nature Preserve. Plus they recently did a lot of maintenance in the Preserve and the trails now have blazes and better signs, and there’s a new map with route suggestions to help you navigate. Check out [the map](https://conesteepreserve.org/plan-a-visit/) (a link to the latest should be found on that page) before you go. You can also find the map at most entrances (check the kiosks) as well as at a few intersections within the Preserve. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Yellow Route - Difficulty: Easy - Access: Via the Reedy River Bridge Entrance (E2) at the back of the North Entrance to Conestee Park. - Length: 2.2 mile loop (1-2 hours) - This loop heads into the park towards the Swamp Rabbit Trail. It’s got a good mix of paved walkways, boardwalks, and observation decks. It’s fairly busy as I feel like this is the main entrance to the Preserve. But if you’re looking for more trails, there are loads of them in this area. (Want a route with a more natural surface? Try the green route!) ##### Pink Route - Difficulty: Easy - Access: Near the Conestee Mill off of Spanco Dr (S1). The parking lot here is small. - This out and back and trail is an extension of the Swamp Rabbit Trail. The trail is paved and is a nice little walk, but it is farther away from the other trails in the Preserve. It also feels farther away than the bustling area around Conestee Park. ![Conestee Nature Reserve](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/conesteenaturepark-1.jpg) *** #### [Cedar Falls Park](https://greenvillerec.com/parks/cedar-falls/) Travel Time: 30 minutes This small county park has a lot to offer. You can piece together a few of the walking trails for a nice little hike. The Reedy River widens here and you can see remnants of old dams as well as a few small waterfalls as the river cascades over the rocks and boulders. Plus restrooms, sand volleyball, and a big playground. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### [Forest + River + Nature Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/cedar-falls-park/) - Difficulty: Easy - Length: ~2 miles (1 hour or so) - If you park at the main lot (the one by the shelter & bathrooms) and head towards the waterfall along the paved Forest Trail. Then you can head down to take in all the dams/rapids. (And even learn a little about the Cherokee who lived here and the dams you can still see the remnants of.) Then head back along the longer Nature Trail to make this a decent little hike. ![Cedar Falls Park Hiking in Greenville](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/cedarfallspark-1.jpg) *** #### [Table Rock State Park](https://southcarolinaparks.com/table-rock) Travel Time: 40 minutes I think Table Rock is one of the icons of the Upstate. Every time I see it along Highway 11 it still strikes me with its beauty. And though the quintessential hike is [the hike to the top of Table Rock](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-the-table-rock-trail/), the park has several other options to choose from. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Carrick Creek Trail - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 2 miles (1 hour or so) - I like this trail as it’s a bit more difficult than the Lakeside Loop Trail, but doesn’t include intense climbs. You’ll have wonderful views of small waterfalls along the creek. ##### [Table Rock Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-the-table-rock-trail/) - Difficulty: Strenuous - Length: ~7 miles (5-6 hours) - I consider this to be the main hike in the park. It’s a tough climb up to the top of Table Rock, but the views are amazing. If you’re not up to hiking the whole way, there is a halfway point that has one hell of a view. ##### Read Next: [Hiking the Table Rock Trail \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-the-table-rock-trail/) ![table rock viewpoint](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/table-rock-trail-8.jpg) *** #### [Jones Gap State Park](https://southcarolinaparks.com/jones-gap) Travel Time: 40 minutes Jones Gap is a beautiful, but small state park. The parking there is very, very limited. In fact on the weekends and holidays, you have to reserve your parking spot in advance (and pay an additional fee). Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### [Jones Gap Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/jones-gap-waterfall/) - Difficulty: Easy to Moderate - Length: 3.2 miles (2ish hours) - This trail follows the Middle Saluda River. It definitely goes up, but there aren’t any intense steep sections. The waterfall will be on your right as the trail keeps going uphill following the stream. ##### [Rainbow Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/rainbow-falls-in-jones-gap/) - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: 4.4 miles (2.5-4 hours) - The first mile or so of this trail isn’t so bad as it follows the Middle Saluda River. After it crosses over the river though, the trail starts to climb. And climb. (There is over 1,200ft of elevation gain here.) If you’re up for it though, the waterfall at the end is beautiful. *** #### [Caesars Head State Park](https://southcarolinaparks.com/caesars-head) Travel Time: 55 minutes Part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, Caesars Head seems like a small park, but it’s got loads to offer. The Raven Cliff Falls hike was the one of the first hikes I did in the area. If you hike any of the less popular trails, I would stop by the visitor center to snag some proper maps. Some trails are dog friendly. Some are not. I’ve indicated which below. Check at the Park Office for details on others. ##### [Raven Cliff Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/raven-cliff-falls/) - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: 4 miles (3 hours) - Dog Friendly: Yes - Trailhead: [One miles past the Visitor Center](https://goo.gl/maps/3LFaiUaMy4vU2Fw99) - This trail will take you to the Raven Cliff Falls Overlook (which is across a small valley from the waterfall). The trail does have a fair amount of up and down (specifically down to the viewpoint), so be prepared for that. And though the view of the 420ft Raven Cliff Falls is set far back, it’s still pretty impressive. ![raven cliff falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/raven-cliff-falls-4.jpg) *** ### 1 – 1.5 Hours Away From Greenville #### [Dupont State Forest](https://www.dupontstaterecreationalforest.com/) Travel Time: 1 hour 5 minutes Dupont State Forest is located over the border in North Carolina and it’s an amazing location. There are dozens of trails and different kinds of hiking opportunities. Plus so many waterfalls. But this forest is very popular. Be sure to get there early. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### [Three Waterfall Hike](https://www.musingsofarover.com/dupont-state-forest-waterfalls/) - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: ~5.5 miles (3+ hours – factor in time at the waterfalls) - This hike is pretty amazing. All three of these waterfalls (Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls) are super impressive waterfalls. And if you want to cool down, you can wade in the waters beneath Hooker Falls & High Falls. ##### [Stone Mountain](https://www.musingsofarover.com/stone-mountain-dupont-state-forest/) - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: 2.8 miles (2-2.5 hours) - Stone Mountain is the highest point in the area and has some impressive views (especially if the leaves are down). And it’s not as popular as some of the waterfall trails in the area. ![Dupont State Forest: High Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dupontstateforest-16.jpg) High Falls *** #### [Whitewater Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-the-whitewater-falls/) Travel Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes Want to see to the tallest waterfall this side of the Rockies? Enter Whitewater Falls. Now this waterfall is split into 2 sections that are accessed very differently. The Upper section is in NC, and has a short walk to a viewing platform. The Lower section is definitely a hike, is less busy, but is no less impressive. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Lower Whitewater Falls - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: ~4.6 miles - Trailhead: [Located on Bad Creed Rd (off of SC-130)](https://goo.gl/maps/7B6kVQBjXpuB8K9JA) - The viewing platform for the lower falls is set across the valley from the waterfall. You’ll see most of it through a break in the trees. I still really enjoyed the hike and the view, but don’t expect to be close. ##### Upper Whitewater Falls - Difficulty: Easy - Length: ~0.6 miles (less than an hour - Trailhead: [Located off of NC 281](https://goo.gl/maps/ABJqzz2a5jEyL13k9) - Walk to the back of the parking lot and follow the paved trail. You can see a glimpse of it when you reach the end of the trail. But for a closer look, take the stairs to your right down to the viewing platform. ##### Read Next: [Hiking the Whitewater Falls Trails \[Upper & Lower Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/hiking-the-whitewater-falls/) ![Upper whitewater falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/whitewater-falls-17.jpg) Upper Whitewater Falls *** #### [Chimney Rock State Park](https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/) Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes This small but super impressive state park is known for Chimney Rock – monolith that’s become an iconic site in this part of North Carolina. As well as taking in the sites from Chimney Rock itself, there are a few hikes in this area. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Exclamation Point - Difficulty: Easy - Length: less than a mile (30 minutes) - This short trail starts opposite the stairs to Chimney Rock and continues up the mountainside. You’ll stop by the Opera Box, Devil’s Head, and end at Exclamation Point with sweeping views of the Hickory Nut Gorge around you. If you want more, continue along the Skyline Trail. ##### Hickory Nut Falls Trail - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 1.5 miles (1 hour) - If you want an easy, mostly flat trail, then this one is for you. Plus it’ll take you to the base of Hickory Nut Falls (a 404ft tall waterfall). A viewing platform is position right at the base where you’ll almost fill the mist on your face. ![greenville in spring - chimney rock state park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/things-to-do-in-greenville-in-spring-8-800x534.jpg) *** #### Sumter National Forest – Andrew Pickens District Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes Sumter National Forest is broken into 3 districts. The Andrew Pickens District is in the north west corner of the state in Oconee County. This beautiful area has an abundance of mountains and waterfalls to explore. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### [Station Cove Falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/station-cove-falls/) - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 1.75 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall) - Trailhead: [Small pull off](https://goo.gl/maps/8tyggUhnQngfi1Mr8) .3 miles past the Oconee Station State Historic Site entrance. - This is a mostly flat and easy trail. Just a simple out and back to a beautiful 60ft tiered waterfall. The parking area is quite small, but you can also park at the Oconee Station State Historic Site and take the nature trail over. [Station Cove Falls Trail Guide](https://www.musingsofarover.com/station-cove-falls/) ![station cove falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/station-cove-falls-7.jpg) ##### Yellow Branch Falls - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 3 miles (1.5-2 hous) - Trailhead: [Off of SC 28 near Walhalla, SC](https://goo.gl/maps/Ck4kG9Jwc2jmfdcZ8) - This is easy trail will take you to a beautiful 50ft waterfall. There’s two parking areas here so be sure to head to the one in the back [Yellow Branch Falls Trail Guide](https://www.musingsofarover.com/yellow-branch-falls-trail/) ![yellow branch falls](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/yellow-branch-falls-2.jpg) *** #### [Pisgah National Forest – Pisgah Ranger District](https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48114) Travel Time: 1 hour 15-30 minutes Pisgah National Forest is a huge area in North Carolina and is actually split into three different regions. The Pisgah Ranger District is the closest district to Greenville. You’ll find some easy hikes, loads of waterfalls, and great views here. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Moore Cove Falls - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 1.2 miles (1 hour + factor in time at the waterfall) - Trailhead: [Along 276 in Pisgah National Forest](https://goo.gl/maps/5GkC2sJLXmUrDyuA7) (between Looking Glass Falls & Sliding Rock) - You can actually walk behind (or even under) this 50ft waterfall. Since it’s a fairly easy hike, many people go out in their bathing suits. ##### [Looking Glass Rock Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/looking-glass-rock/) - Difficulty: Strenuous - Length: ~6 miles - Trailhead: [Located on National Forest 475 Rd (off of US-276)](https://goo.gl/maps/TNuNNiCJ2tbeH9qK9) - I would say Looking Glass Rock is one of two iconic sites for this district. And climbing to the top of it was the first thing I wanted to do when I saw it. And the views from it were outstanding. However, the slope of the granite is very steep at the top. If you are afraid of heights, I would stay away. ##### Read Next: [Hike to the Top of Looking Glass Rock \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/looking-glass-rock/) ![Looking Glass Rock view](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/looking-glass-rock-hike-12.jpg) *** #### [Gorges State Park](https://www.ncparks.gov/gorges-state-park/home) Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes Hiking to Rainbow Falls was one of the first hikes we did in North Carolina when we moved to the Upstate. (Rainbow Falls is a popular name for a waterfall – see one in [Jones Gap](https://www.musingsofarover.com/rainbow-falls-in-jones-gap/) & [the Smokies](https://www.musingsofarover.com/rainbow-falls-trail/).) But Rainbow Falls isn’t the only hike (or waterfall) here. Be sure to check the state park website for more trails\! Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### Rainbow Falls - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: 3 miles - It’s a bit of a hike down to this waterfall (and therefore back up), but this is one large waterfall. And I’ve heard that you can continue past Rainbow Falls to see a smaller Turtleback Falls. ![greenville in fall - gorges state park](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/things-to-do-in-greenville-in-fall-15-800x1203.jpg) Gorges State Park ![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/things-to-do-in-highlands-10-800x1200.jpg) Whiteside Mountain (below) *** ### 1\.5 – 2 Hours Away From Greenville #### [Whiteside Mountain Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/whiteside-mountain/) Travel Time: 1 hour 40 minutes - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: ~2 miles - Dog Friendly: Yes - Trailhead: [Outside of Highlands off of Highway 64](https://goo.gl/maps/atSEjYBtThhcJoMJ6) - This mountain (and its trail) near Highlands, NC is a loop trail that will take you up to the top of Whiteside Mountain and along the top of it for some pretty amazing views. I was really blown away by them (even on a cloudy day). Be sure to walk the whole loop to get the full experience. ##### Read Next: [Your Dog Friendly Weekend Guide to Highlands NC](https://www.musingsofarover.com/dog-friendly-highlands/) ![whiteside mountain trail, highlands nc](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/things-to-do-in-highlands-14.jpg) *** #### [Blue Ridge Parkway](https://www.musingsofarover.com/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip/) Travel Time: 1 hour 45-55 minutes The Blue Ridge Parkway is pretty amazing. I’ve [driven the entire Parkway](https://www.musingsofarover.com/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip/) with my dog (camping along the way). But here I’m trying to highlight my favorite trails that you can reach within 2 hours of Greenville. Trails are dog friendly with a 6ft leash. ##### [Devil’s Courthouse](https://www.musingsofarover.com/devils-courthouse/) - Difficulty: Easy - Length: a little less than a mile (30min – 1 hour) - Trailhead: [Park at the Devil’s Courthouse Overlook (MM 422ish)](https://goo.gl/maps/7xi6AjG9BuvwZKAm9) - This trail is super short, but will give you some of the best views in the area. However it is a tough climb up to the viewing platform, so be prepared. ##### [Black Balsam Knob](https://www.musingsofarover.com/black-balsam-knob/) - Difficulty: Easy - Length: 1.5 miles (1ish hour) - Trailhead: [Located on Black Balsam Road](https://goo.gl/maps/WeinjqFHxR8NxrWH9) (off of the Blue Ridge Parkway) - This is an easy out and back trail that will take you into the Shining Rock Wilderness and to the top of the Black Balsam Knob for some amazing views of the surrounding region. ##### Read Next: [Black Balsam Knob Hike \[Trail Guide\]](https://www.musingsofarover.com/black-balsam-knob/) ![view from Devils Courthouse](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/devils-courthouse-2.jpg) *** #### [Glen Falls Trail](https://www.musingsofarover.com/glenn-falls-trail/) Travel Time: 1 hour 55 minutes - Difficulty: Moderate - Length: ~2 miles - Dog friendly: Yes - Trailhead: [Along Glenn Falls Road outside of Highlands, NC](https://goo.gl/maps/VrZfFibPHaFnMUYy9) - This trail, like the Whiteside one above, is also outside of Highlands, NC. The trail switchbacks down the mountain, looping back towards the creek several times. And there are some pretty good views of the cascades on the way down. But know that it’s all downhill, and then all uphill. ![hiking Glenn Falls Trail, Highlands NC](https://www.musingsofarover.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/things-to-do-in-highlands-28.jpg)
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