Not all watefall trails in the Palmetto State are marked by well-trodden paths and colorful blazes making it easy to stay on track. But some, including the trail to Long Creek Falls, are completely worth the added challenge of actually finding the waterfall when the path isn't worn in or particularly well marked. Throw on those hiking boots and head to Long Creek, South Carolina, to discover a 3.2-mile round trip journey to a waterfall deep in the heart of the Sumter National Forest.
Long Creek Falls stands 50 feet high and is at the confluence of Long Creek and the Chattooga River. The waterfall is breathtaking, but getting here isn't without a few challenges.
You'll start out on an old 4-wheel-drive service road until you reach a cul de sac, where you'll pick up the trail on the right. For the most part, the trail is marked with either pink or orange blazes. And in areas where there are questions, like below, previous hikers have left some obvious clues like this man-made "X" and stone wall blocking the wrong path on the trail.
And this arrow made out of big rocks, pointing hikers in the right direction to get to the waterfall. One of the great things about hiking is it pushes you to use all of your sensibilities. You'll do just that on this trail. And when you get to the fork in the trail, be sure to go right, not left.
After hiking for a little more than a mile, you'll encounter a very rapid descent down to the water. It's rather steep and most people are more comfortable at this point if they have hiking sticks along on the journey. If you have them, be sure to bring them along (you can thank us later).
After dropping way down to the water level, you'll see the waterfall in the distance. It's beautiful, but you're sure to want a closer look.
Getting closer means you'll be forced to wade through knee-deep water for about 30 feet. (Bring dry socks and shoes for the ride home!)
Of course, any time you're walking in water or on wet surfaces, be certain you have sure footing, Wet rocks can be very slippery.
The closer you get, the greater the anticipation for getting an up-close look at this remote waterfall.
Bring a lunch and enjoy a picnic with your view! Arrive on a nice sunny day and find a giant boulder to claim for your dining area.
Just remember to bring a garbage bag and to take out with you what you brought in.
The trail to Long Creek Falls is only lightly trafficked. If you get lucky, you may have this waterfall paradise all to yourself — if you can find it!
The total elevation change on the Long Creek Falls Trail is 551 feet. Bring your hiking sticks to make it more manageable. The trail is accessible year-round. Dogs are allowed, as long as they are leashed. Learn more about the trail from our friends at AllTrails.com!
For more waterfall hikes in South Carolina, hike to Yellow Branch Falls near Walhalla and to Confusion Falls near Cleveland!
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