Isn’t it interesting how so many of the best things in life come with a bit of sacrifice and work? And then after that work, there’s such a sense of satisfaction, especially when there’s a great payoff at the end of the experience. This is the essence of the Hidden Falls Trail we’re excited to share with you, which is a remote, rugged trail in South Carolina leading to a beautiful waterfall.

Hidden Falls Trail is one of 15 remote hiking trails in South Carolina found in Oconee State Park, the most outlying of the 47 state parks.
Mike Bell via AllTrails
The trail stretches for 4.8 miles out and back and is considered a moderate hike. Be prepared for the possibility of climbing over or stooping to walk beneath downed trees that have not yet been cleared from the trail.
Lagena Fant via AllTrails
The rugged nature of this trail also involves some stair-climbing ...
David Macindoe via AllTrails
... as well as narrow pathways with embankments in some areas. It's not a hike for everyone and does require a bit of skill and caution along the way.
Caroline Townes via AllTrails
But you will love the scenery, including distant views of the Blue Ridge Mountains peeking through the trees ...
Blake Robinson via AllTrails
... various types of blooms during the spring season, and more, especially when you reach Hidden Falls.
Steve DuPree via AllTrails
David Macindoe via AllTrails

Related Stories

The 5.2-Mile Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve Trail Might Just Be The Most Enchanting Hike In South Carolina

The 5.2-Mile Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve Trail Might Just Be The Most Enchanting Hike In South Carolina

 A Peaceful Escape Can Be Found Along The Firebreak Trail In South Carolina

A Peaceful Escape Can Be Found Along The Firebreak Trail In South Carolina

 The Under-The-Radar Destination In South Carolina With The Most Beautiful Fall Foliage In The State

The Under-The-Radar Destination In South Carolina With The Most Beautiful Fall Foliage In The State
Keep an eye out for the trail markers directing you which way to go to get to this waterfall. You don't want to miss it!
Vilmarie Nixon via AllTrails
The closer you get, you just may be able to hear the waterfall before you see it.
haley kendal via AllTrails
And then, you'll get a glance of it between the trees just ahead. Don't let this particular vantage point fool you though. Just keep going – you'll see what we mean shortly.
Bryan O’Neal via AllTrails
And there we go, this is what makes the rugged trail work worth it! This waterfall has multiple cascades and its waterflow will vary depending on the conditions.
Roby Leffew via AllTrails
haley kendal via AllTrails
During extreme dry conditions, for example, the falls may not be more than a 50-foot trickle dropping over a series of rock ledges.
Anthony Cruz via AllTrails
The backdrop of the falls will also vary, of course, between seasons. Brilliant foliage will frame the falls during the autumn season.
Marcia Paasch via AllTrails
And if you're here during the colder days of the winter season, you just may feel like you're suddenly in a scene of the movie Frozen!
Mayte Machin via AllTrails

What’s your favorite season for waterfall hikes? What’s the most remote, rugged trail in South Carolina you’ve experienced?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore South Carolina

Featured Addresses
Oconee State Park, 624 State Park Rd, Mountain Rest, SC 29664, USA