Previously, we mapped out a fantastic plan to see the fall colors in South Carolina. You can see that trip here. This time, we’ve created another dreamy fall foliage road trip in South Carolina featuring a two-lane road and fall foliage you’ll love. The route includes many places to stop along the way, as well as a stop for food at a popular little mountain eatery you’re sure to “fall” for.

Quick: What’s the best part of the end of summer in South Carolina? The start of fall!

Google Maps [enhanced] SC outline by Darwinek via Wikimedia (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/South_Carolina#/media/File:Flag-map_of_South_Carolina.svg)
The total drive time is less than 90 minutes each way. But the stops on this trip could easily fill an entire day. Click this link to get you started. The whole trip starts at an Oconee County Park on the lake. Enjoy!
South Cove County Park
Flickr/Let Ideas Compete
Facebook/South Cove County Park
This extraordinary park is the first stop on the fall foliage tour. What better place to see the bright colors of fall than from this unique vantage point on the lake? To get there, head to this address: 1099 S Cove Rd., Seneca, South Carolina. Here is the South Cove County Park Facebook page for more information.
Stumphouse Tunnel
TripAdvisor/TimeToTravel2468
TripAdvisor/onemichael
You'll need your flashlight on this stop of the road trip. Once you've made your way through Walhalla you'll be stopping at Tunnel Park to visit the state's only man-made tunnel. Constructed in the mid 1800s, Stumphouse Tunnel once employed an entire village, appropriately named "Tunnel Village," that was located on top of this cool attraction. The tunnel can be found at Stumphouse Tunnel Rd., Walhalla, SC 29691.
Oconee Station State Historic Site and Station Cove Falls
TripAdvisor/Annissa A
TripAdvisor/seahag1

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After a walk around Oconee Station, established in 1792, head to the falls trail. A short fall hike leads to the beautiful Station Cove Falls. No fall foliage trip would be complete without some photos of a great waterfall surrounded by the colors of autumn. Oconee Station and the trailhead to Station Cove Falls are both located at 500 Oconee Station Rd., Walhalla, SC 29691. Learn more by visiting the Oconee Station State Historic Site webpage.
Flickr/Anand Khatri
Mountain Rest Cafe
Google Maps [streetview]
Make a fuel stop at Mountain Rest Cafe just before you make the turn onto SC-107, a.k.a Falling Waters Scenic Byway. We suggest you try the fried chicken, but you really can't go wrong with anything on the menu at this favorite upstate eatery. Mountain Rest Cafe is located at 7057 Highlands Hwy., Mountain Rest, SC 29664. Make sure to check out the Mountain Rest Cafe website ahead of time to be sure they are open.
Falling Waters Scenic Byway
SCDOT
This scenic route spans 13 amazing miles through the mountains toward the North Carolina state line. Enjoy the sights and the smells of autumn as you make your way to the next stop.
Moody Spring
Google Maps [streetview]
waymarking.com
Not much history is known of this roadside attraction. But it does have cold spring water you can enjoy to cool off, or even drink - if you dare. The Google Map will lead you here if you're using your GPS. Otherwise, this attraction is located on the right side of the road right after you round a turn. Just look for the big, paved pull-off area.
Oscar Wigington Overlook
Google Maps [streetview]
SCDOT
Turn right onto the other leg of Falling Waters Scenic Byway (the turn is shown above) to get to the Oscar Wigington Overlook where you'll have awe-inspiring views of Lake Jocassee from an elevation of 2,000 feet. Perhaps one of the best overlooks in the state, this is one you must see!

For many, the start of fall marks a new beginning. New school years begin, our focus turns from summer vacations and visiting relatives to a little further down the road and the upcoming holidays. Before things get too crazy, make time for this dreamy road trip to see and smell the fantastic autumn season in South Carolina. The peak leaf-peeping times are in October and early November.

If you prefer your fall season to be the time of spooks and thrills for Halloween, check out this Creepy South Carolina Road Trip that might just be right up your alley.

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More to Explore

Fall Foliage Road Trip In South Carolina

Leah | September 11, 2020

What is the weather like in fall in South Carolina?

Along with the fall foliage in South Carolina, the beautiful weather is another reason to visit the Palmetto State during this colorful season. In October, the hot and humid summer is over or at least winding down, bringing lovely temperatures that range from highs in the 60s to 70s and lows in the 40s to 50s. On average, you can expect daytime temps to be a very comfortable 75 F, give or take a few degrees. It's perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities, including leaf-peeping.

When can I see peak fall foliage in South Carolina?

Now that you know where to see fall colors in South Carolina, you'll want to make sure they'll actually be there when you arrive. Plan your leaf-peeping trip accordingly by timing it right with the peak fall foliage time. South Carolina's best fall foliage viewing usually comes about at the end of October and into the first couple of weeks of November. The leaves begin to change by mid-October and usually reach their peak right around Halloween. As soon as the state is nearing mid-to-late-November, the leaves are falling and the peak is over.

What are the best fall festivals in South Carolina?

There are many things to do in fall in South Carolina beyond enjoying the colorful scenery. Fall for Greenville is an annual festival in the city of Greenville that celebrates their lively food and drink scene as well as music. You can learn more about it here. The charming town of Walhalla hosts an annual Oktoberfest. Celebrate all things German through food, dance, activities, and more. They also have Halloween-centric activities and rides that the whole family can enjoy. Visit the Walhalla Oktoberfest Facebook page to keep up to date with the event.

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Featured Addresses
1099 S Cove Rd, Seneca, SC 29672, USA
Stumphouse Tunnel Rd, Walhalla, SC 29691, USA
500 Oconee Station Rd, Walhalla, SC 29691, USA
7057 Highlands Hwy, Mountain Rest, SC 29664, USA
Moody Spring, South Carolina 29664, USA
35.001153, -83.043737