South Carolina’s Oconee County boasts more than 150 waterfalls, some so magnificent they’ll leave you in awe. Over near Tamassee, there’s a waterfall that is covered in lush, green moss and ferns. After a short hike, you’ll marvel at the emerald waterfall in South Carolina that’s been hiding here in the forest all this time.

Lee Falls is worthy of an adventure, and that's just what you'll find on this 2.9-mile hike.
Sean Hogan/Google
It's a bit of a trek and sometimes the terrain gets a little dicey.
alltrails
You'll scramble over more than one water crossing and, at the end, things get rocky as you climb down into the base of the waterfall. Expect rough ground, possibly a downed tree to climb over (or go around) and if it's rained recently, some mud.
Following the alltrails.com insight, the trail begins at a small parking area.
Bobby B/alltrails
Even through this trail is only lightly traveled, you'll still want to arrive early to assure you get a parking spot. Don't forget to bring plenty of water and...

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Wear your hiking boots. At times, the initial field you cross is a bit overgrown.
David Spaulding/alltrails
Most people with kids over the age of six are comfortable with the trail's moderate difficulty. The elevation gain is only 317 feet on the 2.9-mile hike but at the end it does get much more difficult. We recommend you bring hiking sticks for the last half mile of the hike.
One you arrive at the base of Lee Falls, you'll see how it feels to be standing in a lush, green rainforest.
haley kendal/alltrails
Lee Falls drops over a moss and fern covered rock ledge and then cascades further down Tamassee Creek over moss-covered boulders that are strewn about like a giant simply tossed them into the air and let them fall.
The waterfall's hanging garden is a marvelous example of what happens when you put the gentle spray of the water together with some vegetation.
Sean Hogan/Google
The impressive rock wall of the waterfall is covered in vegetation — just like in a rain forest.
In spectacular fashion, EVEN IN COLD WEATHER, the moss on Lee Falls and the cascade remains lush and green long after the leaves are all gone from the trees.
Michael Laico/alltrails

When you’re ready to check this little slice of rain forest paradise out for yourself, set aside at least half a day for the excursion. The hike isn’t terribly long, but you’ll want to take your time (especially at the end) and enjoy this emerald waterfall in South Carolina! The best time to take this hike is in the spring and summer if you want to experience the rain forest. Dogs are allowed on the trail, as long as they are leashed. Find more information at this link on alltrails.com.

Parking area GPS Coordinates / Address: 34.89333, -83.08105

 

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