South Carolina’s landscape is so diverse that in a matter of just over three hours you can go from ocean views at sea level to heavenly views while towering over the mountainous terrain to the northwest. No matter where you’re from in the Palmetto State you’ve probably found yourself hearing the mountains calling your name from time to time. Here are 11 perfect places to answer that call the next time you feel beckoned by those beautiful South Carolina mountains.
1. Falling Waters Scenic Byway (SC 107)
Lake Jocassee Dam Road, Lake Jocassee Dam Rd, South Carolina, USA
Fist up on our list of destinations where you can admire the South Carolina mountains is the Falling Waters Scenic Byway. Ooh and aah your way across this 13 mile jaunt from just north of the Town of Walhalla to the North Carolina state line. From the Oscar Wigginton Overlook you'll have breathtaking views of Lake Jocassee. Learn more about taking this breathtaking scenic drive in South Carolina.
This through hike is definitely for the more experienced of hikers among us. It traverses approximately 70 miles of up and down terrain affording magnificent mountain top views as well as some serious stream crossings. In the end, it's one hike you'll never forget. Learn more about this gorgeous hike in South Carolina.
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3. The overlook at Caesar's Head State Park
Caesars Head State Park Visitor Center, 8155 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635, USA
A short trail leading from the parking lot at the visitors center at this state park leads to an overlook dishing up extraordinary views of the valley below and mountains near and afar. You'll agree that a trip to Caesar's Head State Park is the perfect South Carolina day trip destination.
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4. Hotel Domestique
Hotel Domestique, 10 Rd of Vines, Travelers Rest, SC 29690, USA
Spend the perfect weekend away in the mountains at this boutique European style hotel. Sip oodles of great wine from the veranda with amazing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or enjoy the same views from your room or from the restaurant at the hotel. Find out more about this excellent South Carolina weekend getaway.
5. Victoria Valley Vineyards
Victoria Valley Vineyards, 1360 S Saluda Rd, Cleveland, SC 29635, USA
Take a group tour of the winery, sit on the terrace and enjoy sweeping views of this 47 acre vineyard or have lunch in the cafe. Whatever you do, don't forget you've got nothing but time on your hands. Enjoy! Victoria Vineyards is open 5 days a week, Thursday through Monday. If you enjoy remote wineries in South Carolina, you'll be so glad you discovered this hidden gem.
Enjoy some down time and getting reacquainted with the beautiful mountains while atop Lake Jocassee. At Devils Fork State Park you can also opt to just sit along the shore and gawk all day long if you want. And, if you're in the mood for camping, you'll discover that Devil's Fork State Park has one of the most beautiful campgrounds in South Carolina.
7. The Red Horse Inn
The Red Horse Inn, 45 Winstons Chase Ct, Landrum, SC 29356, USA
The Red Horse Inn, located in Landrum, offers rooms in their main house or, you can stay in one of the charming six cottages on the property. All offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and hills. Have you ever been to the Red Horse Inn in South Carolina?
What better way is there to feel more connected to our beloved mountains than by climbing one? The trail to the top of South Carolina's Table Rock is 3.5 miles each way and totally worth every step. Just look at the view! There's a lot to love about this picture-perfect hiking trail in South Carolina.
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9. Pumpkintown Mountain Restaurant
Pumpkintown Mountain Opry, 3414 SC-11, Pickens, SC 29671, USA
This novel attraction is located on SC-11 in the middle of seemingly nowhere in the mountains of South Carolina. The cute little restaurant dishes up some signature sandwiches and the ice cream shop scoops up plenty of friendly smiles to go with your dessert. This secluded restaurant in the South Carolina mountains will make you feel right at home.
Although not on the top of a mountain, the rolling hills of this small city in South Carolina make it easy to view the surrounding mountains. Without a doubt, Travelers Rest is one of the coolest small towns in America.
11. Jones Gap State Park
Jones Gap State Park, 303 Jones Gap Rd, Marietta, SC 29661, USA
Last but certainly not least on our list of beautiful destinations in the South Carolina mountains, Jones Gap State Park is a vision to behold. Located in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, this state park has more than 30 miles of hiking trails and waterfalls galore! Check it out, but plan to arrive early; when the parking lot gets full then you're out of luck.
Yearning to head to the mountains? Homesick? Here’s another perfect spot to get away in the mountains of South Carolina. What are some of your favorite destinations in the South Carolina mountains? Did any of them miss this list? If so, feel free to share your recommendations with us in the comments below. As always, we would love to hear from you!
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south carolina mountains
Beth C. |October 02, 2022
What is the tallest mountain in South Carolina?
What do you usually think of when you envision South Carolina? Is it the coast? While the Palmetto State boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, it's also true that there are plenty of mountains to explore. As you learned in the article above, there's just no shortage of unique destinations within the South Carolina mountains. And some of those peaks are pretty tall, too! In fact, the tallest mountain in South Carolina is Sassafras Mountain, residing approximately 3,500 feet above sea level. Moreover, there's an amazing observation tower at Sassafras Mountain that will make you feel like you're standing on top of the world!
