1. Summit Trail at Table Rock State Park
This trail climbs up to the summit of Table Rock Mountain, offering panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Escarpment. According to guides, the trail rises about 2,000 ft over roughly 3.5 miles to the summit overlook, making it a moderately strenuous but very rewarding route. (Discover South Carolina) It’s a standout for folks wanting the “mountain-hike” experience in South Carolina.
2. Pinnacle Trail (also at Table Rock)
Within the same park, the Spur to Pinnacle Mountain (the state’s tallest mountain contained entirely within South Carolina) leads to an elevated viewpoint. The effort is substantial, but the payoff—a high-elevation summit hike—is hard to beat. (Wikipedia) Ideal for hikers seeking a more intense adventure.
3. Jones Gap State Park — Rainbow Falls Trail
This trail winds through rugged terrain alongside the Middle Saluda River and culminates at the spectacular Rainbow Falls—a drop of roughly 100+ feet in a granite gorge. Expect a steep climb on the return, so plan accordingly. (SCTrails) It’s perfect for those wanting waterfall views and a moderate challenge.
4. Jones Gap State Park — Yellow Branch Falls Trail
A gentler but still very scenic forest trail, this moderate out-and-back route leads to a 50-foot multi-tiered waterfall. The forest surroundings and stream crossings add to the experience. (SCTrails) Great if you’re seeking something a bit easier than a summit climb.
5. Paris Mountain State Park — Lake Placid Trail & Mountain Lake Loop
Close to the city of Greenville, this park offers a nice mix of accessibility and nature. One recommended trail is the loop around Lake Placid, which is relatively short and offers peaceful water views and historic CCC era structures. (South Carolina Parks) Perfect for an afternoon outing or mixed-ability group.
6. Keowee‑Toxaway State Park — Raven Rock / Natural Bridge Trails
This lesser-known park features scenic trails along Lake Keowee and through wooded slopes. The Natural Bridge trail and the Raven Rock trail both offer quieter hiking away from the more crowded parks. (Wikipedia) A solid choice if you’re looking for a calmer trail atmosphere.
7. Sesquicentennial State Park — Sandhills & Jackson Creek Loop
Located closer to more populated areas, this park offers easy to moderate trails suitable for families or shorter outings. The Sandhills Hiking Trail (≈1.9 miles) and the Jackson Creek Nature Trail (≈0.5 miles) are described as easy loops with interesting boardwalks and lake views. (South Carolina Parks) A good option for beginner hikers or mixed-group outings.
8. Oconee State Park — Oconee Passage / Trails into the Foothills
This park lies in the Upstate and is a gateway to the longer-distance trails like the Foothills Trail. The trails here are nestled in the forested foothills and make for peaceful day hikes or staging grounds for longer adventures. (AllTrails.com) Best for those who want nature immersion without necessarily a summit.
9. Landsford Canal State Park — Scenic Canal Trail & Rocky Shoals
A bit different from the mountain hikes: this trail runs along historic canal ruins and through rock-shoal habitats. It’s less strenuous but still offers beautiful scenery and a nice change of pace. (AllTrails.com) Ideal for a relaxed nature hike with interesting geology and history.
10. Myrtle Beach State Park — Nature Trail & Boardwalks (Coastal Walk)
If you want to mix hiking with the beach, this park offers trails that wind through maritime forest and lead to dunes and ocean overlooks. The elevation change is minimal but the scenery shifts to coastal habitats. (AllTrails.com) A great choice when you’re after both a nature walk and a beach day.
🎒 Tips Before You Head Out
- Choose the trail difficulty that matches your fitness & experience—these vary from easy loops to challenging mountain climbs.
- For mountain/foothill hikes, bring good footwear, water and check for recent weather or trail conditions.
- Early starts help avoid crowds and afternoon heat (especially in summer).
- Leave no trace: stay on marked trails, pack out trash, respect wildlife.
- If you’re new to hiking, pick trails like Sesquicentennial or Landsford first, then work up to the steeper ones like Table Rock summit or Rainbow Falls.
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