Certain times of the year in South Carolina offer an ideal opportunity for hiking adventures! Dust off your hiking boots and prepare to explore a trail that leads to a hidden gem—a breathtaking double waterfall tucked away in the heart of the woods.
Among the most breathtaking natural wonders you’ll encounter is the enchanting Confusion Falls. This scenic waterfall is created when two gentle creeks flowing from the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area merge right at the spot where they cascade down, creating a single stream that flows onward. The sight of these converging waters is both captivating and serene, making it a must-visit location for nature enthusiasts.
There’s limited information regarding the origin of the falls’ name, but it might stem from the somewhat bewildering trails you’ll navigate through the forest to reach them.
Many hikers who have completed the journey strongly suggest downloading the map from AllTrails prior to hitting the trail. The area features numerous intersecting paths, so having a reliable map is essential for navigation, especially for this particular hike.
The entire trail spans approximately eight miles, though AllTrails indicates that it might be slightly shorter.
The hiking trail is situated on the premises of the Ashbury Camp Retreat in Cleveland. The camp’s gates are accessible Monday through Friday starting at 8 a.m. However, if you plan to hike this trail over the weekend, it’s advisable to call ahead during the week at (864) 836-3711 to obtain a code that will allow you to access the gate on Saturday or Sunday.
Confusion Falls cascades gracefully, dropping a remarkable 12 feet over two nearly identical tiers into a clear, shallow plunge pool beneath. The water glistens in the sunlight, creating a breathtaking scene.
The South Carolina wilderness offers some truly breathtaking views, with one of its highlights being Confusion Falls.
As you make your way along the trail leading to this stunning waterfall, you’ll also encounter another stunning feature: Moonshine Falls. This impressive cascade, rising 40 feet high, showcases the remnants of an old moonshine distillery beneath the expansive, cave-like overhang from which the water cascades. It’s a remarkable sight that adds to the natural beauty of the area.
Here’s a map indicating the location of Confusion Falls in relation to Moonshine Falls.
