If you find yourself wondering, “Are there any waterfalls nearby?” you’re likely to discover at least one, particularly in South Carolina. One of the most accessible is Wildcat Wayside Falls, which can be spotted right off the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway—no need to detour from the road. On warm days, it’s common to see numerous vehicles parked along the roadside as visitors flock to enjoy a refreshing dip in this easily reachable waterfall. However, many do not realize that the popular swimming area is just the beginning; a trail adjacent to the falls leads to two additional waterfalls nestled further up the hill, creating a scenic trio.
Taking the time to explore the one-mile loop of the Wildcat Wayside Nature Trail is highly rewarding.
Put on your hiking boots and get ready for an exciting journey brimming with cascading waterfalls, serene water crossings, and glimpses of local wildlife, all while being enveloped by the lush shelter of towering trees overhead.
As you reach the summit of the loop, you might feel a bit of fatigue, but the trek to the waterfall is precisely why this hike is considered one of the finest in South Carolina. For those with knee concerns, bringing along hiking poles could significantly enhance your experience on this trail.
Though there are plenty of steps, this is among the most picturesque hiking paths featuring waterfalls, making it a delightful adventure for the entire family.
In the summer months, the central falls offer a chance to immerse yourself in the cool, invigorating waters of Wildcat Branch Creek, which flows into the adjacent South Saluda River.
At the beginning of the loop, you’ll encounter the upper falls, the first in a trio of captivating cascades.
As the initial installment in the series, this waterfall cascades down a significantly steep cliff. Exercise extreme caution when approaching this waterfall, as you will encounter warning signs advising against venturing off the designated path to reach the top. It’s important to heed these warnings for your safety.
It’s no surprise that this hike to the waterfall ranks among the top in South Carolina!
As the trail winds its way upwards before looping back down, you’ll encounter several small streams along the way. Typically, you can navigate these crossings without getting your feet wet, unless there’s been heavy rain recently.
It’s advisable to bring along an extra pair of shoes for this journey.
If you encounter a crossing with an overwhelming amount of water rushing over even minor streams, it’s best not to cross unless you are completely confident in your balance. The rocks can be quite treacherous and slippery.
As mentioned in the Editor’s note at the start of this article, please refrain from deviating from the designated trail.
Caution signs are placed throughout the trail to serve as a subtle reminder of the dangers associated with straying from the designated path, as there have been incidents resulting in fatalities in the past.