Ultimate Guide to Hiking Trails in Greenville and Beyond

Ultimate Guide to Hiking Trails in Greenville and Beyond

If you’re looking for the best hiking trails near Greenville, SC, you’re in the right place! Whether you want an easy stroll around town or a challenging mountain trek, this guide has over 20+ trails with stunning views, historic landmarks, and breathtaking waterfalls. So lace up your boots and explore the best trails in and around the Greenville area!

Why Hike in Greenville, SC?

Greenville offers a diverse range of trails, from scenic lakeside loops to rugged mountain climbs. With easy access to state parks, nature reserves, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, there’s a hike for every skill level.

👉 Pro Tip: Before heading out, check park websites for updates on trail conditions, closures, and safety advisories.

Trail Difficulty Key:

🥾 = Easy | 🥾🥾 = Moderate | 🥾🥾🥾 = Hard

Best Hiking Trails in Greenville, SC

Paris Mountain State Park (2401 State Park Rd., Greenville, SC)

1. Lake Placid Loop

• Difficulty: 🥾

• Length: 0.75-mile loop

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? A short, scenic walk with lake views and wildlife sightings. Perfect for a relaxing stroll.

2. Sulphur Springs Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾🥾🥾

• Length: 3.8-mile loop

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? Steep hills, historic water tower, and stunning forest views make this a rewarding challenge.

3. Brissy Ridge Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾🥾

• Length: 2.9-mile loop

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? A great mix of elevation changes and wooded trails. Watch out for tree roots and mountain bikers!

Beyond Greenville: Must-Hike Trails in Upstate SC

Cedar Falls Park (201 Cedar Falls Rd., Fountain Inn, SC)

4. The Natural Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾

• Length: 1.5 miles

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? Family-friendly with Reedy River views and cascading shoals.

Table Rock State Park (158 Ellison Ln., Pickens, SC)

5. Lakeside Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾

• Length: 1.9-mile loop

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? A peaceful walk with historic elements and stunning Table Rock views.

6. Pinnacle Mountain Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾🥾🥾

• Length: 8.4 miles out-and-back

• Pet-friendly: Yes (but challenging for dogs)

• Why Hike Here? The tallest mountain in SC, offering rewarding views and challenging terrain.

7. Carrick Creek Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾🥾

• Length: 2-mile loop

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? Features beautiful waterfalls and observation decks along the trail.

Jones Gap State Park (303 Jones Gap Rd., Marietta, SC)

8. Rainbow Falls Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾🥾

• Length: 4.4 miles out-and-back

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? Gorgeous waterfalls and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

9. Hospital Rock Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾🥾🥾

• Length: 8.8 miles out-and-back

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? One of the most rugged trails in SC, offering serious adventure and historical intrigue.

Keowee-Toxaway State Park (108 Residence Dr., Sunset, SC)

10. Natural Bridge Nature Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾🥾

• Length: 1.3 miles

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? Features scenic lake views, mountain laurel, and blueberry bushes.

Oconee State Park (624 State Park Rd., Mountain Rest, SC)

11. Hidden Falls Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾🥾

• Length: 2.4 miles

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? Best visited after rain when the waterfalls are at their most spectacular.

12. Tamassee Knob Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾🥾🥾

• Length: 2 miles

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? Offers one of the best views of the Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains.

Exploring North Carolina’s Scenic Trails

Pisgah National Forest (1600 Pisgah Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC)

13. Max Patch Mountain Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾🥾

• Length: 1.5 miles

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? A panoramic bald summit with 360-degree mountain views.

14. Linville Falls Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾🥾

• Length: 2.2 miles

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? Features three waterfall overlooks with breathtaking gorge views.

15. Black Balsam Knob via Art Loeb Trail

• Difficulty: 🥾

• Length: 1.4 miles

• Pet-friendly: Yes

• Why Hike Here? A high-elevation trek with unique grassy balds and stunning scenery.

Gear Up for Your Hike

Before hitting the trails, make sure you have the right gear:

• Hiking Footwear: Columbia hiking boots on Amazon for rugged terrain.

• Apparel: Aesthetic Built oversized hoodies and moisture-wicking shirts.

• Backpack: Teton hiking backpack for all your essentials.

• Snacks: Stock up on energy bars from Sam’s Club.

• Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with a lightweight, reusable water bottle.

• Phone Charger: A portable charger ensures your phone stays powered for GPS and photos.

👉 Pro Tip: Always carry a trail map, first aid kit, and plenty of water!

Final Thoughts

Greenville and its surrounding areas offer some of the best hiking trails in the Southeast. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a leisurely walk or an experienced hiker seeking a tough challenge, these trails have something for everyone. Plan your next adventure and experience the natural beauty of the Carolinas today!