A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Central, South Carolina

Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

Natural Bridge Trail

Hike Route

Natural Bridge Trail

Waterfall
easy
1.25 mi
+329 ft
Twin Falls

Hike Route

Twin Falls

Waterfall
easy
0.29 mi
+65 ft
Yellow Branch Falls

Hike Route

Yellow Branch Falls

Waterfall
easy
1.56 mi
+182 ft
Carrick Creek Trail

Hike Route

Carrick Creek Trail

Fall Colors
moderate
1.99 mi
+408 ft
Lower Whitewater Falls Hike

Hike Route

Lower Whitewater Falls Hike

Family Friendly
moderate
4.24 mi
+936 ft
Beech Bottom Falls

Hike Route

Beech Bottom Falls

Views
easy
1.63 mi
+461 ft
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Adventurous Routes

These routes go beyond 10 miles and are built for days when you want to cover more ground and push a little deeper. Expect longer distances, more effort, and bigger payoffs — whether that’s remote terrain, summit views, or a full-day challenge. Ideal for hikers looking to go farther and stay out longer.

Pinnacle Trail to Table Rock Loop

Hike Route

Pinnacle Trail to Table Rock Loop

Less Crowded
strenuous
10.87 mi
+3,595 ft
Fish Hatchery to Ellicott Rock Loop

Hike Route

Fish Hatchery to Ellicott Rock Loop

Birding
strenuous
15.87 mi
+2,225 ft
Jones Gap - Caesars Head Loop

Hike Route

Jones Gap - Caesars Head Loop

Birding
extreme
27.16 mi
+8,689 ft
Jones Gap Loop

Hike Route

Jones Gap Loop

Birding
strenuous
11.69 mi
+4,188 ft

Other Nearby Routes

Not finding what you're looking for? These additional nearby hikes offer more ways to get outside and explore the area. With a mix of lengths, difficulty levels, and terrain, you're likely to find something that fits your plans for the day. And remember, you can always use the onX Route Builder to create your own adventure from scratch.

Upper Whitewater Falls from Lower Trailhead

Hike Route

Upper Whitewater Falls from Lower Trailhead

Fall Colors
strenuous
5.75 mi
+1,130 ft
Raven Cliff Falls Loop

Hike Route

Raven Cliff Falls Loop

Birding
strenuous
7.63 mi
+2,806 ft