Download your free guide or request a copy by mail below, and start planning your one-of-a-kind South Carolina adventure today. The Lower Falls (in South Carolina) is about half-mile down the Whitewater River from the Upper Falls (in North Carolina). The hike is … A moderate one-hour, two-mile hike along the Foothills Trail and a spur trail takes you to a spectacular overlook. This probably explained why we noticed a considerably quieter experience compared to its more famous counterpart in the Upper Whitewater Falls. Whitewater Falls is a stunningly beautiful, multi-drop cascading waterfall near Cashiers, NC and the South Carolina state line. Because of the difficult terrain surrounding Whitewater … From the Bad Creek Hydroelectric Plant parking area, take the Bad Creek Access trail (blue blazes), keeping left at the trail junction. Thank you! The staff is also very friendly and will offer great advice, if needed. Whitewater Falls. Whitewater Falls is a series of waterfalls and cascades on the Whitewater River in North Carolina and South Carolina. Whitewater Falls on the Whitewater River is the last river in the Jocassee Gorge area just before you reach South Carolina. This waterfall has a claim as the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies, which is apparently disputed. Read More, Oconee State Park offers the joys of a mountain retreat without the work. This beautiful 200ft waterfall is viewable from an overlook that is a moderate 4 mile round trip hike. Gather inspiration with trip ideas for planning your next South Carolina vacation. It once powered a mill and is now used occasionally by Class VI whitewater paddlers. The park has 26 campsites with water and electricity; four rental areas for... The Nantahala National Forest is the largest National Forest in the state of North Carolina spanning over 830 square miles; almost the entire Western tip of the state. Both Falls can be … While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. Lower Whitewater Falls. Lower Whitewater Falls: I'm starting big - really big. When it comes to height, Lower Whitewater Falls comes towards the top of the list, certainly in eastern USA. Look for signs directing you to Whitewater Falls. An easy hike on a well marked trail leads to a 14ft. A lower overlook is located at the bottom of 154 wooden steps. Legend has it that the Indian maiden, Issaqueena, rode to the nearby fort to warn of a pending Indian attack and then escaped pursuing... Most folks familiar with the Whitewater River only know about Upper & Lower Whitewater Falls. Starting at Whitewater Falls, you could hike to both via the Foothills Trail and spur trails, but that's not the easiest way to see Lower Whitewater Falls. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. From the hiking trails of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the beaches of the Grand Strand, see for yourself all of the adventure that South Carolina has to offer. Yet today we’d like to take you inland quite a bit, to a place where the foothills give way to flowing rivers and beautiful mountainscapes. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Watch for clusters... There is a pretty spacious parking lot with a $3 fee that you pay via envelope station. Read More, There are a few choices of sauces and many sides to choose from to go with your hickory smoked BAR-B-Q cooked daily. The trail to the overlook is a dangerous 1.7 mile trek. Along the way in the National Forest we found Whitewater Falls, said to be the highest falls east of the Mississippi. Whitewater Falls. Lower Whitewater Falls. Whitewater Falls, at 411 feet high, are one of the highest pure waterfalls in the South. Upper Whitewater Falls is on the NC side of the border and the Lower Whitewater Falls is on the SC side. To reach the upper falls first, turn left on Foothills. Whitewater Falls is one of the tallest chains of waterfalls in the eastern U.S. and the Lower Falls are not as frequently visited but just as impressive. It is administered by the USDA Forest Service. A hike a bit south of here leads to the lower falls. Have you visited Lower Whitewater Falls recently? It lies along NC Route just north Lower Whitewater Falls. Whitewater Falls is part of a series of six different falls on the Whitewater River along the North and South Carolina border that collectively fall over 800 feet. Lower Whitewater Falls is a 4.2 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Salem, South Carolina that features a lake and is rated as moderate. It is a mountainous region with numerous rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and popular … The Whitewater River is a freestone river that originates in North Carolina Transylvania County, (the Land of the Waterfalls) near Cashiers, then flows predominately South into South Carolina and empties into Lake Jocassee.This is one of the most remote areas of both NC and SC, and as such it has some awesome scenery including two dramatic waterfalls each more than 400 feet high. More Info × Lower Whitewater Falls. Source: MarksPhotoTravels / Flickr. SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. The two largest drops (Upper and … Waterfalls Here's a list of waterfalls in South Carolina's Upcountry, ranging in height from 40 to 700 feet. The Whitewater River features two large cascades as it flows from the mountains of North Carolina into Lake Jocassee. The entire Whitewater Falls chain - six different waterfalls along the North and South Carolina border - is the highest series of falls in eastern North America. The hike featured two spectacular waterfalls. Read More. Read More, Over three miles of hiking trails and a mile of the Chauga River runs through the park. The rugged terrain around these two waterfalls remains wild and undeveloped. You will receive your first email soon. Whitewater Falls Overlook Trail is a 0.6 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Sapphire, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. or uncover more great South Carolina trip ideas on: The entire Whitewater Falls chain - six different waterfalls along the North and South Carolina border - is the highest series of falls in eastern North America. Whether you’re looking for a bit of hiking, picnicking, or an excuse to enjoy the serenity of nature, you’ll be glad you visited this South Carolina landmark. It’s here, nestled near the border of North Carolina, that you’ll find one of the state’s most beautiful natural wonders: Lower Whitewater Falls. GPS Coordinates to parking area: N 34.81473 W 083.30512 The Upper Falls plummets 411 ft. and is 60 miles from downtown Asheville in the Nantahala National Forest.It's on the Whitewater River in the Jocassee Gorge area of North Carolina - in Jackson County.The 400-ft. Lower Falls can be accessed from a different location in South Carolina. The falls are part of chain of waterfalls along the North and South Carolina border that is the highest series of falls in Eastern North America. A moderate one-hour, two-mile hike along the Foothills Trail and a spur trail takes you to a spectacular overlook. All Rights Reserved. Lower Whitewater Falls, located just across the border in South Carolina, drops another 400 feet. A short easy walking trail leads from Stumphouse Mountain Park to Issaqueena Falls, a beautiful 200-ft. cascade. South Carolina is the perfect vacation destination for every family. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Plan your Palmetto State adventure today. The walkway begins at a parking lot and is accessible to wheelchairs. Family friendly, with restrooms and a beach area for swimming nearby. Mid … If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: Don't forget to bring your camera; you'll definitely want to capture the beauty of this South Carolina landmark! 11-26-17 Lower Whitewater Falls is about 2 miles down river from North Carolina's 411' Whitewater Falls. Fun for watching rafters and kayakers drop over a class IV falls. Lower Whitewater Falls Salem, SC Add ed to My Itinerary. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Upper Whitewater Falls is a waterfall in North Carolina on the Whitewater River. Whitewater Falls is the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, and it's shared between South Carolina and North Carolina. A slow drive along mountain roads with a little picnic makes for a fun afternoon. We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. Over 3.5 miles, the Whitewater River drops 1,500 feet. And though more travelers journey to Upper Whitewater Falls in North Carolina, the Lower Falls in Oconee County comprise a 200-foot drop as dramatic as any in this guide. The Lower Whitewater Falls comprises a dramatic 200-foot drop. Some sources say it's the highest falls east of the Mississippi River at 411', but I'm not so sure. Both the upper and lower falls feature scenic overlooks that can be accessed by car. South Carolina accommodations are famous for their beauty and Southern charm. Lower Whitewater Falls . Forest: Nantahala National Forest District: Highlands Ranger District Description: Whitewater Falls is accessed by way of a steep, 1.0 mile trail through a cove forest, beginning at the overlook for the falls, and descending to a bridge crossing the Whitewater River. Upper Whitewater Falls resides in the Nantahala National Forest near Brevard in Jackson County, North Carolina. Whitewater Falls is the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, falling 811 ft.! New benefit of membership: Free subscription to Backpacker magazine. Thank you! Length 4.2 miElevation gain 882 ftRoute type Out & back The hike trails a short, paved stretch of the Foothills Trail through a wildflower-filled forest, and catches some stunning views of Lake Jocassee nestled in the rolling surrounding mountains. The series falls is 800+ feet in total, but this hike only catches the upper 400 feet of the falls. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. Find must-see attractions and long-distance travel resources, including visa information, regional overviews and tour operator credentials. It’s no secret that the South Carolina Lowcountry is one of the crown jewels of our beautiful state. From the parking area, a moderate hike of 45 minutes to an hour will get … If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience there! If you don't have exact change, you could probably get away with not paying.The hike … More energetic hikers can continue down the half-mile spur trail that drops 600 feet in elevation to the Whitewater River and Foothills Trail. Located in Oconee County of South Carolina just south of the North Carolina border is the amazing and impressive Lower Whitewater Falls. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from April until October. Turn right, drive up to the gate and wait for it to open. Named for Sinica, an old town of the Cherokee nation, Seneca, like so many other towns in the upstate,... GPS for waterfall: 35.01641, -82.99368 Water source: Whitewater River Height: Approximately 200 feet The upper portion of the falls: Along the way to the base of Lower Whitewater Falls lies the remains of a small plane, which crashed in 1972, killing all four of its passengers. Love South Carolina? Over the 3.5 mi (5.6 km) course of the river between the two falls, the Whitewater River drops 1,500 ft (460 m), and crosses the state border. It’s a gorgeous waterfall, and well worth the half-mile (round trip) hike to view a 400+ foot cascade. A dramatic 200 ft. drop, these falls are the highest in eastern America. Charles Runge / AllTrails The waterfall is made up of six different sections, and the beautiful Lower Falls can be accessed via a 2-mile trail. If you’re looking for other unforgettable day trips to read in South Carolina, check out our previous article: These 15 Amazing Day Trips Will Have You Falling In Love With South Carolina All Over Again. Most people begin at the Bad Creek pumped storage facility in SC which makes the hike about 2 miles one way. This report focuses on the area immediately upstream, known as the Upper Whitewater River area, which is one of the most rugged, pristine, and gorgeous stretches of river that I've hiked. . A lower overlook is located at the bottom of 154 wooden steps. Lower Whitewater Falls, Oconee County. To experience these breathtaking falls up-close-and-personal, take the paved ¼ mile walkway to the upper overlook. As with most of North Carolina's waterfalls, it is in the mountainous area of the state. Further up the Whitewater River in North Carolina, there are impressive falls, but across the border in South Carolina, these falls make a great photograph. 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