The best walks and hikes in Jackson County

Embark on the Waterrock Knob Trail, a moderate hike that leads you through a unique blend of deciduous trees and spruce-fir forests. As you ascend, you'll gain 335 feet (102 metres) over a distance of 1.4 miles (2.2 km), typically taking about 57 minutes to reach the summit. The path offers a rewarding experience, culminating in expansive views that stretch across the surrounding mountain ranges.

To begin your adventure, head to the large parking area located at the Waterrock Knob Visitor Center. This convenient starting point is easily accessible and provides its own impressive vistas even before you step onto the trail. Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon to catch the best light for photography, or even after dark for stargazing opportunities.

Waterrock Knob is renowned for its spectacular long-range views from the summit, where on a clear day you can see up to 50 miles. This includes major mountain chains like the Great Smokies and the Blue Ridge Mountains. The high elevation makes it a prime location for observing sunrises and sunsets, offering a memorable natural spectacle.

Embark on the Panthertown Backcountry Loop, a moderate hiking route spanning 9.6 miles (15.4 km) with an elevation gain of 904 feet (276 metres), typically completed in 4 hours and 20 minutes. As you hike, you will traverse deep gorges and broad valleys, encountering impressive granite rock domes and tranquil creeks. Keep an eye out for numerous waterfalls, including the beautiful Schoolhouse Falls, and enjoy panoramic vistas from spots like Salt Rock Overlook.

This is a remote wilderness experience, so careful planning is essential before you set out. There are no amenities such as restrooms or potable water available along the way, so you must carry everything you need. The area is known for many unofficial paths, making it easy to get disoriented, so bringing a detailed map and compass is highly recommended. If you plan to camp, bear canisters are strongly advised due to the presence of bears.

Often referred to as the 'Yosemite of the East,' the Panthertown Backcountry Loop offers a true backcountry adventure. The diverse landscape not only provides stunning scenery but also protects unique habitats and wildlife. This trail stands out in the Nantahala National Forest for its rugged beauty and the sense of wild exploration it provides.

Embark on the Deep Gap and Wilderness Falls Loop, an easy hike that takes you through the scenic Panthertown Valley. This route covers 3.0 miles (4.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 353 feet (108 metres), making it a perfect choice for a shorter outing. You can expect to complete this loop in about 1 hours and 21 minutes, enjoying varied terrain from old road beds to sections with roots and steps, all while surrounded by lush vegetation.

When planning your visit, be aware that the area retains a wilderness feel, and cell service can be limited. It is always a good idea to carry a map, compass, or GPS device, as some parts of the trail may not be extensively marked. While recent efforts have improved trail signage, being prepared will help you navigate confidently and fully enjoy your adventure in this beautiful valley.

The Deep Gap and Wilderness Falls Loop is notable for its abundance of water features, including the impressive Wilderness Falls and the secluded Frolictown Falls. You will also find Granny Burrell Falls nearby, adding to the trail's charm. Don't miss the chance to take in the sweeping panoramic views of Panthertown Valley from the Salt Rock Overlook, a highlight of this rewarding hike.

The Foothills Trail: Upper Whitewater Falls to Burrell's Ford Road offers a challenging 12.0-mile (19.3 km) point-to-point hike through the rugged Blue Ridge escarpment. You'll navigate diverse forests, encounter impressive suspension bridges, and follow the scenic Chattooga River, a designated Wild and Scenic River. Expect a demanding route with 1524 feet (465 metres) of elevation gain, particularly the strenuous climb out of Upper Whitewater Falls, making it a difficult trail that takes around 5 hours and 35 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that this is a remote section of the Foothills Trail, so come prepared. Parking Foothills Trail Burrell's Ford Road access is available, but confirm directions and conditions beforehand. The best season to hike Foothills Trail Burrell's Ford Road section for expansive views is often winter, when the bare trees open up vistas of Lake Jocassee and the mountains.

This section is particularly notable for featuring the majestic Upper Whitewater Falls, one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains. The route's journey alongside the protected Chattooga River adds to its unique character, offering a true wilderness experience for those seeking advanced hiking routes near Whitewater Falls. It's a top rated point-to-point hike in the North Carolina/South Carolina border region for its natural beauty and demanding terrain.

Embark on the Panthertown Valley and Mac's Gap Trail Loop, a moderate hike that takes you through a diverse landscape often called the "Yosemite of the East." This route covers 8.5 miles (13.7 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 1077 feet (328 metres). You will experience a mix of lush hardwood forests and impressive granite formations, with highlights like the panoramic views from Salt Rock Overlook and the refreshing cascades of Schoolhouse Falls. Expect a satisfying workout that typically takes around 3 hours and 56 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that navigation can be challenging in certain areas, especially across open rock faces. Look for faint white arrows or green markers on trees to help guide your way. Cell service is often unreliable within the valley, so downloading offline maps before you go is highly recommended for a smooth journey. Primitive camping is permitted in designated areas if you wish to extend your adventure overnight.

Panthertown Valley, located within North Carolina's Nantahala National Forest, is renowned for its unique geological features, including numerous granite domes and a remarkable concentration of waterfalls. This trail offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the valley's exceptional natural beauty, providing a memorable outdoor experience. The area's distinct ecosystem and varied terrain make it a standout destination for hikers seeking both scenic beauty and a good physical challenge.

Embark on a moderate hike along a 2.8-mile (4.6 km) section of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, where you will gain 991 feet (302 metres) in elevation. This route takes about 1 hour and 51 minutes to complete, leading you through dense forests and showcasing the rugged beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The highlight of your journey is reaching Waterrock Knob Summit, which offers expansive vistas of the surrounding peaks.

Accessing this part of the trail is straightforward, with parking available near the Fork Ridge Overlook. Before you head out, always check local conditions, especially during winter months, as mountain roads and trails can be affected by weather. This section is popular, so consider planning your visit for off-peak times to avoid crowds.

This particular segment of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail provides a classic mountain scenery experience in the western part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the natural environment and enjoy the distinct landscape of this renowned long-distance route.

Embark on a demanding journey along the Foothills Trail from Whitewater Falls to Oconee State Park, a difficult 27.7-mile (44.6 km) hike that packs in 3233 feet (985 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 12 hours and 46 minutes. This section plunges you into a rugged wilderness, featuring dramatic waterfalls like the multi-tiered Whitewater Falls and the serene flow of the Chattooga River, all while traversing dense, varied forests. Expect a workout, especially on the steep ascents from river valleys, but the natural beauty makes every step worthwhile.

Planning for this point-to-point adventure requires arranging transportation between the Whitewater Falls trailhead and Oconee State Park. Due to its length and challenging terrain, many hikers choose to tackle this segment as a multi-day backpacking trip. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is cooler and the forest colors are at their peak, providing a more comfortable experience than the humid summer months.

This segment of the Foothills Trail is particularly notable for its inclusion of Whitewater Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the Eastern United States, making it a highlight of the entire trail system. It offers a genuine wilderness experience through protected areas like the Sumter National Forest, showcasing diverse ecosystems and a rich history tied to its construction in the late 1960s.

The Grassy Knob Loop offers a dynamic hiking experience through the Nantahala National Forest, where lush woodlands give way to stunning vistas. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from sturdy stairs to paths that can be slick with wet leaves, all while enjoying the sound of rushing waterfalls. The trail's highlight is the Grassy Knob summit, providing sweeping panoramic views that can include Lake Jocassee on a clear day.

This moderate 5.9-mile (9.5 km) hike involves 1120 feet (341 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 2 hours and 54 minutes. It's accessible year-round, with each season transforming the scenery. Be prepared for some steep sections and varying underfoot conditions; sturdy hiking boots are recommended.

Beyond the summit views, the trail connects to the Foothills Trail and Round Mountain Gap Trail, offering options for longer adventures. A spur trail also leads down to the Whitewater River, revealing dramatic sheer rock walls. This route is a fantastic option for those seeking a rewarding challenge with diverse natural beauty.

The Fork Mountain Trail offers a deep dive into the wild heart of the South Carolina mountains, guiding you through dense tunnels of mountain laurel and rhododendron. This moderate 7.1-mile (11.5 km) hike, with its 1414 feet (431 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 27 minutes to complete. You'll experience a true sense of remoteness as you traverse dirt paths and rocky sections, with highlights like the historic Ellicott's Rock and the serene Slatten Branch Falls.

Accessing the trail requires careful planning due to its remote location and sometimes sparse trail markers; a good map or GPS is essential. Parking is typically at designated trailheads, but be prepared for limited facilities and no cell service. Given its lighter use, you might encounter natural obstacles like fallen trees, so allow extra time and carry plenty of water, especially during warmer seasons.

This trail is notable for being one of the least used in South Carolina, providing an unparalleled sense of solitude and a chance to connect with untouched nature. It forms part of a larger network, connecting to the Bad Creek Trail and eventually the Chattooga Trail, offering options for extended backpacking. Primitive camping is permitted in certain areas outside the Ellicott Rock Wilderness, making it ideal for those seeking an overnight adventure.