The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Oconee County

The Foothills Trail section from Bad Creek to Lower Whitewater and Hilliard Falls is a demanding yet incredibly scenic journey through diverse forests and rugged terrain, highlighted by a series of magnificent waterfalls. You'll traverse varied landscapes, from old roads to singletrack, crossing rivers on sturdy bridges, all while soaking in views of the Whitewater River and Lake Jocassee. This difficult 13.1-mile (21.1 km) hike, with its 2508 feet (764 metres) of elevation gain, promises a rewarding experience for those up for the challenge, typically taking about 7 hours and 34 minutes.

Planning your visit starts at the Bad Creek hydroelectric station, which offers convenient parking and facilities. Be prepared for steep ascents and descents, especially around the impressive Upper and Lower Whitewater Falls, and note that the trail can be slick when wet. While challenging, the route is best enjoyed during cooler months, with winter offering exceptional, unobstructed views of Lake Jocassee through the leafless trees.

This segment of the Foothills Trail is renowned for its abundance of dramatic waterfalls, including the towering Upper Whitewater Falls, one of the highest east of the Rocky Mountains, and the picturesque Hilliard Falls. The area is rich in biodiversity, with rhododendrons and various wildflowers adding vibrant color depending on the season, making it a true natural gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Whitewater Falls via Foothills Trail offers a fantastic opportunity to witness one of the East Coast's most magnificent waterfalls without an overly demanding trek. You'll navigate varied terrain, including singletrack paths and sections with exposed roots, leading to the impressive Whitewater Falls Viewing Platform. The moist environment around the falls is particularly vibrant in spring, showcasing a diverse array of wildflowers and ferns, making it a visually rich experience.

This easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) hike involves 683 feet (208 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 22 minutes to complete. While the route itself is straightforward, it's always a good idea to check for specific entry times to the Whitewater Falls area before your visit. Parking is available at the trailhead, but arriving early is recommended, especially on busy days, to ensure you find a spot.

Whitewater Falls holds the distinction of being one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, making this section of the Foothills Trail a significant natural landmark. Beyond the falls, you can enjoy glimpses of the Whitewater River gorge and, in winter, distant views of Lake Jocassee. The rich biodiversity, especially the abundance of wildflowers in early to mid-April, adds another layer of appeal to this popular trail.

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 Lower Whitewater Falls Trail offers a captivating journey through a lush, dense forest, often described as a "natural tunnel of trees." You'll follow the path alongside the gently flowing Whitewater River, crossing bridges and navigating varied terrain that includes well-maintained sections and rugged stretches with roots and boulders. The highlight is the dramatic 200-foot tiered Lower Whitewater Falls, a powerful cascade that provides a stunning visual reward from the designated observation platform.

Planning your visit to the Lower Whitewater Falls Trail is straightforward, with parking available at the trailhead, often equipped with amenities like portable toilets. While Komoot rates this as an easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hike, be prepared for a steady descent to the falls and a significant uphill climb on the return, gaining 367 feet (112 metres) over approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes. The trail's difficulty can feel more moderate due to the steep sections, so wear appropriate footwear and consider the best time of year to hike for comfortable conditions.

This trail is notable for leading to one of the highest waterfalls in eastern North America, making it a must-see natural wonder. Beyond the falls, the immersive experience of hiking through the "dancing woods" with towering trees adds to its appeal. During winter months, with less foliage, you might even catch a glimpse of the remains of a small plane that crashed in 1972, adding a unique historical layer to your adventure.