Whitewater falls is the largest waterfall east of the Rockies, cascading down 411 feet! This impressive waterfall is located just across the South Carolina Border, in Jackson, North Carolina. You can take a day trip to see the waterfall or make a weekend getaway out of it and stay the night at a lovely resort in Seneca.
Whitewater Falls- The Trail
The trail to view the waterfall is a short one, only 0.6miles round trip. From the parking lot head to the left grassy area and follow the paved trail to the stairs. From here take a few flights down to the viewing platform and take in the impressive falls.
If you want to keep hiking you can continue down the stairs to connect to the foothills trail but there is signage saying there are no views of the waterfall from that point on.
If you’re just here to see the falls, take the stairs back up to return to your car.
Overlooks Near Whitewater Falls
There are two beautiful overlooks located near Whitewater Falls. The first overlook is just a short detour off the normal route, on Oscar Wigington Memorial Highway. The address is State Road S-47-413, Tamassee, SC. 29686.
The second overlook is called Bad Creek Overlook and Visitor’s Area and is located on the same road as the falls. After you visit Whitewater Falls, turn left out of the parking lot then follow signs for scenic overlooks. Following the signs, you’ll turn left again and follow that road for about 2 miles before reaching the overlook/visitors area located on the left. From here you’ll get gorgeous views of the mountains and lake below.
Where to Stay
Only 40 minutes away in Seneca, head to Lakeside Lodge Clemson to enjoy a relaxing weekend by the lake. Complete with a restaurant on premise, a hot tub, pool, firepit, and poolside bar, you’ll always find something to enjoy. They even have options of having a kitchen in the suite if you’re looking to cook your own meals while there.
Trails Nearby
If you’re staying a weekend at this resort be sure to check out some of these hikes nearby!
Big Rock Mountain Trail– This trail isn’t very well kept and can be a little confusing, but is still a beautiful hike. Expect a steep ascent starting pretty quickly, followed by climbing over a boulder. Right after that boulder head to the left and take in the gorgeous views on the boulder. You can continue the trail to make a loop but after this point there aren’t any more views like this one. I recommend just turning around here as it is easy to lose the trail after this point. Located 35 minutes from the hotel.
Yellow Branch Falls– I personally didn’t do this trail but its 3 mile round trip and is located 30 minutes from the hotel.
Riley Moore Falls- Located a little farther, a 50 minute drive from the hotel. This trail is 1.9miles round trip and a great waterfall to swim in.
Whitewater falls is about 2 hours and 45 minutes from Atlanta making it the perfect weekend trip! Head there early Saturday morning, then spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing in the hot tub & pool after adventuring.
