Waterfall Hikes Near Columbia, SC
Columbia's stretch of the Midlands runs flat, so waterfall hiking here means driving north about an hour to where the Catawba drops through rock near the town of Great Falls. The trail at Great Falls of Catawba covers two miles. Cedar Falls is the gentler outing, half a mile out and back on an easy grade, and the dog can come. Two falls show on this page. Pick a cool morning and you can do both before dinner.
Map of Waterfalls Near Columbia
Pins are within 50 miles; hollow circles are day trips 50–100 miles out.
Today's Conditions
Live data from USGS gauges & National Weather Service
Best Day to Hike
Saturday
Mostly Sunny · 80°F
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🚗 Easy Waterfall Hikes Near Columbia (1 waterfall)
Easy access waterfalls are drive-up or short-walk friendly. Perfect for families, casual visitors, or anyone who loves waterfalls but is "so-so" about hiking.
All 2 Waterfalls Near Columbia
🧭 Day Trips From Columbia (8 waterfalls, 50–100 miles away)
Everything listed above is within 50 miles of Columbia. Make a day of it and 8 more are within 100 miles. The closest is Hendricks Falls, about 52 miles away. They're spread across South Carolina and North Carolina.
Distances are approximate, measured from the center of Columbia; the drive is usually longer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Near Columbia
Are there free waterfalls near Columbia?
There is 1 free waterfall near Columbia, including Cedar Falls.
Are there easy waterfall hikes near Columbia?
There is 1 easy waterfall hike near Columbia, including Cedar Falls.
Are there dog friendly waterfalls in Columbia?
There is 1 dog-friendly waterfall near Columbia, including Cedar Falls.
Are there kid-friendly waterfalls near Columbia?
There is 1 kid-friendly waterfall near Columbia, including Cedar Falls.
What is the shortest waterfall hike near Columbia?
The shortest waterfall hike near Columbia is Cedar Falls at 0.5 miles round trip.
What is the closest waterfall to Columbia?
The closest waterfall to Columbia is Great Falls of Catawba, approximately 27.5 miles away.
What waterfalls are within a day trip of Columbia?
Beyond the 2 waterfalls within 50 miles, 8 more are between 50 and 100 miles from Columbia. The closest of those is Hendricks Falls, approximately 52.4 miles away.
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