Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls in South Carolina is a peaceful, picture-perfect cascade known for its wide sheet of water flowing over a rocky ledge. Nestled in a wooded setting, the falls offer a tranquil spot for photos, short nature breaks, and quiet reflection along the river. The site’s approachable setting makes it a popular stop for day hikers and visitors seeking a scenic short outing. Note that "Cedar Falls" is a name shared by multiple places (see Wikipedia disambiguation), so be sure you’re headed to the South Carolina location. The most commonly used access route here leads to a short, well-maintained path that brings you right to the base of the falls, where the rocky ledge and pool create a classic waterfall scene.
The Setting
Cedar Falls sits at 374 feet along the Hanging Rock Creek, in the coastal lowlands of South Carolina.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail length: 2.4 miles round-trip (out-and-back); elevation gain: 350 feet; difficulty: moderate. The route follows a well-maintained footpath through wooded terrain and leads directly to the falls, offering intermittent views of the river along the way. Expect a moderate climb on the return as you gain roughly 350 feet overall; the trail is suitable for hikers comfortable with moderate grades and a few uneven sections.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cedar Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cedar Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit Cedar Falls, as the weather is mild and the surrounding foliage enhances the scenery.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions and avoid visiting during heavy rain, as the river may swell.
Current Water Conditions
-0.13 ft
Water depth at gauge
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge HANGING ROCK CREEK NR KERSHAW, SC (10 km away).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to early April, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Heath Springs hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The bare-earth surface loses about 35 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 373 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 34 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 30 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 373 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 35 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cedar Falls is located in Cedar Falls Park, near Fountain Inn, South Carolina. The park is accessible by car, and visitors can follow signs to the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area at Cedar Falls Park, which is free of charge.
Elevation
374 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.540428° N, -80.685352° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery, and wear comfortable walking shoes for the short trail.
Where to Stay
Executive Inn Kershaw
Quality Inn Lancaster
Super 8 by Wyndham Lancaster
Landsford Inn
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the city of Fountain Inn and other parks along the Reedy River.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife in the area.
Cities near Cedar Falls
Other waterfalls named Cedar Falls
8 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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