Gordons Mill Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
About Gordons Mill Falls
Gordons Mill Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into South Carolina woodlands near the site of an old mill. Framed by lush greenery, the falls offer a quiet, scenic spot that appeals to photographers and hikers looking for a peaceful nature escape. The falls are best reached by a moderately paced hike — the route is roughly a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain. The short but engaging trail rewards visitors with the tranquil waterfall at the end; bring sturdy footwear and expect some uneven footing on the approach.
The Setting
Gordons Mill Falls sits at 404 feet along the Fairforest Creek, in the coastal lowlands of South Carolina.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Approximately 2.4 miles out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. Specific U.S. Forest Service trail name/number and official surface/grade classifications are not well-documented for this route. Hikers should anticipate natural footpaths and uneven terrain—sturdy shoes and basic trail-navigation preparedness are recommended.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful, natural setting with a small waterfall surrounded by greenery. The area may have historical remnants of the old mill.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The area may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Gordons Mill Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Gordons Mill Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit due to pleasant weather and vibrant foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of uneven terrain, slippery rocks, and potential wildlife encounters. Always stay on marked paths if available.
Current Water Conditions
61 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 32 years of record
2.11 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
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 FAIRFOREST CREEK NEAR UNION, SC (18 km away).
Today
Moderate
61 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
66 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
69 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
79 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
85 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
75 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
72 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to mid 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 Cross Anchor 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 31 feet through Gordons Mill Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 404 feet.
The ground changes about 18 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 50 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 404 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 31 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location of Gordons Mill Falls is not widely documented, but it is believed to be accessible via local roads in South Carolina. Visitors should consult local maps or guides for precise directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at designated areas if available.
Hours
Elevation
404 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.593462° N, -81.854823° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check local resources or contact nearby visitor centers for updated information on access and conditions. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes.
Where to Stay
Comfort Suites Clinton near Presbyterian College
Hampton Inn & Suites Clinton
Home2 Suites By Hilton Newberry
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Newberry by IHG
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
POPLAR SPRINGS
14.2 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Poplar Springs Recreation Area is a 24 acre site with moderate slopes with relatively dense stands of pines and mixed hardwoods. The site presently offers day use and boat launching facilities, but is primarily used for boat launching and is one of the more popular launch sites in this area of Hartwell Lake. Facilities include 1 volunteer host campsite, 20 picnic sites, 1 standard picnic shelter with water and electric service, 1 two lane boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, a
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other natural sites or historical landmarks in South Carolina. Check local guides for more information.
Wildlife
The area may host typical South Carolina wildlife, such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and insects.
Cities near Gordons Mill Falls
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