LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Pelham Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Pelham Falls
Pelham Falls is a quietly scenic cascade on the Enoree River tucked inside Pelham Mill Park. The site pairs a pleasant riverside setting with the evocative ruins of a historic textile mill, making it a favorite stop for hikers and photographers who appreciate both natural beauty and local history. Though the falls are modest in height, the pool and rocky ledges create a peaceful spot to pause and enjoy the river. The park is served by a short trail system that provides easy access to a dedicated viewing area for the falls. The primary route is an out-and-back hike of 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is generally rated moderate — a great choice if you want a brief outing that still offers a little exercise and rewarding scenery.
The Setting
Pelham Falls sits at 719 feet along the Enoree River, in the foothills of South Carolina.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route that leads along the Enoree River to a viewing area at Pelham Falls. The trail climbs roughly 350 feet over the round trip and is rated moderate, so expect a few steeper sections amid mostly easy walking. The path is well-maintained and offers repeated river views as it approaches the mill ruins and the falls' viewing spot, making it suitable for hikers who want a short, scenic hike with a bit of elevation.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Pelham Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Pelham Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Pelham Falls can be visited year-round, but spring and fall are particularly pleasant due to mild weather and vibrant foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the riverbank as it can be slippery. Stay on marked trails to avoid hazards. Watch for uneven terrain.
Current Water Conditions
37 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 33 years of record
3.76 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge ENOREE RIVER AT PELHAM, SC (1 km away).
Today
Moderate
37 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
38 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
37 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
36 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
36 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
36 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
37 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
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 Five Forks 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 33 feet of drop through Pelham Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 724 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 15 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 54 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 724 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 33 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Pelham Falls is located in Pelham Mill Park, near Greer, South Carolina. The park is easily accessible by car, and the trailhead is located near the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking lot available at Pelham Mill Park. Parking is free, but spaces may be limited during busy times.
Hours
Elevation
719 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.853730° N, -82.220947° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring water, especially during warmer months. Be cautious near the riverbank as it may be slippery.
Where to Stay
Comfort Suites Greenville Airport
Wingate by Wyndham Greenville Airport
Comfort Inn & Suites Greer - Greenville
Courtyard Greenville-Spartanburg Airport
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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Nearby Campground
POPLAR SPRINGS
24.2 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 include the historic Pelham Mill ruins and other parks in the Greer area.
Wildlife
Visitors may see birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife along the trail.
Cities near Pelham Falls
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