Raven Cliff Falls
South Carolina • 420 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
400 ft
About Raven Cliff Falls
Raven Cliff Falls is a stunning 420-foot waterfall located in Caesars Head State Park, South Carolina. It is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the state, cascading down a dramatic rock face surrounded by lush forest.
The Setting
Raven Cliff Falls sits at 2,474 feet within Caesars Head State Park, fed by the South Saluda River, in the hills of South Carolina. At 420 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in South Carolina.
Height: 420 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Bridal Veil Falls (120 ft) lies 5.4 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: Rainbow Falls (100 ft, 4.6 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 400 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Raven Cliff Falls is a well-maintained path that winds through a dense forest of hardwoods and pines. The hike is moderately challenging, with some elevation gain, but it is suitable for most hikers with a basic level of fitness. The trail leads to an overlook that provides a distant but breathtaking view of the falls.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 420 feet. 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 Raven Cliff Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $3.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Raven Cliff Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as the weather is mild, and the surrounding foliage is particularly beautiful. Summer is also popular, but it can be hot and humid.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Stay on the designated trail and avoid venturing too close to the edge of the overlook. The terrain can be slippery, especially after rain. Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
5 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 20 years of record
1.86 ft
Water depth at gauge
68°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 68 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SOUTH SALUDA RIVER NEAR CLEVELAND, SC (5 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
3/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to mid March, peaking in February.
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 Caesars Head 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.
Along the line through the falls, the bare ground drops about 376 feet, most of it in one sheer step, the signature of a plunge waterfall. The listed height of 420 feet matches what the lidar sees. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,486 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 185 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 127 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, 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
- 2,486 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 376 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Raven Cliff Falls is located within Caesars Head State Park, which is part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area in northern South Carolina. The trailhead is accessible from U.S. Highway 276, and the park is well-marked with signs.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Caesars Head State Park Visitor Center. A small fee may be required for parking or park entry.
Elevation
2,474 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.105673° N, -82.660961° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water, as the trail can be uneven in places. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months.
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With 4.0 miles and 400 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn Brevard
Comfort Inn & Suites Brevard North
Holiday Inn Express - Brevard by IHG
Private Mtn Love Shack w/ fast wifi, BBQ & view
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
KUYKENDALL GROUP CAMP
10.3 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Large groups enjoy this cozy mountain campground in the Pisgah National Forest of western North Carolina. Ample opportunities for recreation exist in the area, including hiking, picnicking, scenic driving, swimming, fishing, mountain biking and more.Recreation This is a great place for campers to simply relax in the woods and listen to the sound of the creek. Visitors can also explore the area's numerous hiking trails, check out crystal clear waterfalls or fish for trout in the creek and
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Caesars Head Overlook, Table Rock State Park, and the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for unique bird species and other forest creatures.
Cities near Raven Cliff Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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