Slicking Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Slicking Falls
Slicking Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into the Poinsett Reservoir land unit in South Carolina. Situated on privately owned land (designation: CONE) and managed by a local NGO, the falls are framed by lush hardwoods and moss-covered rock, making them a favorite local spot for a peaceful nature stop and photography. The setting feels remote despite being accessible from nearby roads, offering a quiet place to enjoy the sound of falling water and shaded pools.
The Setting
Slicking Falls sits at 1,880 feet within Poinsett Reservoir, in the hills of South Carolina.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Raven Cliff Falls, the tallest waterfall in South Carolina at 420 feet, lies 3.2 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: Rainbow Falls (100 ft, 7.7 mi) and Reedy Cove Falls (75 ft, 7.8 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The hike to Slicking Falls is an out-and-back of about 2.4 miles round-trip with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The route follows a wooded footpath on mostly natural earthen tread; the grade is steady in places and the trail can be uneven or rocky, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Portions of the trail are informal but well-traveled—note that the falls and approach lie within privately owned Poinsett Reservoir land (designation: CONE) managed by an NGO, so visitors should observe any posted access guidelines.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. 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 Slicking Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Slicking Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger, and the surrounding greenery is vibrant.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Rocks near the waterfall can be slippery, so exercise caution. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or after storms, as water levels may rise unexpectedly.
Current Water Conditions
3 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 9 years of record
0.71 ft
Water depth at gauge
73°F
ComfortablePleasant for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. The water is a comfortable 73 degrees F, pleasant for swimming.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge TABLE ROCK RESERVOIR TAILRACE NR CLEVELAND, SC (3 km away).
Today
Strong
3 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
3 cfs
10/10Tue
Strong
3 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
4 cfs
10/10Thu
Roaring
4 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
5 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
5 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — strong flow, sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late January 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 235 feet of descent through Slicking Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,892 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 222 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 116 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,892 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 235 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Slicking Falls is located near Walhalla, South Carolina, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Access to the falls may require navigating local roads and potentially a short hike.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may be located along nearby roads or at a small designated area near the trailhead.
Elevation
1,880 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.075118° N, -82.704019° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during weekends. Bring sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls.
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
10.9 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 Stumphouse Tunnel Park and Issaqueena Falls, both of which are within a short drive.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and insects. Visitors may also encounter salamanders near the water.
Cities near Slicking Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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