February 8, 2022
Hidden Falls Trail
near Mountain Rest, SC
We used an alternate trailhead along Tower Rd (FS 716), just off of SC Hwy 107, to avoid the unusually high $5/person fee when starting from Oconee State Park. This alternate route uses the Palmetto Trail to join the Hidden Falls Trail. The weather was great! The trail is in very good condition with few rocks and roots, making it easy on the feet. There were just a few fallen trees across the trail, none too difficult to navigate through. There were just a few brief views of the surrounding mountains from this trail. We did visit Disappearing Falls in addition to the main attraction, Hidden Falls. Neither falls had a spectacular amount of flow, but they were worth the stop. Disappearing Falls is curious since the flow does disappear into the ground below the falls with its reappearance not seen from the the falls. Hidden Falls is an impressive 50-footer, but does have a moderately steep section to climb on your return. Heather identified what she thinks may be a Indian Pointing Tree along the trail, something this group has seen on rare occasion when hiking. Heather will be covered these trees in her very informative weekly newsletter, Natural Wonders, which can be accessed at https://naturalwonders.substack.com/.
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The route
5.5 mi · 679 ft climbing · 3h 27m out, 2h 44m walking · 2.0 mph moving
Elevation
Hover over the profile to see the elevation and steepness. Your position will be shown on the map.
- Steepness
- Gentle under 5%
- Moderate 5–10%
- Steep 10–15%
- Very steep over 15%
Photos (16)
Hidden Falls Todays Hikers (L-R) Top: Heather, Renee, Gerald, Joe, Bob & Ken. Middle: Ray, Lynn, Angela, Dave, Mary Lu, Vic & Gary. Bottom: Tim, Jenny & Mike. Getting started on the Palmetto Trail leading to the Hidden Falls Trail. The only water crossing along the trail. Surprisingly there were a few minnows in this water. The Hidden Falls Trail is nicely marked. Disappearing Falls. Not much water today with its location at the upper end of its branch. Where did the water go? Thus, the name "Disappearing Falls." This is what happens when you let me hike at the end of the group. Just one of a few trail obstructions. I guess you can call this a view of the surrounding mountains? Lots of Mountain Laurel, however. Our approach to Hidden Falls. Break time at Hidden Falls. You, you there! Don't let me tell you again! What is she talking about? Looks like the jury is in session to decide this matter. Judge Tim Hale, presiding. Is this an "Indian Pointing Tree?" Seems to be pointing toward Hidden Falls. Courtesy of Heather Wall, "Natural Wonders" Newsletter.