Discover Yellow Branch Falls

Tucked into the lush, mountainous heart of Oconee County lies Yellow Branch Falls, one of the most spectacular natural treasures here in Lake Hartwell Country. Between its cascading waterfall and serene forest trail, this destination offers a refreshing escape for hikers, nature lovers, and curious travelers alike. If you’re seeking an outdoor experience that combines peaceful seclusion with stunning natural beauty, Yellow Branch Falls should be at the top of your list.

While South Carolina is known for its sandy shores and flat lowlands, our home in Lake Hartwell Country stands apart with its dramatic elevation changes, rolling foothills, and the tail end of the Appalachian Mountains. Oconee County itself is part of the scenic Blue Ridge Escarpment: a divide where the mountains suddenly rise from the Piedmont, creating a dramatic shift in topography and climate. Our area is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the eastern United States, offering verdant forests, cool streams, and dozens of waterfalls nestled among the hardwoods. In the summer, its higher elevation and forest cover offer a cooler retreat from the sun-drenched beaches, perfect for hiking, waterfall-chasing, and unplugging from the everyday hustle. Yet at any time of year, the scenery around Yellow Branch Falls is a showstopper!

Hidden amidst the ancient forests of Lake Hartwell Country, you'll find Yellow Branch Falls.

Your journey to Yellow Branch Falls begins at the Yellow Branch Picnic Area, located off SC Highway 28 just north of Walhalla. The trailhead is easy to find and has a parking lot with picnic tables and restrooms, making it a convenient base for day-trippers. From the trailhead, hikers will follow the Yellow Branch Falls Trail, a moderately difficult 3-mile round-trip hike (1.5 miles each way) that winds through mature forest and skirts steep gorges. This trail is well-maintained, though it does include several creek crossings and tangles of roots that require careful footing, especially after rain. Be sure to wear sturdy, water-proof shoes that keep your feet dry – and firmly planted on the path.

Along the way, hikers are treated to a peaceful, shaded canopy, with the soothing sounds of birdsong and trickling streams setting the tone. Keep an eye out for native ferns, wildflowers, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife. In lush, damp areas near the creeks and waterfall, you may see toads, bullfrogs, turtles, or even salamanders!

After about an hour of hiking, the reward is breathtaking: Yellow Branch Falls tumbles in a dramatic, multi-tiered drop over a 50-foot rock face. Rather than a single plunge, the water fans out across the wide cliff in delicate streams, creating a veil-like cascade that’s mesmerizing to watch – not to mention it’s highly photogenic! We think it is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the state not only because of its size but because of its unique structure. The wide, stair-stepped rock formations let the water flow in ribbons, giving the falls an almost sculptural appearance. In drier times of year, the falls sometimes slow to a trickle, but it’s still worth visiting to see the eons-old Appalachian rock carved away by endless water and endless time. Once you’ve arrived, there’s plenty of space at the base to sit, snack, and soak in the view. On hot days, many visitors cool their feet in the shallow stream and rest up before the trek back to their cars. However, always take care around wet rocks, which can be slippery.

No matter which angle you look at it, Yellow Branch Falls is gorgeous.

While it’s a beautiful half-day hike, you can also turn an excursion to Yellow Branch Falls into a day- or weekend-long trip. The trailhead is close to several other notable attractions, including Issaqueena Falls, Stumphouse Tunnel, and Sumter National Forest. The town of Walhalla is worth exploring as well, with its quaint shops, local restaurants, and rich German heritage. If you’re planning a longer getaway, consider staking a claim alongside Lake Jocassee or Lake Keowee – both popular with boaters and paddlers. Whether you’re camping under the stars or staying in a cozy cabin, Lake Hartwell Country offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Just a short trip away from the Yellow Branch Falls trailhead lies Stumphouse Tunnel.

Yellow Branch Falls is more than a hike; it’s a journey into one of South Carolina’s most beautiful, peaceful, and primeval landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a weekend explorer, this Lake Hartwell Country treasure invites you to slow down and reconnect with the natural world. So pack your hiking shoes, grab your camera, and come discover why Yellow Branch Falls is one of South Carolina’s best-kept secrets!