Discover the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area

Nestled in the state’s northwest corner, this 12,000-acre untamed landscape is home to cascading waterfalls, rugged trails and panoramic overlooks.

Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area hiking trail

Explore the Heart of South Carolina’s Mountain Wilderness

Linking Jones Gap and Caesars Head state parks, this vast wilderness showcases the Blue Ridge Mountains at their most breathtaking. Hike beneath soaring cliffs, follow the Middle Saluda River and experience the natural wonders that define South Carolina’s Upcountry.

The Scenic Middle Saluda River Is the Centerpiece of Jones Gap State Park

From peaceful riverside picnics to challenging hikes with breathtaking views, Jones Gap State Park offers a true mountain escape in the heart of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area.

Take a Fall Hike Through the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area

Experience the beauty of autumn in the Blue Ridge foothills with a day of hiking at Caesars Head or Jones Gap, where the trails are as vibrant and inviting as the fall foliage.

5 Places to Stay and Play in the Upstate

From cozy cabins to riverside RV sites, these accommodations offer comfortable stays near South Carolina’s scenic Upcountry state parks.

couple standing at Caesars Head overlook

Observe "Caesar's Head" at Caesars Head State Park

Experience the breathtaking views from Caesars Head State Park, then follow the hidden path behind the overlook to discover the rock that inspired the park’s name.

Explore Wildcat Branch Falls

Just off the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway, Wildcat Branch Falls offers an easy roadside adventure with cascading waterfalls, short trails and a touch of Upcountry history.

Discover Bald Rock

Nestled in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, Bald Rock Heritage Preserve features an easy forest walk and a stunning mountain vista that makes it well worth the stop.

Explore the Middle Saluda Passage

Hike beside South Carolina’s first scenic river on the Middle Saluda Passage, where cascading falls, rocky trails and stunning Blue Ridge overlooks make every mile unforgettable.

Wild Wonders: The Raptor Migration

Embark on a breathtaking journey through South Carolina’s mountainous Upstate to experience the awe-inspiring raptor migration at Caesars Head State Park.

view of the Blue Ridge Escarpment, mountains covered in trees

Take in Views of the Blue Ridge Escarpment

From its 3,200-foot overlook to its 60 miles of connected trails, Caesars Head State Park offers unbeatable views and a true taste of South Carolina’s mountain wilderness.

Pretty Place, clouds, woman sitting and looking out

Visit Symmes Chapel at Pretty Place

Perched high atop Standing Stone Mountain, Symmes Chapel—known as Pretty Place—offers an unforgettable, open-air view of the Carolina mountains and a peaceful place to reflect.

What You Need to Know to Experience the Raptor Migration

From September through November, the skies above Caesars Head come alive as thousands of hawks and other birds of prey soar along the Appalachian Flyway during their southern migration.

Hike to Rainbow Falls

The Rainbow Falls Trail in Jones Gap State Park rewards hikers with a breathtaking 100-foot waterfall after a challenging but beautiful climb.

Hike to the El Lieutenant Rock Dome

With steep climbs, forest switchbacks and chains to guide the way, the trek to El Lieutenant in Caesars Head State Park is an Upstate adventure that’s as thrilling as its views.

Go Park-Hopping in South Carolina’s Mountains

Discover the rugged beauty of the Blue Ridge escarpment on a park-hopping adventure through Jones Gap, Caesars Head, Table Rock and Devils Fork—each offering a different side of South Carolina’s mountains.

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