Best 11 Adventurous Things to Do in South Carolina: Hiking, Rock Climbing, Zip Lining and Sky Diving
Are you looking for some exciting activities to do in South Carolina? South Carolina is the perfect destination for adventure seekers. From scenic hikes to thrilling water sports, there are plenty of things to do in South Carolina that will satisfy your need for adventure. In this article, we will explore the top adventurous things to do in South Carolina. From Hiking, Rock Climbing, Rafting, Ziplining, and Parasailing to Skydiving, we will look at all the Adventurous activities.
List of 11 Adventurous Things to Do in South Carolina
| Adventurous Activity | Reason to Do |
|---|---|
| Hiking in South Carolina | South Carolina is home to beautiful natural landscapes and trails that provide a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers of all levels. |
| Rock Climbing | Table Rock State Park offers a variety of rock climbing routes for both novice and experienced climbers, providing a unique adrenaline rush and stunning views. |
| Whitewater Rafting at Chattooga River | Chattooga River is a top destination for whitewater rafting enthusiasts due to its challenging rapids, beautiful scenery, and experienced guides. |
| Ziplining at Gorge Zipline | Ziplining through the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains is an exhilarating experience that provides breathtaking views and a unique perspective of South Carolina’s natural beauty. |
| Kayaking and Canoeing at Congaree River | South Carolina’s Congaree and Edisto Rivers offer a peaceful and scenic setting for kayaking and canoeing, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature and observe local wildlife. |
| Surfing at Folly Beach | Folly Beach’s waves attract surfers of all levels, making it a popular destination for those looking to catch a wave or take a lesson from local instructors. |
| Biking in Swamp Rabbit Trail | Swamp Rabbit Trail is a 22-mile trail that runs through the beautiful countryside of Greenville, providing a scenic and challenging ride for cyclists of all levels. |
| Skydiving at Skydive Carolina | Skydiving provides an unmatched adrenaline rush and an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to see South Carolina from a unique perspective. |
| Parasailing at Myrtle Beach | Parasailing is a thrilling and fun-filled activity that provides an aerial view of Myrtle Beach’s beautiful coastline and ocean life. |
| Fishing at Lake Jocassee | Lake Jocassee is a prime fishing spot that offers a variety of fish species, providing a relaxing and enjoyable experience for both novice and experienced anglers. |
| Scuba Diving at Charleston | Charleston’s coastline is home to a variety of marine life and shipwrecks, providing a unique and exciting scuba diving experience for certified divers. |
Consider reading: 15 Best Things to Do in Everglades National Park
Hiking in South Carolina
South Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. The Blue Ridge Mountains, located in the northwest part of the state, offer some of the best hiking trails in South Carolina. The Foothills Trail is a popular trail that spans over 77 miles and offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, mountains, and lakes.
Hiking at the Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains are a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. With miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult, there is a trail for everyone.
Trail Options at the Blue Ridge Mountains
Some of the popular trails at the Blue Ridge Mountains include:
| Trail Name | Length | Difficulty | Destination | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rainbow Falls Trail | 2.7 miles | Moderate | Rainbow Falls | A moderate hike that leads to the beautiful Rainbow Falls, which drops 150 feet over a cliff. |
| Table Rock Trail | 7.2 miles | Challenging | Table Rock Mountain | A challenging hike that leads to the summit of Table Rock Mountain, offering stunning views. |
| Raven Cliff Falls Trail | 4.9 miles | Moderate | Raven Cliff Falls | A moderate hike that leads to the impressive Raven Cliff Falls, which drops 400 feet. |
| Pinnacle Mountain Trail | 3.5 miles | Moderate | Pinnacle Mountain | A moderate hike that leads to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain, offering panoramic views. |
Hiking at the Blue Ridge Mountains is a must-do adventure activity in South Carolina. So, grab your hiking boots and hit the trails for an unforgettable experience.
Hiking at The Foothills Trail
The Foothills Trail is a 77-mile hiking trail that runs from Oconee State Park to Table Rock State Park and passes through the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is a challenging trail that offers hikers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and forests.
Trail Options at The Foothills Trail
The Foothills Trail is divided into several sections, and hikers can choose to hike the entire trail or just a section of it. Some of the popular sections of the trail include:
| Trail Name | Length | Destination | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chattooga River Trail | 15.7 miles | Chattooga River and surrounding mountains | A 15.7-mile section of the trail that follows the Chattooga River, offering stunning views. |
| Whitewater Falls Trail | 8.7 miles | Whitewater Falls, the highest east of the Rockies | An 8.7-mile section of the trail that leads hikers to the stunning Whitewater Falls. |
| Sassafras Mountain Trail | 3.5 miles | Sassafras Mountain, the highest point in SC | A 3.5-mile section of the trail that leads hikers to the summit of Sassafras Mountain. |
Hiking at The Foothills Trail is challenging but it is one of the best adventurous things to do in South Carolina. So, grab your hiking boots and hit the trail for an unforgettable experience.
Rock Climbing in South Carolina
If you’re looking for a thrilling activity, then rock climbing should be on your list. South Carolina has some excellent rock climbing destinations, including Table Rock State Park and Cedar Rock. Both of these locations offer challenging climbs for both beginners and advanced climbers.
Rock Climbing at Table Rock State Park
Table Rock State Park is a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts in South Carolina. The park offers several climbing areas that cater to climbers of all levels, from beginners to advanced.
Climbing Areas at Table Rock State Park
- The Pinnacle: This is the most popular climbing area in Table Rock State Park. It offers climbers a variety of routes, ranging from easy to difficult, and the climb to the top offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
- The Chimneys: This area offers climbers a challenging climb with difficult routes that require technical skills and experience. The climb to the top offers breathtaking views of the park.
- Table Rock: This is the largest and most challenging climbing area in the park. It offers climbers a variety of routes, including some of the most difficult in the state.
Rock climbing at Table Rock State Park is a challenging and exhilarating adventure activity in South Carolina. So, if you’re an experienced climber or looking to try something new, head to Table Rock State Park for an unforgettable climbing experience.
Rock Climbing at Cedar Rock
Cedar Rock is a popular climbing destination located in the DuPont State Recreational Forest in South Carolina. The area offers a variety of routes for climbers of all levels, making it a great spot for both beginners and experienced climbers.
Climbing Routes at Cedar Rock
- Cedar Rock Mountain: This is the main climbing area at Cedar Rock and offers a variety of routes ranging from easy to difficult. The climb to the top offers stunning views of the surrounding forest.
- Little Cedar Mountain: This area is located near Cedar Rock Mountain and offers climbers a variety of shorter routes that are perfect for beginners.
Rock climbing at Cedar Rock is one of the best adventurous things to do in South Carolina. So, if you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to explore the state’s natural beauty, head to Cedar Rock for a climbing adventure.
Whitewater Rafting at Chattooga River
The Chattooga River is a 57-mile-long river that runs through Georgia and South Carolina. It is known for its beautiful scenery and challenging rapids, making it a popular destination for whitewater rafting.
Rapids and Difficulty Levels at Chattooga River
- Section III: This section of the river is ideal for beginners and families, as it offers a mix of easy rapids and calm stretches. The rapids in this section are classified as Class I-III.
- Section IV: This section of the river is for experienced rafters only, as it features some of the most challenging rapids in the area. The rapids in this section are classified as Class IV-V, with names like “The Five Falls” and “Screaming Left Turn.”
Rafting Trips at Chattooga River
- Half-Day Trips: Half-day trips typically cover either Section III or Section IV of the river, depending on the level of difficulty the group is comfortable with. These trips last around 3-4 hours.
- Full-Day Trips: Full-day trips cover the entire Sections III and IV of the river, and typically include lunch on the riverbank. These trips last around 7-8 hours.
- Multi-Day Trips: For those looking for an even more immersive experience, multi-day trips are available. These trips typically include camping on the riverbank and cover multiple sections of the river.
Whitewater rafting at Chattooga River is a thrilling and unforgettable adventure activity in South Carolina. So, if you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to experience the state’s natural beauty, head to Chattooga River for a whitewater rafting adventure.
Ziplining at Gorge Zipline
Ziplining at Gorge Zipline is a must-try experience for thrill-seekers visiting South Carolina. This adrenaline-pumping activity allows you to soar above the stunning wilderness of the Blue Ridge Mountains, giving you a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the area.
Located in Saluda, Gorge Zipline offers a range of zipline tours, each with their own unique features and challenges. The canopy tour takes you through the treetops, providing an up-close look at the local flora and fauna.
The waterfall tour takes you above and beside several cascading waterfalls, providing a truly breathtaking view. For the ultimate adventure, the extreme tour includes multiple ziplines, rappelling, and a sky bridge.
All tours are led by experienced guides who prioritize safety above all else. Before embarking on your tour, you will receive a comprehensive safety briefing and be outfitted with all necessary gear, including helmets and harnesses.
The zipline courses vary in length and height, but most reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. The Gorge Zipline also offers the steepest and fastest zipline in the Southeast, with a 1,100-foot descent and speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. This thrilling ride is not for the faint of heart!
Ziplining at Gorge Zipline is one of the best adventurous things to do in South Carolina.
Kayaking and Canoeing at Congaree River
Kayaking and canoeing are popular water sports that allow you to explore the beauty of the rivers in South Carolina. Congaree River and the Edisto River are two popular spots for these activities.
Congaree River is located in central South Carolina and offers a peaceful and scenic route for kayaking and canoeing. It is the longest free-flowing blackwater river in North America, with slow-moving waters and lush vegetation.
You can take a leisurely paddle and enjoy the wildlife along the river banks, including deer, otters, and birds.
The Edisto River, on the other hand, is located in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and is known for its clear waters and sandy bottom.
The Edisto River is a perfect spot for both beginners and experienced paddlers, with several access points along the river for easy entry and exit. You can explore the river’s natural beauty, including cypress trees and Spanish moss, as you paddle down the peaceful waters.
Both the Congaree River and the Edisto River offer opportunities for camping and fishing, so you can make a full adventure out of your trip. Just be sure to bring proper safety gear, such as life jackets, and check the water conditions before you head out.
Kayaking and Canoeing at Congaree River is an unforgettable experience and one of the best adventurous things to do in South Carolina.
Surfing at Folly Beach
Folly Beach, located just 12 miles from downtown Charleston, is a popular spot for surfers and beachgoers alike. The beach features a variety of breaks that are suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers, with waves ranging from 2 to 5 feet on average.
One of the most popular spots for surfing at Folly Beach is the Washout, which is located at the east end of the beach. The Washout offers consistent waves and a variety of breaks, making it a great spot for surfers of all skill levels. Another popular spot for surfing is the pier, which offers long, slow-breaking waves that are perfect for longboarders.
In addition to surfing, Folly Beach also offers a variety of other water sports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating. The beach is home to several rental shops where visitors can rent equipment and take lessons.
Surfing is best during the fall and winter months when the waves are at their biggest and most consistent. However, even during the summer months, visitors can still catch some good waves early in the morning or later in the evening.
Consider reading: 7 Best Things to Do in Folly Beach
When planning a trip to Folly Beach for surfing, visitors should be aware of the local surfing etiquette and safety rules. This includes respecting other surfers and their waves, staying within designated surf zones, and wearing proper safety gear such as a leash and rash guard.
Biking in Swamp Rabbit Trail
Biking enthusiasts visiting South Carolina should not miss the Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 22-mile multi-use trail that runs from Greenville to Travelers Rest.
The Swamp Rabbit Trail passes through beautiful landscapes, including forests, waterfalls, and creeks. The trail is suitable for all ages and levels of biking experience.
One of the best things about biking the Swamp Rabbit Trail is that it is a mostly flat and paved trail, making it an easy ride for families or beginners. Along the trail, there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the scenery or take a break.
There are also several places to rent bikes, including electric bikes, for those who don’t have their own.
One popular route on the Swamp Rabbit Trail is the Greenville Health System Swamp Rabbit Trail from Greenville to Travelers Rest. This 13.5-mile section of the trail takes you through downtown Greenville, past Furman University, and into the charming town of Travelers Rest.
Along the way, there are many places to stop and enjoy the views, including the Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery, which serves up delicious food and drinks.
For more experienced bikers looking for a challenge, there are also several mountain biking trails in the area, including the nearby Paris Mountain State Park. This park has over 15 miles of challenging mountain biking trails that wind through dense forests and scenic vistas. The trails range from easy to difficult, so bikers of all levels can find a suitable challenge.
Skydiving at Skydive Carolina
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience, then skydiving should be on your list. Skydive Carolina, located in Chester, offers tandem skydiving for beginners as well as advanced skydiving courses for experienced jumpers.
Skydiving at Skydive Carolina is a thrilling experience for adrenaline junkies. The facility offers tandem skydives with certified instructors, which is perfect for first-time jumpers.
Skydivers get to experience the exhilarating freefall from 14,000 feet and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The facility also offers solo jumps for experienced skydivers, who can jump from up to 18,000 feet.
Skydive Carolina has state-of-the-art equipment and follows strict safety protocols to ensure a safe and unforgettable experience for all.
It’s important to note that skydiving is weather dependent, and the facility may have to reschedule or cancel jumps in case of unfavorable weather conditions.
Skydiving is one of the best adventurous things to do in South Carolina.
Parasailing at Myrtle Beach
Parasailing is a popular water sport in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina that offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure and a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful coastline. Parasailing involves being towed behind a boat while wearing a parachute-like canopy.
One of the top spots for parasailing in Myrtle Beach is the Ocean Boulevard area, where you can find several reputable companies offering parasailing services. The parasailing experience usually lasts around 10-15 minutes and can be done solo or in tandem.
During the parasailing adventure, you will soar to heights of up to 500 feet above the ocean, providing stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.
The water and wind conditions are usually calm, making it a relatively safe and easy adventure for people of all ages.
Before parasailing, you will receive a safety briefing and be provided with a life jacket and a harness. The boats used for parasailing are typically equipped with modern safety equipment, and the staff are well-trained in all aspects of the activity.
If you like Parasailing then don’t miss the chance to experience this in SC it is one of the best adventurous things to do in South Carolina.
Fishing at Lake Jocassee
Lake Jocassee, located in northwest South Carolina, is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. This man-made reservoir, surrounded by the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, is well-known for its clear waters and abundant fish species. Anglers can expect to catch bass, trout, crappie, and catfish.
To fish at Lake Jocassee, you must have a valid South Carolina fishing license, which can be easily obtained online or at local retailers. The lake is accessible by boat, and there are several boat ramps available for public use.
One of the most popular fishing spots at Lake Jocassee is the area near the Devils Fork State Park. The park has a public boat ramp, picnic areas, and restrooms. Anglers can also rent boats and kayaks from the park’s rental facility.
Another great fishing spot is the Jocassee Gorges Wilderness Area, which is located on the eastern side of the lake. This area is known for its secluded coves and is accessible by boat or by hiking in from the Foothills Trail.
Scuba Diving at Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina offers a unique opportunity for scuba diving enthusiasts to explore the underwater world. The area has a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish, lobsters, crabs, and other sea creatures.
One of the best places to go scuba diving in Charleston is the USS Indra, a retired Navy ship that was sunk to create an artificial reef. The ship now serves as a home to various marine animals and offers a fascinating experience to divers.
In addition to the USS Indra, there are other popular scuba diving sites in Charleston, such as the Captain Charlie’s Reef and the Edisto 40 Wrecks. These sites offer a chance to see different kinds of marine life and explore unique underwater topography.
Scuba diving in Charleston requires certification, and there are several dive shops in the area that offer training and equipment rentals. It is also important to follow safety guidelines and be aware of the tides and currents in the area.
With the right preparation and guidance, scuba diving in Charleston can be a memorable and exciting adventure for any diving enthusiast.
Final Thoughts on Adventurous Things to Do in South Carolina
In conclusion, South Carolina is a state that offers a plethora of adventurous activities to enjoy. From hiking and kayaking in the beautiful outdoors to exploring historical landmarks and indulging in delicious cuisine, South Carolina has something to offer everyone.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for an adrenaline rush or someone who wants to explore the natural beauty of the state, South Carolina won’t disappoint. So, pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and embark on an unforgettable journey to South Carolina.
We hope this guide has helped you discover some of the most exciting and adventurous things to do in South Carolina. From the stunning beaches to the charming small towns, South Carolina is a state that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Don’t wait any longer; plan your next adventure to South Carolina today and experience all the wonders this state has to offer.
FAQs on Adventurous Things to Do in South Carolina
What is the best time to visit South Carolina for adventure activities?
The best time to visit South Carolina for adventure activities is from April to October.
Do I need to have previous experience for rock climbing in South Carolina?
No, South Carolina has rock climbing spots for both beginners and experienced climbers.
Can I bring my own equipment for whitewater rafting in South Carolina?
It’s best to rent equipment from the tour operator to ensure it meets safety standards.
Are there age restrictions for adventure activities in South Carolina?
Yes, age restrictions vary depending on the activity and the tour operator. It’s best to check with them before booking.
