Jones Gap State Park
303 Jones Gap Rd, Slater-Marietta, SC 29661
9 am - 9 pm (during daylight savings), 9 am - 6 pm (rest of the year)
$$
hikes, outdoor-adventures
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A great day trip for families with something appropriate for kids of all ages!
Just under an hour away from Asheville or only 45 mins away from Greenville, South Carolina, Jones Gap State Park is 13,000 acres of mountain woodlands. This area joins with Mountain Bridge Wilderness to allow hikers to traverse between the two parks. This area is known for some of the best trout fishing in South Carolina.
We hiked the Rainbow Falls trail and the Jones Gap Falls Trail, which are the two falls in the park. Rainbow Falls is a 4.5 mile strenuous (1200 ft elevation gain), out and back trail, whose main feature is the large waterfall. This trail is mainly uphill all the way to the falls but in the end, it will be worth all the amazing views. Bring snacks or lunch and take a long break at the top before heading back down. This trail would not be great for young hikers unless you have a carrier to help them.
Jones Gap Falls is a 3.5 mile moderate, out and back trail for a smaller 50ft waterfall. This trail is perfect for young hikers as there are fun rocks to cross over, bridges, and creeks. This makes for a unique trail that is fun for the kids. The falls have some space to allow you to soak your feet which is great for hot summer days.
They have a visitor center and shop as well as a pond to feed the fish. The rangers are very helpful and have maps to take along with you. There are also 18 primitive backcountry camping sites here as well. There are also several geocaching sights in the park to find as well.
There is limited parking so come early especially on the weekends. The rangers will make you wait to park if the lot is full.