Description: Long Creek Falls serves as something of a landmark for the paddling community since it spills almost directly into the Chattooga River. The multi-tiered, 50-foot cascade and accompanying plunge pool offer a nice break from the Chattooga’s difficult Section IV, flowing briskly nearby. Fortunately, hikers can also enjoy the view after a moderate, hour-long hike. Be aware that this is not an official Forest Service trail, thus there are no permanent markings, so carefully follow the directions listed below.

Height: 50 feet

Length of hike: Approximately 1.6 miles

Time to hike: 1 hour from the grassy end of Turkey Ridge Road (FS 755)

Difficulty: Moderate

Creek or river: Long Creek

USGS Quadrangle: Rainey Mountain

Direct ions to the falls:

1. From Westminster drive west on US 76 for 13.3 miles and turn left (west) onto Damascus Church Road (Oconee County S-37-96). Long Creek Fire Station will be on your right after this turn.

2. Drive 0.8 mile and turn right (slightly northwest) onto Battle Creek Road (Oconee County S-37-102).

3. Drive 1.9 miles and turn right (northwest) onto Turkey Ridge Road (FS 755, which is gravel).

4. Drive approximately 3 miles and park in the grassy clearing near FS 755 I.

5. Hike along FS 755 I. At 0.1 mile be sure to keep right on FS 755 I, which ends in a small parking area.

6. From the parking area, follow the right-side path 0.5 mile to a fork.

7. Take the right fork and hike approximately 0.7 mile. Listen for the falls.

8. At this point you must descend from the main path to the base of the falls. This spot is several hundred yards past a large bend in the trail and at the end of a long, gradual decline. Take the side path on the left, going down to the river. Though steep, this side path is fairly easy to descend. Mountain laurel and other undergrowth offer handholds.

9. After approximately 125 yards, you will arrive at the river. You are now approximately 30 yards from the base of the falls.

Information: Sumter National Forest, Andrew Pickens Ranger District, 112 Andrew Pickens Circle, Mountain Rest, SC, 29664.  Telephone: 864-638-9568