Best leaf peeping spots around the Upstate, SC

Best Leaf-Peeping Spots Around Upstate, SC

As the temperatures start to dip, it's that magical time of year when the lush green landscape of Upstate, South Carolina transforms into a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a scene straight out of a painting. It's a showstopper of a season and a sight to behold!

If you are a nature enthusiast and you look forward to the fall foliage season, we've got you a list on the best spots near Greenville and Pickens to witness this stunning fall foliage. So grab your camera, put on your hiking boots, and dive into the fantastic world of autumn colors.

Witness Nature's Splendor at Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower

Location: Pickens County, SC

Photo courtesy of South Carolina Department of Natural Resources

Just an hour's drive northwest of Greenville, you'll find Sassafras Mountain, the highest point in South Carolina at 3,554 feet. At the Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower, you're in for a treat with a 360-degree view of the mountains. Even better, there's no entrance fee! It's a leaf-peeper's paradise that won't cost you a dime, and the views from the tower are truly Instagram-worthy.

Caesar's Head State Park Overlook - Breathtaking and Accessible

Location: Near Greenville, SC

Photo courtesy of Southcarolinaparks.com

In under an hour from Greenville, you can be at Caesar's Head State Park Overlook. This hidden gem offers a simple and free way to savor the fall foliage. No need to stress about parking reservations; it's hassle-free! Stand at the overlook, take a deep breath, and let the breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains in all their fall glory wash over you.

Bald Rock Heritage Preserve - Easy and Stunning

Location: Geer Highway, SC

A quick ten-minute drive from Caesar's Head State Park along Geer Highway brings you to Bald Rock Heritage Preserve. This roadside pull-off boasts a jaw-dropping panoramic view of the surroundings. It's right by the highway, super accessible, and totally free! The views here during the fall season are like something out of a dream.

Jones Gap State Park - Dive into the Foliage

Location: Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, SC

Photo courtesy of Southcarolinaparks.com

For a more immersive experience with the fall foliage, head to Jones Gap State Park, just 45 minutes northwest of Greenville. It's in the heart of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area and home to the Jones Gap Falls Trail, a 3-mile out-and-back moderate hike. While there's an admission fee here, and you'll need parking reservations on weekends, it's worth every penny. Don't forget to book your spot on the South Carolina State Parks website for an unforgettable leaf-peeping adventure.

Paris Mountain State Park - Your Nature Escape

Location: Near Greenville, SC

Only 20 minutes northeast of Greenville is Paris Mountain State Park. This park has a variety of trails, catering to all levels of hikers. Whether you're up for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, there's something for everyone. While there's no reservation system here, there is an entrance fee, and it can get busy. Be sure to get there early to secure your spot!

As the leaves put on their colorful show and temperatures cool down, these handpicked leaf-peeping spots near Greenville and Pickens promise a genuinely enchanting experience. We recommend planning your visits, especially on weekends, and checking for any reservation requirements. Embrace the fall season's beauty, and get ready to witness nature's breathtaking artistry in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and foothills. It's a journey you won't want to miss!