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Spoonauger Falls Trail

Sumter National Forest, South Carolina · 3 min read

Distance
1.5 mi
Elevation Gain
150 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
Year-round
Est. Time
1-1.5 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
1 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Spoonauger Falls: a two-tiered 50-foot cascade with a pool at the base
  • Less visited than King Creek Falls despite similar proximity to Burrells Ford
  • Short and easy for hikers of all experience levels
  • Creek corridor with spring wildflowers and year-round flowing water
  • Good photography spot in morning light when the falls face is lit
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Overview

Spoonauger Falls drops 50 feet in two tiers over a wide granite face near Burrells Ford in Sumter National Forest, a beautiful waterfall that sees a fraction of the visitors that come to nearby King Creek Falls. The 1.5-mile round trip descends to the falls through creek-bottom cove forest, returning by the same path.

The trail is appropriate for all experience levels. The falls are the sole destination, and they deliver. No permit is required.

The Route

Miles 0 to 0.75: Descent to the falls. The trail drops from SC-107 toward Spoonauger Creek immediately. The first half-mile passes through open cove hardwood with good wildflower habitat in spring. The falls are audible before they come into view.

The upper tier of the falls is visible first, a 20-foot fan drop that feeds the second tier, a wider and taller drop of about 30 feet into a plunge pool. The viewing area is at the pool margin.

Return by the same route.

When to Hike

March through May: Best flow and wildflower display.

Year-round: The falls run consistently in most years. Winter visits are possible and quiet.

What to Bring

This is a short hike. Many hikers carry 1 liter of water. A camera is the most worthwhile item.

Trailhead Access

On SC-107 about 0.5 miles south of the Burrells Ford Campground turnoff. Roadside pullout on the east side of the road. Limited parking for 3 to 4 vehicles.

Practical Details

No permit is required for day hiking on this trail. Dogs are welcome on leash. The trail is popular with families. No restroom facilities are at the trailhead; plan accordingly. Water sources are present along the trail but require treatment before drinking. No cell service is available in this area; download offline maps before leaving the main road.

The recommended season for this trail is Year-round. Conditions outside this window may include challenging weather, trail closures, or reduced accessibility. Always verify current conditions with the Sumter National Forest ranger district before visiting, particularly at the beginning and end of the recommended season when conditions are most variable.

The waterfall is a primary attraction; water volume varies with seasonal precipitation and is typically highest in spring. The water feature along this trail supports a range of wildlife; keep pets on leash near the water. Wildflower timing varies by year; spring and early summer are generally the peak bloom window.

Before any visit, review the Leave No Trace seven principles and our checking conditions guide for current fire restrictions, trail closures, and ranger district advisories. The America the Beautiful pass covers day use fees at developed recreation areas where applicable. Veterans and active military have additional access options covered in our veteran benefits guide.

Nearby

The King Creek Falls Trail is within walking distance of Burrells Ford Campground. The Chattooga River Trail starts at the same campground. The full Sumter National Forest guide covers all trails in the Andrew Pickens District. Follow Leave No Trace principles around the waterfall pool.

Trailhead Parking

Spoonauger Falls Trailhead on SC-107 near Burrells Ford. Roadside pullout. No fee. Limited parking.

← Back to Sumter National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Spoonauger Falls less visited than King Creek Falls?
Both waterfalls are similar in character and roughly equal in beauty, but King Creek Falls receives far more mentions in hiking guides and social media. Spoonauger's lower profile makes it a good choice for visitors who want a comparable experience with fewer people on the trail.
Can I see Spoonauger Falls and King Creek Falls in the same day?
Yes, easily. Both are within 2 miles of Burrells Ford Campground and can be combined into a half-day that totals about 3.5 miles of hiking. Visit Spoonauger first (less visited, so start fresh) then complete King Creek Falls before the midday crowds arrive.
Are there any hazards at the falls?
The viewing area near the pool base is on sloping rock that can be slippery when wet. Avoid scrambling on the falls face itself. The trail has no technical terrain but does descend to the falls; the return is uphill.