Yellow Branch Falls

Oconee County is home to many of South Carolina’s most beautiful waterfalls, and Yellow Branch Falls is no exception. Nestled within the Sumter National Forest, this cascading waterfall is 50 feet high and 75 feet wide. The 1.5 mile Yellow Branch nature trail is a moderately difficult and rugged hike. It passes near the edges of deep ravines, so make sure to wear sturdy and comfortable shoes.

There is a picnic area located right off SC 28, which is within walking distance to the falls. If you are interested in visiting the falls, it is important to note that when it hasn’t rained for many days, Yellow Branch is reduced to merely a trickle. However, during the winter when the trees have dropped their leaves, you can see a great view of Walhalla from the falls.

More Pictures of Yellow Branch Falls

Reflections on Yellow Branch Falls

Photographer Jason Furda, who captured one of the photo below, writes: “Being adventurous, I decided to hike back to the falls without seeing an image of it. After the lengthy hike, I was rewarded with this amazing waterfall. The space is incredible. It is such a compact area for the size of the waterfall. I climbed up to the large rock opposite the falls and captured this with a wide angle lens. I love the many cascades this waterfall contains. Water changes direction so many times on its path downward, and the almost glowing green moss on the rocks contrasts the red and black rocks quite well.”