Scenic Waterfalls at Wildcat Wayside, Cleveland, SC

Wildcat Wayside, located just outside Cleveland in the scenic Blue Ridge region of South Carolina, offers visitors a charming retreat into nature’s refreshing embrace. Known primarily for its series of cascading waterfalls, this outdoor spot stands out as an accessible and family-friendly destination in the Upstate area. Its combination of gentle hiking trails, pristine wooded surroundings, and peaceful water features make it a favored stop for travelers seeking natural beauty close to town.

The centerpiece of Wildcat Wayside is a sequence of three waterfalls that vary in size and character. The first two falls are easily visible and reachable via a short loop trail, providing perfect photo opportunities and moments of quiet reflection beside flowing water. The third waterfall, set against a tall 100-foot rock face, appears impressively after rainfall and requires a short, slightly challenging hike along a root-strewn path. The area’s plant life includes rhododendrons and mountain laurels, which add seasonal color and texture to the landscape, especially in springtime when blooms brighten the forest floor. Visitors will also notice old stone steps and remnants from early 20th-century developments, adding a touch of local history to the natural surroundings.

With its well-maintained loop trail measuring about half a mile, Wildcat Wayside is well-suited for hikers of all ages and skill levels. Dogs are welcome here, and the lower pools by the falls are popular for families to relax and cool down. Often, local vendors offer boiled peanuts near the parking area, offering a taste of Southern hospitality. Whether for a brief stop or a leisurely afternoon, this spot provides a memorable outdoor experience in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.