How to Hike Caesars Head State Park

Some say 13 is an unlucky number, but at Caesars Head State Park in South Carolina that is a good number because it is the number of trails traversing this 7,477-acre park. If there is a must-hike park in South Carolina, it has to be Caesars Head. Between Raven Cliff Falls, which is a 420-foot cascade of water, and the opportunity to spot hawks and eagles, Caesars Head is a great park.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A book on Southeastern avians
• Water
• Hiking boots
• First aid kit
• Snacks

1. 
    
   Raven Cliff Falls

   With so many trails to choose from, how do you find one that offers the best sights? The answer is go with the Raven Cliff Trails, which is a two- to four-mile trail that offers some fantastic postcard-worthy views of waterfalls.

2. Raven Cliff is not the only trail that offers a view of Raven Cliff Falls. Also, try the Natural Land Trust Trail, which is almost 12 miles going out and back. It is not only long, but also hilly. Twice you will go up and then down 1,000 feet in a matter of minutes, but the spectacular views make it worth the effort.

3. Another fun trail is the Dismal trail, which really isn't that much of a bummer. It is really just a very dark trail through heavy hardwood trees. It is a short loop trail and also offers some shots of Raven Cliff Falls.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to do this trail in the fall when hundreds of hawks are flying nearby.
• If you hike the Natural Land Trust, you do not have to hike the entire 5.8 miles back. There is a shortcut trail through the Raven Cliff Falls Trail.

Resources

• Raven Cliff Falls
• Caesars Head