Brasstown Falls is Better Than Ever!
One of Oconee’s most visited waterfall trails has undergone major improvements.
For years, the trails leading to three scenic waterfalls, known collectively as Brasstown Falls, had been overused and were quite dangerous.
Even though the trails were unsafe, people continued to travel them having to scramble along sketchy narrow paths, climbing over gnarled tree roots, and clawing their way along the edge of rocky cliffs in order to reach the famed waterfalls. But not anymore!
Trail Upgrades
Like many of the waterfalls in our area, Brasstown Falls is located in the national forest. We’re grateful the U.S. Forest Service saw fit to improve these trails! What used to take close to two hours (round trip) of physical effort where one misstep could be disastrous, is now a pleasant, relatively easy walk that takes less than an hour.
The trail builders did a great job upgrading the trails. It took months of clearing better paths, building log stairs and ladders, in addition to constructing a bridge and viewing platforms. At one point there are 50+ earth and timber steps along the trail. Getting to all three of the waterfalls is now a safer experience with more accessible places for the public to enjoy the amazing scenery!
Getting there
Google directions are vague and there is not good signage leading to the trailhead.
You can access the trailhead from Brasstown Road in Long Creek, SC.
More specifically:
- Drive 2.6 miles down Brasstown Road
- When the pavement ends continue 1.3 miles on the dirt road
- Go right when the road forks
- Go .4 miles to the parking area and see the trailhead
The road is narrow so be prepared to slow down for oncoming vehicles.
You likely won’t have cell service on the drive nor the hike.
The hike is approximately 1.5 miles (round trip) to reach all three waterfalls. Upper Brasstown Falls is accessed from the left spur of the trail; Middle and Lower Brasstown Falls can be accessed from the main trail.
BBQ Bonus!
If you hike to Brasstown Falls on Friday or Saturday, consider stopping at Brasstown Creek Gathering Place for dinner (you’ll pass the restaurant on the way to the trailhead). It’s a lovely setting with outdoor seating next to Brasstown Creek. The barbecue is delicious and they have a good selection of sauces, sides, and homemade desserts.
Keep in mind: This place is just open FRIDAY & SATURDAY evenings and CASH ONLY.
- Tags: Adventure, Hiking, Waterfalls
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Post Author: Chanda Morrison
11 Responses
Heading there today for Valentines Day!
Do people get married here?
Hi Kaitlyn, Brasstown Falls if very scenic, but not appropriate for a wedding or event. Parking is VERY limited. There are some lovely settings for photographs though. I supposed it might be possible to have a small wedding ceremony near the top waterfall. But this US Forest Service property and I’m not sure what they would say about hosting a wedding event. The lower waterfalls are not conducive to a wedding.
The waterfall in Oconee County you may want to consider is Ramsey Falls. It’s located within Chau Ram County Park and can be seen from the parking lot. There are several rental structures at the park that would be more conducive to a wedding. The park also has restrooms and more parking to accommodate lots of cars.
I’m impressed with Georgia’s parks and facilities. You guys are fortunate. I love my NC but envy your dedication to recreation!
Hi, Thanks for taking the time to read the article and leave a comment. It’s always nice to hear how much people enjoy our trails and waterfall experiences! The border of Georgia and South Carolina is very near this spot.The Brasstown Falls trails are in the Andrew Pickens Ranger District, which is technically in South Carolina.
I’m impressed with Georgia’s parks and facilities. You guys are fortunate. I love my NC but envy your dedication to recreation!
Hi, Thanks for taking the time to read the article and leave a comment. It’s always nice to hear how much people enjoy our trails and waterfall experiences! The border of Georgia and South Carolina is very near this spot.The Brasstown Falls trails are in the Andrew Pickens Ranger District, which is technically in South Carolina.
My book lists 4 waterfalls Falls on Little Brasstown Creek, and then Upper and middle (where you have middle and lower) then the flume is listed as lower.
Thank you for the clarification. Though I’m not sure about the “flume”? As far I know that’s a manmade channel and I haven’t seen one or read about there being one associated with Brasstown Falls. -Chanda Morrison
can you go camping
No, unfortunately the Forest Service does not allow overnight camping at Brasstown Falls. This page has information about camping opportunities in the area https://visitoconeesc.com/visit/camping/.