Wildcat Branch Falls, also known as Wildcat Wayside Falls, is a series of waterfalls in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area along the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway. They are a roadside attraction near the junction of SC-11 and U.S. 276.
In the 1930s, the National Park Service experimented with small “wayside” parks located along major highways. They were meant to serve as short stopping places for motorists to picnic, hike, and fish. This park, officially called Greenville Wayside Park, was one of six trial waysides in South Carolina.
A paved parking area is available along SC highway 11 which can hold about 15 cars. There isn’t a lot of signage to mark the 1-mile trail or how to reach the 4 falls – 3 are part of Wildcat Branch Falls and there is another unnamed waterfall on the loop. I consider it to be a moderate-level hike because you will trek uphill in sections and have to traverse rocks over streams.
Lower Wildcat Falls
The 25-foot lower falls can be seen and accessed from the highway. Many visitors only stop to see this waterfall and leave, either not knowing about the others or too pressed for time. There are some boulders down to the base of the lower falls that you can sit or stand on.
Middle Wildcat Falls
Just to the left of the lower falls is a set of stone steps leading upstream to the middle falls.
This smaller 10-foot waterfall is a nice stop-off on your hike. You can easily walk up to the base. Continue on the trail by taking the stones steps across the creek.
Next on your way is an open area with the remnants of a 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps building – just the foundation and a stone chimney remain. There are some information signs explaining the history of waysides and facts about the area. From there, your route splits to the left and right. The wooden steps to your right start the loop to the upper falls.
Unnamed Falls
A smaller, unnamed waterfall will be to your right. The unmarked tributary flows about 15 feet down a rockface on the hill. As with the middle falls, you can walk directly to the base if you make your way slightly off trail. Cross the tributary and continue uphill.
Upper Wildcat Falls
The largest of the falls is the 100-foot upper falls. This waterfall also slides down a rock face and through small gaps in the boulders at the bottom.
Just beyond the main viewing area, the trees formed a nice frame to take photos through.
The upper cascade can be a dangerous area so take caution and don’t climb on the rocks. There have been several serious accidents here and at times this part of the trail has been closed to discourage this kind of behavior.
Finish the loop by walking back toward the building remnants. You’ll cross a few stones over the creek to head back toward the highway. I spotted some minnows in the water.
This is an awesome stop to see multiple falls all on one hike! I highly recommend it if you are in the area.
Five locations in one area to view falls… Sign me up!
It’s a fantastic spot – and the trail isn’t difficult which makes it extra fun!