Here are the 3 best scenic drives for fall foliage in SC, new survey shows

Sarah Claire McDonald
·2 min read

Every autumn as the seasons begin to change and temperatures begin to cool, South Carolina roadways, like many others across the country, start to undergo a colorful transformation of the local fauna.

Some fall enthusiasts even travel to certain points of the U.S. to see the natural beauty of the changing colors in person.

Fall foliage along the ridges and valleys south of Blowing Rock, N.C. on Hwy 321 explode with color Sunday, October 25, 2015. The lower elevations including the Triangle area are starting to hit their peak color this week.
Fall foliage along the ridges and valleys south of Blowing Rock, N.C. on Hwy 321 explode with color Sunday, October 25, 2015. The lower elevations including the Triangle area are starting to hit their peak color this week.

Where should you visit most in the Palmetto State to view such a spectacle?

The Blue Ridge Mountains are the prime location to view the vibrant colors of fall, but more specifically, Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway was voted as South Carolina’s best drive for fall foliage in 2023 following a survey of 3,000 individuals to determine America’s top 140 drives for fall foliage this year by Gunther VW Coconut Creek.

Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway in South Carolina was ranked the fourth best scenic drive to view fall foliage nationwide out of a list of 140.

The scenic byway winds through the Palmetto State’s upcountry and spans along SC Highway 11, which follows along the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering panoramic viewpoints of rolling hills, forests, lakes and the vibrant fall colors that accompany them.

During this time of year, the deciduous trees in the area turn bright reds, oranges and yellows.

“The byway’s charm is not just limited to its landscapes. Along the route, travelers can explore historic sites, local orchards, and artisanal craft shops, offering an immersive experience into the culture and heritage of the region,” detailed the study.

Following the survey, two other South Carolina scenic drives made the list.

The second most popular in the state, placing 48th overall, was the Falling Waters Scenic Byway.

This scenic, 13-mile-long stretch travels through a portion of the Upstate, provides an immersive experience for those traveling through the destination and is located primarily in the Sumter National Forest area.

If this panoramic view at Falling Waters doesn’t soothe your soul, we give.
If this panoramic view at Falling Waters doesn’t soothe your soul, we give.

Sassafras Mountain (US 178) was ranked third in the state and also voted 72nd nationally. This scenic route follows the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers higher elevations than the other two as Sassafras Mountain, the highest point in South Carolina, provides expansive panoramic views of the surrounding foliage.

Sassafras Mountain, South Carolina’s highest elevation, is closed to the public.
Sassafras Mountain, South Carolina’s highest elevation, is closed to the public.

As for the overall scenic roadways throughout the nation, the top five include:

1. Seneca Trail US Route 219, West Virginia

2. Falls Road (MD Route 25), Maryland

3. Allegheny Scenic Drive, Pennsylvania

4. Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway, South Carolina

5. Rim Rock Drive, Colorado