Many people head into the scenic Western North Carolina mountains in the summer to escape the sticky summer heat, and in the fall for the vibrant explosion of color as the seasons change. There are plenty of things to do in Western North Carolina, but one of our favorite spots to spend a day in nature is just over the North Carolina–South Carolina line. Jones Gap State Park is a hidden gem for hikers and outdoor lovers.
Located about 30 minutes from our Saluda Hotel, this protected stretch of the Blue Ridge Escarpment offers stunning forest trails, mountain streams, and dramatic waterfalls. Whether you’re trekking to the cascading Rainbow Falls or exploring the Middle Saluda River Trail, Jones Gap State Park delivers a rewarding mix of rugged natural beauty and quiet adventure. It also offers fewer crowds than more well-known parks, making it an ideal day trip for anyone looking to stretch their legs and reset in nature.
Of course, hiking at Jones Gap State Park is just one of the many things to do in Saluda and the surrounding mountains. Head over to the Green River Gorge for kayaking, ziplining, and scenic overlooks, or explore nearby Pearson’s Falls for a short hike to a 90-foot waterfall just minutes from downtown. A little farther out, you can stroll through Hendersonville’s apple orchards, sample ciders and local brews, or spend the day wandering the art galleries and historic districts of Asheville. The western North Carolina mountains are full of surprises, from peaceful back roads and heritage farms to sweeping views along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
After a full day on the Jones Gap State Park trails or exploring the mountains near Asheville, there’s no better place to unwind than the Orchard Inn and Spa in Saluda. Perched above town, our Saluda hotel offers comfortable, elegant accommodations with sweeping views, chef-prepared breakfasts and dinners, and the kind of warm hospitality that turns a short getaway into a truly memorable escape. Whether you’re hiking at Jones Gap, visiting local shops, or simply soaking in the mountain air, let our Saluda Hotel be the perfect home base for your adventure. Book your stay today!
The Best Trails at Jones Gap State Park, SC
Jones Gap State Park is part of the larger areas in Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area in northern South Carolina, a region known for its rich biodiversity, rugged terrain, and pristine streams. Located about 30 minutes from our luxury hotel in Saluda, it’s an easy and scenic drive that leads to a rewarding day of hiking and wildlife watching. Jones Gap State Park offers more than 60 miles of trails, ranging from gentle riverside strolls to challenging climbs with sweeping views.
Jones Gap also offers access to the Middle Saluda River, South Carolina’s first designated scenic river. It’s not only beautiful, but it’s an excellent river for fishing, with clear, cold water ideal for trout. A valid South Carolina fishing license is required. As you hike through this gorgeous wilderness area, you’ll get the sense that you’re exploring a less-traveled corner of the mountains, an experience that’s different from other park systems and trail networks in western North Carolina.Â
To make the most of your day, it’s smart to plan ahead. The park has limited parking and fills up quickly on weekends and peak seasons. There’s a $6 admission fee for adults, and the trails are open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the summer months. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, water, and snacks. Many trails are rocky and steep in sections, and cell service is spotty. You’ll also want to grab a trail map at the visitor kiosk, as Jones Gap State Park trails are interconnected to the rest of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, which means you can end up on longer hikes than you may expect if you aren’t careful.Â
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick out-and-back or a full-day trek, Jones Gap State Park SC has something for every kind of hiker. Here’s a list of the top trails to check out during your visit:
Top Hikes at Jones Gap State Park
- The Rainbow Falls Trail at Jones Gap State Park is a gorgeous 4.4-mile hike and one of the most popular in the Mountain Bridges Wilderness Area. This challenging trail rewards your effort with a spectacular 100-foot waterfall. It’s steep and rocky, but worth every step.
- The Jones Gap Trail is a challenging 10-mile round-trip hike that follows the Middle Saluda River. There are plenty of smaller waterfalls to enjoy along the way, including Jones Gap Falls, plus a few fishing spots. You don’t have to do the whole hike, but it’s incredibly rewarding if you do.Â
- The Coldspring Branch Trail is a 2.6-mile trail with creek crossings, forest views, and a peaceful atmosphere. It connects up to several other trails in Jones Gap State Park and is great for hikers seeking solitude and a moderate workout.
- The Hospital Rock Trail is a strenuous 4.4-mile trek that starts in Jones Gap Park. It’s one of the more strenuous hikes in the park, but it is far less crowded than others. It leads to a massive rock formation with Civil War-era carvings, not to mention the sheer granite walls of Cleveland Cliffs and the 100-foot Falls Creek Falls.
- If you’re looking for spectacular views while hiking at Jones Gap State Park, SC, don’t miss Pinnacle Pass. This trail is 10 miles long and best for experienced hikers. The summit trail offers a challenging climb and a rewarding overlook across the Mountain Bridge Wilderness, as it navigates along one of the highest ridges in the state. It’s the longest trail in the Mountain Bridges Wilderness Area.
With its untamed beauty and well-maintained trail system, Jones Gap State Park is a fantastic choice for day hikers based at the Orchard Inn in Saluda. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, birdwatching along the river, or just soaking in the natural quiet, you’ll leave feeling grounded.Â
Relax in Style at Our Luxury Saluda Hotel
After a rewarding day exploring the Jones Gap State Park trails, there’s nothing better than returning to the comfort and charm of our elevated Saluda Hotel. Just a short drive away in the quiet mountain town of Saluda, this elegant retreat makes it easy to balance outdoor adventure with luxurious relaxation. Whether your legs are sore from the Rainbow Falls climb or you’re just looking to unplug and recharge, our luxury boutique hotel offers thoughtful hospitality and peaceful surroundings to round out your mountain getaway.Â
Guests love our Saluda Hotel for its attention to detail, from chef-prepared breakfasts made with local ingredients to cozy rooms and cottages with mountain-view porches. The on-site spa is perfect for soothing tired muscles after a day on the trail, and evenings can be spent sipping wine on the terrace, reading by the fireplace, or enjoying a gourmet dinner at Newman’s, the Inn’s award-winning restaurant.
Regardless of what brings you to our Saluda Hotel, it won’t take you long to embrace the slower, quieter pace we enjoy here in the Western North Carolina mountains. Time slows down here, but the experience always stays refined. With easy access to both Jones Gap State Park SC and other outdoor gems in the region, fresh air and fine living are never too far away. Our Saluda Hotel is not just one of the best places to stay near Jones Gap; it’s one of the best getaways in North Carolina. Book your stay today!
