Middle Saluda Passage is resplendent with waterfalls, dramatic (and challenging) elevation changes, and diverse ecosystems. The passage (marked with Palmetto Trail signs) connects about 14 miles of existing trails (with multiple-colored blazes) in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area of Jones Gap State Park and Caesars Head State Park. Highlights include Hospital Rock, The Winds, and Raven Cliff Falls, the latter a 420-foot mountain cascade. For the adventurous backpacker, rustic campsites are available throughout the wildly beautiful Jones Gap State Park. The passage is accessed from Jones Gap State Park (just past mile marker 3) and Raven Cliff Falls (between mile markers 10 and 11).

Camping: Primitive campsites are available for Caesars Head and Jones Gap State Parks and in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. These campsites are not drive-ups and have no water or electricity. Contact SC State Parks for information and reservations.

NOTE: Trail users may NOT park at Camp Greenville. There is no access to the Palmetto Trail into or out of Camp Greenville.

Trailhead at Jones Gap State Park: Traveling north from Greenville, SC, take US Hwy 276 through Travelers Rest, Marietta, and Cleveland. About 2 miles north of Cleveland, turn right at the Jones Gap State Park sign onto River Falls Road (SSR 97). River Falls Road becomes Jones Gap Road, which takes you into the park. The Palmetto Trail kiosk is located before crossing the bridge to the visitor center.

Trailhead at Raven Cliff Falls parking area:  Traveling north from Greenville, SC, drive about 30 miles on US Hwy 276 through Travelers Rest, Marietta, and Cleveland, and past the Caesars Head State Park visitor center. From the visitor center, drive 1.1 miles and turn right into the Raven Cliff Falls parking area.

^{Photograph #3 courtesy of Jason A G.}