3 Best Hiking Trails in Columbia, SC

“Sesquicentennial State Park covers about 1,419 acres and is the ideal spot for family reunions and group gatherings. The elevation gain of the trail is 19 feet to 351 feet. The trail is generally considered an easy trail route. The park features pines, camping sites, and nature trails. The park provides rental fishing boats, paddle boats, standup paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, fishing access to the 30-acre (12 ha) park lake, and four trails providing over 12 miles (19 km) of recreational access. During your visit, you can explore the various plants and trees along the trail while catching glimpses of small wild animals. Additionally, the park features several trails that you can traverse and enjoy. Here, visitors can engage in biking, hiking, running, and dog walking.”

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“Riverfront Park was opened for recreational use on the site where the historic Columbia waterworks were located. The park spans over 140 acres. This park was also the site of the world's first electrically operated textile mill, and the state's oldest hydroelectric plant is still operational. Riverfront Park spans 140 acres. The park, located directly west of Huger Street and divides the Historic Columbia Canal and the Congaree River, is roughly 167 acres in size. A scenic 2.5-mile jogging/walking track runs through a linear park, offering beautiful river views. Visitors can enjoy a brick amphitheater and a self-guided tour of the historic water plant. The entrance to Riverfront Park features an exercise station, and several benches along the path. The park is also equipped to host smaller performances.”

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“Harbison State Forest has 18 hiking routes, a canoe landing, picnic shelters, and a meeting place. The Education Forest offers nearly ten different trails for hiking. These trails are well-maintained. Visitors can explore all different ranges of trails, from beginner to hard. Harbison State Forest is one of the best places for outdoor activities. The forest comprises approximately 40% loblolly and shortleaf pine, 40% natural longleaf pine, and 20% bottomland floodplain hardwood drains. Harbison's soil types suggest it once formed one of the first ocean ridges on the coastal plain. All sections of the forest can be reached through the trail system and are accessible from the main parking lot on Broad River Road or the Environmental Education Center.”

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