3 Best Hiking Trails in Columbia, SC

" Sesquicentennial State Park approximately covers 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. This trail is generally considered an easy route. The trail features pines, camping sites, and nature trails. This nature haven also provides rental fishing boats, paddle boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, fishing access to the 30-acre park lake, and four trails providing over 12 miles 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, Sesquicentennial State Park features various facilities like available picnic tables, a spacious playground, public restrooms, kid-friendly hikes, and barbecue grills.

" Riverfront Park is a 140-acre ideal destination for recreational use, where the historic Columbia waterworks were located. The trail is also home to the world’s first electrically operated textile mill, and it features the state’s oldest hydroelectric plant, which is still in operation. 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 trail ensures numerous amenities such as public restrooms, picnic tables, kid-friendly hikes, and wheelchair accessibility for visitors' comfort.

" Harbison State Forest has 2,137 acres of forestland and 18 hiking routes, a canoe landing, picnic shelters, and a meeting place. This natural destination offers nearly 10 different hiking trails. Visitors can explore all the ranges of trails, from beginner to hard. The forest comprises approximately 40% loblolly and shortleaf pine, 40% natural longleaf pine, and 20% bottomland floodplain hardwoods. 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. Harbison State Forest also provides various facilities for visitors' convenience, including a designated pet area.