Hiking near Columbia

Recently a friend asked where to go hiking near Columbia. My first question was: How far do you want to travel? If you want to drive around two hours, you can hike in the mountains or along the coast. But if you are in need of a quick nature fix with less drive time, there are a number of under appreciated local trails within 20 miles.

Picnicking with friends at Harbison State Forest

View from the Stewardship Trail

Harbison State Forest is one of the closest. It is a gem just off Broad River Road not far from Columbiana Centre and Harbison Blvd. There are picnic shelters for fun cookouts with friends and a number of trails that will get you into the woods. The Firebreak Trail is the main loop that connects all of the trails. The Stewardship, Midlands Mountain and Spiderwoman Trails all provide glimpses of the Broad River. The Midlands is one of the most fun on mountain bike with a number of whoopty doos. The Spiderwoman Trail provides a short technical mountain bike ride or a nice hike. Lost Creek Trail, as one the longest trail at 7 miles, is one of my favorite trails (except in the summer when it is hot and buggy). If you are looking for a day hike or want to try mountain biking, Harbison is a great place to start. Buy an annual pass or don't forget your $5 for parking.

Hiking Congaree

Picnicking at Sesquicentennial State Park

Sesquicentennial State Park is a CCC-era park located just off Two Notch Road. It is another great place for hiking or biking; you can also canoe or camp. Situated in the Sandhills, there are a number of trails that circle a lake, but my regular hike/bike is the Mountain Bike Trail. It is a sandy, fun, 6 miles.


Congaree National Park is a bit more of a drive, but well worth the trip. It is the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Check in for the mosquito meter before heading out for a beautiful hike through the swamp.