The Columbia, South Carolina area features a variety of scenic parks and trails suitable for hiking, biking, birdwatching, and family outings. Here are the top outdoor destinations around the state capital, highlighting their locations, amenities, and unique attributes.
Essential Parks and Trails
Congaree National Park
South Carolina’s only national park, featuring an ADA-accessible boardwalk through old-growth hardwood forest, plus floodplain hiking trails. Entry is free.
Harbison State Forest
Popular for runners and mountain bikers, this forest northwest of downtown offers 9 trail loops for varying skill levels. A day pass ($5) or annual pass ($25) is required.
Sesquicentennial State Park (“Sesqui”)
Within city limits, Sesqui features “Sandhills Hiking Trail” and a popular 6.1-mile mountain biking loop, plus kayak rentals and picnic areas. Entry is $3.50–$6.
Three Rivers Greenway
Riverside greenway stretches 12.5 miles through Columbia, West Columbia, and Cayce, connecting city parks and offering ADA-accessible paths, public art, and wildlife viewing.
Dreher Island State Park/Lake Murray
A short drive from central Columbia, it offers camping, lake access, boating, and trails such as the 2-mile Little Gap Trail. Entry is $1.50–$3.
Saluda Shoals Park
Family-friendly riverside park with hiking trails, kayaking, nature programs, and accessible boardwalks.
Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park
Urban park joining the Three Rivers Greenway, best for riverside strolls, cycling, and historic canal displays.
Recommended Urban Paths
Palmetto Trail Capital City Passage
This segment of South Carolina’s statewide trail system goes straight through the city, connecting downtown monuments with parks and eateries.
Timmerman Trail & West Columbia Riverwalk
Tranquil greenway on Congaree River, ideal for easy walking and birdwatching, with scenic creek views.
Quick Tips for Visitors
Most trails welcome dogs on leash and offer varying accessibility, from paved ADA paths to rugged natural surfaces.
Popular sites can get busy on weekends—early arrival is recommended, especially for parking.
Follow local trail safety, check for weather/flood advisories, and bring water, bug spray, and sun protection.
Columbia’s outdoor options range from riverside greenways and urban forests to state parks and national wetland preserves, catering to all adventure levels and ages.
SOURCES
(https://www.experiencecolumbiasc.com/blog/post/trails-in-columbia-sc/)
(https://colatoday.6amcity.com/city-guide/play/columbia-sc-hiking-guide)
(https://catescompass.com/hikes-in-the-upstate-of-south-carolina/)
(https://southcarolinaparks.com/sesqui/trails)
(https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attractions-g54184-Activities-c57-Columbia_South_Carolina.html)
