Midlands Mountain
Trail Activities: t
- Hike
- Mountain Bike
Length:
Type:
Surface:
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Features: t
- Information Sign
- Parking
- Visitor Center
- Restrooms
- Trail Head
- Pets
- Fee
- No Camping
Summary:
The impressive Midlands Mountain Trail climbs up a small ridge before descending to the river bottom. A more difficult route bypasses the river bottom for more of a challenge.
Perhaps the finest trail at Harbison State Forest, this blue blazed, moderately difficult 3.7-mile loop trail provides the feeling of hiking in the mountains. It starts with a steep climb to a ridge, but once on top the hike is easier. This trail passes through the Broad River floodplain, so there are times when the going can be very muddy. In that event, follow a “detour” trail along the ridge. Approximately halfway into the trail, you can also watch for a short spur to Harbison Bluffs where there is a great view of the Broad River.
As the name says, this is a multi-use trail, so mountain bikers and hikers share the narrow path. There are many interconnecting trails in the state forest, so you have the opportunity to vary both the length and difficulty of your hike. The Midlands Mountain Trail adjoins Spider Woman II, as well as the Firebreak Trail. Drinking water and restrooms are available at the Environmental Education Center.
Fees: Check the following website for fee information.
For trail status, please call (803) 896-8897.
The Harbison State Forest trail system is maintained with the help of the Friends of Harbison State Forest.
Directions:From Columbia: Drive west on Interstate 26 and exit at Harbison Boulevard. Turn left onto Harbison Boulevard and drive to Broad River Road. Turn right and the entrance to Harbison State Forest is on the left, just beyond the next traffic signal. Once in the forest, follow the gravel road for approximately 1.5 miles to Parking Area 5 on the right.
Harbison State Forest | 5600 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29212 | (803) 896-8890
Download | Coordinates | |
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Trail Segments (Paths) Trail Features (Points of Interest) |
Lat: 34.09160561837400 Long: -81.11767840209961 |
Not an overly difficult trail, but was relatively soggy and partially under water when I hiked it the day after some rain. There wasn't much to see, it's not a very photogenic trail. While peaceful and relaxing, I'm not sure I'd go out of my way to hike it again.