Harbison State Forest (Columbia, SC)
The Midlands' favorite mountain bike spot: about 18 miles of trail in a 2,100-acre forest on the Broad River, right inside Columbia.
| Location | Columbia, SC |
| Drive from our store | About 2 hr 30 min |
| Length | About 18 miles of trail |
| Surface | Singletrack with switchbacks, drops, and rocky sections |
| Skill level | Beginner to advanced |
| Cost | Parking fee per vehicle (about $5), or an annual permit |
| Main gate hours | 9 am to 4:30 pm |
SC Forestry Commission page for current conditions, hours, and fees.
About the ride
Harbison State Forest is one of the largest green spaces inside a city east of the Mississippi, about 9 miles from downtown Columbia. The trails wind through pine and hardwood forest, cross creeks, and drop down to the Broad River.
Most of the trails are fast, flowing cross-country riding that works for newer riders. Midlands Mountain and Spiderwoman are the technical ones, with rocks, drops, and steeper terrain. There's even a bike wash station.
The forest holds water after rain, so give it a day or two to dry out.
Where to park
| Lot | Address | Links |
|---|---|---|
| Main parking lot | 5600 Broad River Rd, Columbia, SC 29212 |
Map Directions |
Pay for parking at the fee box, online, or at the forest office.
Good to know
- A parking permit is required for every visit.
- Check the gate hours before you go.
- Skip it right after heavy rain.
- A bike wash station is on site.
Stop by Okana Outdoors before you ride
We are at 1101 Parkside Main, Greensboro, GA 30642, in the Publix shopping center next to Amici. We sell and service Trek, Electra, Aventon, and Segway bikes.
Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday 11am to 5pm, closed Sunday. Heading out early on a weekend? Stop by the day before so you have what you need.
Questions about where to ride? Call us at (706) 405-3393.
Road trip? Need a way to haul your bikes? We rent a 2-bike hitch carrier that fits a 2-inch receiver. See rentals.
See all bike trails near Lake Oconee
Trail information is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Conditions, closures, fees, and parking can change without notice. Please check with the park or trail manager before heading out, and ride within your ability.