Sesquicentennial State Park
Midlands
Sesqui Trails
Sandhills Hiking Trail
Length: 1.9 miles
Type: Hiking Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Description: You will start this fairly easy walking loop trail from the sand parking area near the boat house and circle the lake. A number of boardwalks cross the wet areas, which are home for a variety of birds. From the bridge over Jackson Creek you will see a waterfall and a connection to the Jackson Creek Nature Trail. In the spring and early summer months you will be treated to the beauty of wild flowers and the cinnamon scent of sweet pepperbush.
Jackson Creek Nature Trail
Length: 0.5 miles
Type: Hiking Trail
Difficulty:
Description: Starting from the sand parking area near the boat house, turn right and follow the Hiking Trail along the shoreline of the lake. Just before you get to the bridge turn right, go downhill, and you will see the waterfall on your left. A sign marks the trailhead and tree limbs line the trail to guide you through a lowland area and onto a wooded hillside. When you reach the bridge above the waterfall, you can cross and return the way you came, or turn right and follow the Hiking Trail back to the parking area (approximately 1.5 miles).
Loop Road Trail
Length: 3.5 miles
Type: Hiking and Mountain Biking Trail
Difficulty:
Description: Starting from the Retreat Center parking area you will enjoy an easy walk, jog or ride on this tree lined path that circles the park. Since you are away from park activities you may see or hear a variety of birds. In the spring and early summer months you will be treated to the beauty of wild flowers and the cinnamon scent of sweet pepperbush.
Sesqui Mountain Bike Trail
Length: 6.1 miles
Type: Mountain Biking Trail
Difficulty:
Description: A very popular choice in Columbia, this trail is located 3 miles from downtown in the 1,419 acre Sesquicentennial State Park. Staring from the parking area, you will be riding on a sandy roadbed. Once you reach the loop section, you will see blue signs informing you of the direction of travel. The single track loop winds and rolls through a pine forest with a fast and sandy bottom. The sandy bottom of this trail provides good drainage and this trail can usually be ridden shortly after a hard rain, when other trails in the area are closed.