Hiking The Sandhills and Jackson Creek Trails At Sesquicentennial State Park
Located just outside Columbia, South Carolina, Sesquicentennial State Park—known affectionately as “Sesqui” by locals—offers two scenic and accessible hiking trails: the Sandhills Trail and the Jackson Creek Nature Trail.
With less than 100 feet of elevation gain, both trails are family-friendly and suitable for hikers of all ages. Leashed dogs are welcome, so feel free to bring your four-legged friends along for the adventure.
The Sandhills Trail is a two-mile loop that winds around the park’s peaceful 30-acre lake. Hikers will pass through shady forested areas and across boardwalks that span small wetland sections.
The trail is advertised as resurfaced and stroller-friendly, and while much of it—especially the paved front section around the lake—is smooth and easy to navigate, the forested portion includes older, worn asphalt that could be a bit tricky with a stroller.
Despite the small size of the lake, the surrounding scenery is beautiful. Towering trees and the mix of forest and wetland make for a pleasant and peaceful walking experience.
The Jackson Creek Nature Trail is a short, 0.5-mile loop that leads through a bottomland forest.
Along the way, interpretive signs offer insight into the native plants and wildlife that inhabit the park, making it a great educational experience for both kids and adults.
This shady trail is a perfect way to learn more about the park and immerse yourself in the area.
Begin your hike from the parking lot near the park office and gift shop.
Head down to the lake and look for the information board featuring Track and Kip—Sesqui’s nature mascots—along with pamphlets full of activities for kids and families to participate in during your hike.
This is where you’ll start your adventure. Start to the right, heading past the boathouse, where you’ll spot a small waterfall flowing over a spillway.
From there, follow the trail down and back up a small hill to reach the Jackson Creek Nature Trail. This loop ends connecting with the Sandhills Trail—just follow the white diamond blazes to stay on track.
Both trails are easy to navigate, and combining them results in a pleasant hike of just under three miles.
Keep your eyes open for local wildlife like fox squirrels, flying squirrels, pileated woodpeckers, turtles, and deer. Around the lake, Canadian geese are a common sight—so watch your step!
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing walk in nature or an opportunity to explore with the whole family, these trails at Sesquicentennial State Park are a must during your visit.
