Stewardship Trail

Harbison State Forest is located near Columbia, S.C. and the Stewardship Trail is the last of three hikes featured in the park. To start this loop, drive to Parking Area #6 which is located in the northernmost section of the Harbison State Forest and hike in a counter-clockwise direction to match the profile map show below in the more details section. There are many pine and maple trees along the route, and the trail is part of a project known as Forest Stewardship which teaches responsible land-use management in the wilderness. There are several projects along the route demonstrating these principles, and this area is also known for some of the best wildlife in the Harbison State Forest.

Hiking counter-clockwise, the trail makes a rapid decent to the Broad River at about 175 feet. There are several benches and a short spur trail leading to the river here, and much of the forest in this area was destroyed in 1997 by the southern pine beetle. Many people take a rest stop along the Broad River to enjoy the ensuing views and the tranquility of the water.