The best walks and hikes in Lexington County

Hike the 6.8-mile Timmerman Trail through shaded woods and along Congaree Creek, exploring historical sites and enjoying accessible paths.

Hike the easy 2.0-mile Lake Murray Dam Walkway for scenic views of Lake Murray and the Columbia skyline from the paved Dreher Shoals Dam.

The Mungo Park Trail in Columbia, South Carolina, offers a surprisingly tranquil escape on what was once a golf course. You'll follow paved paths that trace the old cart routes, winding through rolling green hills and crossing over Rawls Creek via charming footbridges. It's a unique blend of maintained parkland and natural areas, perfect for a peaceful outing where you can enjoy the quiet transformation of the landscape.

This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hiking route has a gentle 161 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 11 minutes to complete. It's an ideal spot for families or anyone looking for an accessible, low-effort walk. Parking is readily available, and the trail is enjoyable year-round, though spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather.

What makes this trail particularly special is its origin: it's built on the former Rawls Creek Golf Course, a gift from the Mungo family. The park spans 118.4 acres and is also recognized as an official Kids in Parks TRACK Trail, offering self-guided activities to help families connect with nature. It's a true community asset, providing a natural retreat right within the city's reach.

The Three Rivers Greenway Trail offers a wonderfully accessible escape, weaving along the banks of the Broad, Saluda, and Congaree Rivers. This paved pathway provides diverse riverfront scenery, from shaded sections under dogwood and oak trees to open views of the Columbia skyline, making it a perfect urban green space. You can even spot the historic Gervais Street Bridge, a 1926 landmark, as you enjoy the easy terrain, which is suitable for all ages and abilities.

Getting to the Three Rivers Greenway Trail is simple, with ample parking available at various access points, often conveniently located near local amenities. The route is well-maintained and features useful facilities like restrooms and water fountains, ensuring a comfortable outing. It's a fantastic family friendly option, and your leashed canine companions are welcome too, making it a popular choice for a relaxed day out.

Beyond its recreational appeal, the Three Rivers Greenway Trail holds significant historical value, with segments like the 12,000 Year History Park offering insights into the region's past, including Native American tribes and Civil War skirmishes. This 2.6-mile (4.2 km) easy hike, with a mere 40 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, is celebrated for its role in reconnecting people with nature, blending urban exploration with natural beauty.

The Lake Archers Loop is a wonderfully accessible and easy hiking trail, perfect for a quick nature break. This gentle route covers just 1.1 miles (1.8 km) with a negligible 10 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain, making it a breeze to complete in about 27 minutes. It's an ideal choice for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a peaceful, undemanding walk through a natural setting.

Planning your visit to the Lake Archers Loop is straightforward; it's a trail designed for convenience. You'll find parking readily available at the trailhead, and due to its short length, no special permits or extensive gear are required. It's a great option for a spontaneous outing, and you can enjoy it at any time of day or year, making it a flexible addition to your outdoor plans.

What makes the Lake Archers Loop particularly appealing is its simplicity and family-friendly nature, offering a quiet escape from the bustle of daily life. Unlike more challenging trails, this loop focuses on providing a relaxing experience, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings without any strenuous effort. It's a fantastic spot for a leisurely stroll or to introduce young children to the joys of hiking.

Hike the easy 1.5-mile Green Trail Loop in Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve, gaining 127 feet over 38 minutes.

The Cayce Riverwalk offers a delightful stroll through a shaded riverine forest, providing picturesque views of the Congaree River and the Columbia skyline. You'll navigate paved pathways and wooden boardwalks, encountering public art installations and historical markers that add a unique cultural layer to the natural scenery. It's an easy 1.8-mile (2.9 km) route with minimal elevation gain, making it a serene escape for all.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Cayce Riverwalk boasts excellent amenities including free parking, restrooms, and picnic tables. The trail is fully ADA accessible and lighted, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, and enjoyable even after dusk. Its shaded nature makes it a comfortable option for hiking during warmer months, and it tends to be a quieter alternative to other nearby trails.

This trail is a notable part of the larger Three Rivers Greenway system, connecting you to both natural beauty and significant historical sites like the 12,000 Year History Park. Beyond the scenic overlooks and public art, the area is rich in wildlife, offering opportunities for bird-watching with sightings of owls, hawks, and eagles. It's a perfect blend of nature, history, and art for a relaxed outing.

Explore the easy Crooked Creek Trail in Crooked Creek Park, a 0.6-mile hike through wetlands and forests with views of the Chattahoochee Riv

Enjoy an easy 0.4-mile hike around Gibson Pond Park, a paved loop offering serene lake views and a peaceful, wooded setting.