We Did the Research, This Is Officially the Strangest Hiking Trail Name in South Carolina

It’s not difficult to figure out how most hiking trails in South Carolina are named. Typically, they fall into one of three categories: Biblical reference, an early settler, or flora/fauna. We don’t see too many modern trail names these days, so I naturally did a double-take when I came across the Spider Woman 2 Trail, one of the strangest hiking trail names in South Carolina. 

Sitting pretty in Columbia, South Carolina, the Harbison State Forest is one of the largest green spaces within city limits east of the Mighty Mississippi. Boasting 2,137 acres of forestland to enjoy, visitors to this natural playground can enjoy 18 miles of hiking and biking trails all within South Carolina’s capital city.

It’s a very popular spot for mountain bikers, but foot traffic is always welcome. Before you hit the trails, make sure to visit the Environmental Education Center. The 5,000-square-foot log building educates visitors about the region through a series of exhibits, maps, and educational programs. 

All visitors will need a permit to access Harbison State Forest, which can be purchased online or at the fee box in the main parking lot. Daily passes are $5. 

The Spider Woman 2 Loop is one of the 10 trails within the forest. It’s a 4.5-mile loop with minimal elevation (433 feet) and should take about two hours to complete. The other forest trails have fairly normal names (Lost Creek, Eagle, Crooked Pine, etc), so this one stuck out like a sore thumb. I appreciate whoever named this trail more than you know!

Now, this may not be the trail with the most breathtaking views or the most challenging terrain, but it is a scenic loop that’s a bit of a hidden gem. You could easily find yourself the only one on the trail, and let’s be honest… that’s what we’re all hoping for when we hike, right?

The trail is mostly well-maintained and well-marked, though some trail reviews do admit to pulling out their trail maps every so often. I’d always recommend having an AllTrails account before arriving at the trailhead, and this rule applies to any trail. 

The trail meets up with the Broad River for a little bit before heading back into the forest. This is where I’d sit for a spell and take in the view! 

As you wander through this emerald green forest, take note of the little things. The spring and summer months are perfect for spotting wildflowers. Mushrooms of all shapes and sizes grow from the ground, and the towering trees (there are 67 species of trees here!) provide ample shade along the way.

Those who are lucky will catch a glimpse of wildlife, including deer frolicking through the forest, turtles sunbathing near the river, and an endless variety of songbirds singing their melodies up above. And despite the trail's name, it’s not a trail known for spiders or anything like that—just your normal amount of woodland critters. 

You may not gain any superpowers from this trail, but you might feel like a superhero when you get back to your car. For more information, including permits, visit the Harbison State Forest page of the South Carolina Forestry Commission’s website.