Find a Trail
Explore Abbeville County on foot, horseback, or wheels along trails that wind through forests, parks, and protected natural areas. With options ranging from easy nature walks to more rugged routes, these trails invite visitors to slow down, explore, and experience the outdoors in a way that fits their pace.
Featured Trails
Parson's Mountain Tower Trail
A scenic forest hike and one of Abbeville County’s most recognizable trail experiences, the Parson’s Mountain Tower Trail winds through wooded terrain before climbing to a historic fire tower overlooking Parson’s Mountain Lake and the surrounding forested landscape. The steady uphill climb is rewarded with expansive views and a strong sense of place, making this a favorite for hikers seeking both scenery and elevation.
Note: The fire tower is currently closed, but the trail remains open and accessible.
Trail Details
Sumter National Forest – Parson’s Mountain Recreation Area
Moderate Difficulty
$3 per vehicle
4 miles round trip
🅿️ Parking 🧺 Picnic area nearby
Long Cane Trail
A quiet forest hike offering a more immersive, back-to-nature experience within the Long Cane Ranger District of Sumter National Forest. The Long Cane Trail winds through wooded terrain with minimal development, making it ideal for hikers seeking solitude, natural surroundings, and a slower pace away from busier recreation areas.
This trail is less traveled and more rustic than park-based trails, rewarding visitors with peaceful scenery and a strong sense of seclusion.
Trail Details
Sumter National Forest – Long Cane Ranger District
Moderate Difficulty
$3 per vehicle to Fell Camp fee station
26 mile loop
🅿️ Limited roadside parking
🚲Mountain Biking
🐎Horse Riding & Camping
Calhoun Falls State Park
Mariner's Nature Trail
A short, easy walking trail within Calhoun Falls State Park, ideal for families and casual visitors.
This gentle nature trail offers a relaxed walk through wooded areas near the lake, making it a great option for a quick stretch, first-time hikers, or visitors pairing a walk with other park activities.
Trail Details
Easy Difficulty
.5 mile loop
$3 for adults, $1.50 for SC seniors (age 65+), $1 for children ages 6–15, and is free for children 5 and younger
Cedar Bluff Nature Trail
A peaceful woodland walking trail within Calhoun Falls State Park, well suited for scenic outings.
This dog-friendly nature trail follows the shoreline and winds through mature hardwood forests near Lake Russell, offering gentle elevation changes and a comfortable walk for casual hikers.
Trail Details
Moderate Difficulty
1.75 mile loop
$3 for adults, $1.50 for SC seniors (age 65+), $1 for children ages 6–15, and is free for children 5 and younger
Specialty Trails
McCalla Horse Trail
Designated equestrian trails in a protected natural area near Lake Russell.
McCalla State Natural Area offers a network of designated horseback riding trails through forested terrain near Iva. Located along Lake Russell, these trails provide a quiet, scenic riding experience within a special-use area managed for conservation and outdoor recreation.
Trail Details
Horseback Riding
Moderate Difficulty
10 miles
Permit may be required
Cedar Springs OHV Trail
Designated motorized trails for off-highway vehicle recreation in Sumter National Forest.
The Cedar Springs OHV Trail features a dedicated system of motorized trails through forested terrain in the Long Cane Ranger District. Designed specifically for off-highway vehicles, the trail offers a rugged riding experience within a managed forest setting.
Trail Details
All Terrain Vehicles & Dirt Bikes
Hard Difficulty
11.9 miles, various loops
$5 per OHV per day
Local Tip: Cell service can be spotty in forested areas. Download maps before you head out.
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