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Routes
Mountain biking trails
United States
South Carolina
Richland County
Columbia

Spiderwoman II Trail loop

Moderate

4.7

(2605)

6,284

riders

Spiderwoman II Trail loop

01:10

13.4km

120m

Mountain biking

The Spiderwoman II Trail loop offers a challenging and technical mountain biking experience within Harbison State Forest. You'll navigate a dynamic landscape of dirt and gravel, featuring numerous steep, narrow sections, tight turns, and a defining long rock garden with switchbacks. The route takes you from higher elevations down towards a creek, offering rewarding views of the Broad River along the bluff side, all within a remote-feeling pine and hardwood forest.

This moderate 8.3-mile (13.4 km) loop, with 380 feet (116 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, is best suited for riders with good fitness and advanced technical skills. It's not recommended for beginners due to the demanding terrain. The trail is located in Harbison State Forest near Columbia, South Carolina, and is accessible via the forest's main entrance.

Spiderwoman II Trail is particularly notable for its technical challenges, making it an excellent trail for working on and honing mountain biking skills. It's considered one of the most technical and remote-feeling trails within Harbison State Forest, providing a significant workout with its varied elevation changes and demanding features.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

2.16 km

Harbison State Forest

Highlight • Forest

Harbison State Forest is among the largest urban green spaces east of the Mississippi River, it offers 18 miles (ca. 29 km) of trails for mountain biking, hiking, and jogging. The 2,137-acre forest, only nine miles from Columbia, weaves through pine and hardwood landscapes, crossing streams to the river's edge.

Tip by

2

4.19 km

Spiderwoman II Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

This trail is the most technical section of the area. You will have to tackle a series of fun and rocky switchbacks.

Tip by

B

13.4 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

8.73 km

4.59 km

105 m

Surfaces

8.71 km

4.62 km

105 m

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Elevation

Elevation

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Weather

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Today

Wednesday 8 July

37°C

26°C

48 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Spiderwoman II Trail loop?

The trail is located within Harbison State Forest. Parking is available at the main entrance to the forest. Maps of the trails are typically available at the parking area.

Are there any fees or permits required to ride in Harbison State Forest?

Yes, Harbison State Forest generally requires a day-use fee or an annual pass for access. It's best to check the official Harbison State Forest website for the most current information on fees and permits before your visit.

Is this trail suitable for beginners?

No, the Spiderwoman II Trail loop is considered highly technical and challenging, often rated as the most difficult in Harbison State Forest. It features steep slopes, exposed boulders, roots, rocks, and a notable "Rock Garden." It's best suited for experienced mountain bikers looking to test and improve their technical skills.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the route?

The trail winds through a remote-feeling forest of mixed pine and hardwood. You'll follow Middle Creek, which is described as a mountain-like stream with large rock formations, and also enjoy scenic views of the Broad River from bluffs as the trail descends towards it.

What makes this trail particularly challenging?

This trail is known for its "strength-sucking" and "very technical" terrain. Expect treacherously steep slopes, abrupt dips, exposed boulders, and "hellacious climbs." Key features include a "Rock Garden" and a very difficult rock climb switchback, all on a narrow singletrack with many roots and rocks.

When is the best time of year to ride this trail?

While enjoyable in many seasons, it's generally advised to avoid riding after recent rain, as Harbison State Forest tends to hold water, making the already technical sections even more challenging and potentially damaging to the trail. Spring and fall often offer the most pleasant conditions.

Is the Spiderwoman II Trail loop dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails in Harbison State Forest, including this one. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Remember that this is a shared-use trail, so be mindful of other riders and hikers.

Does this route connect with other trails in Harbison State Forest?

Yes, the Spiderwoman II Trail loop is part of the extensive network within Harbison State Forest. The route itself incorporates sections of other trails such as Firebreak Trail, Midlands Mountain Trail, Eagle Trail, and Stewardship Trail, among others.

What's a good strategy for tackling the most difficult sections, like the Rock Garden?

The "Rock Garden" and the difficult rock climb switchback are defining features. For these highly technical sections, focus on line choice, maintaining momentum where possible, and being prepared for short, powerful efforts. Many riders use these sections to specifically work on improving their technical mountain biking skills.

Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks along the trail?

While not marked viewpoints in the traditional sense, the trail offers scenic views of the Broad River from bluffs as it descends. The "Rock Garden" and the challenging rock climb switchback are also notable, albeit difficult, landmarks on the Spiderwoman II Trail itself.

Is the trail shared with hikers?

Yes, the trails within Harbison State Forest, including the Spiderwoman II Trail loop, are shared with hikers. Always be courteous and yield to hikers, especially on narrow sections or blind turns.

Nearby routes

Moderate

5.0

50

Stewardship Trail loop

01:34h

18.5km

140m

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