The Palmetto Trail: Fort Jackson Passage

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For more information on this section of the Palmetto Trail, click here.

Fort Jackson Gate Hours:

Gate 1
5:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.—Inbound and outbound traffic, Monday through Friday
3:30 to 6:00 p.m.—Outbound traffic, Monday through Friday
Closed weekends

Gate 2
Around the clock, seven days a week
Commercial traffic on weekends only

Gate 4
5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.—Monday through Friday
Closed weekends
Commercial traffic must use Gate 4 on weekdays

Gate 5
5:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.—Inbound and outbound traffic, Monday through Friday
3:30 to 6:00 p.m.—Outbound traffic, Monday through Friday
5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Inbound and outbound traffic, weekends

The Fort Jackson Passage leads through the woods of this historic military base. Established in 1917, Fort Jackson was created for the training of troops for WWI. The fort is named for Andrew Jackson, seventh president of the US.

The singletrack trail is relatively flat, winding parallel Leesburg Road, but retains the beauty of the woods. The trail surface is sandy, drains well, and can be hiked, run, or ridden when other trails in the area are muddy. Be aware that you may encounter military personnel during some of their daily maneuvers. Bring water and insect repellent during the warm months.