This relatively flat, winding section of the Palmetto Trail borders the Fort Jackson military training facility. Even though you parallel a busy road (Leesburg), the trail is far enough away that you can enjoy the beauty and wildlife of this wooded area. Since a lot of the trail surface is sandy it drains very well and can be hiked or ridden when other trails in the area are muddy. Most mountain bikers may not find this trail a challenge, since there is very little change in elevation, but you can still get a good workout. Be aware that you may encounter military personnel during some of their daily maneuvers. Bring water and insect repellant during the warm months.

Notice: Gate 1 to Gate 5 of the Fort Jackson Passage is permanently closed due to restrictions on Fort Jackson Base. The rest of the passage can be enjoyed by the public starting at Gate 5, by the Weston Lake and Boyd Passage trailheads.

The Capital City  and Boyd Foundation Passages connect to the Fort Jackson Passage.

Visitor Access: All visitors age 18 and older must obtain a Fort Jackson visitor pass and present a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification. Visitor passes should be requested online before arrival. Once approved, the pass is digitally associated with the identification used during the application process and may be scanned by the gate guard upon arrival

Hikers are enouraged to begin the Fort Jackson section no later than 1:00 p.m. to allow sufficient time to exit the installation by 5:00 p.m.

Trail Conditions:Significant trail damage has been reported along the Fort Jackson Passage, and trail maintenance is ongoing. Bridge replacement and trail remediation are also underway near mile 13. Trail users should proceed with caution and follow posted signs and temporary routing.

Hours: Dawn to dusk. Call the Directorate of Emergency Services to report violations of rules and regulations at (803) 751-3113.

Fort Jackson Gate Hours:

Gate 1 (Fort Jackson Blvd.) — Monday to Friday, 5:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Gate 2 (Forest Dr.) — Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Gate 4 (Boyden Arbor Rd.) — Monday-Friday, 5:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.

Gate 5 (Leesburg Rd.) — Monday-Friday, 5:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.- 5:00 p.m.

Gate hours and installation access procedures are subject to change. Visitors should verify current Fort Jackson access requirements before their trip.

Trailhead at Gate 1 — From I-77 take exit 10 (Fort Jackson Blvd). Follow Fort Jackson Blvd. past Gate 1 into the Fort and follow the traffic circle to Ewell Road. Stay right on Ewell Road and you will see the parking area on your right. The kiosk is across the street from the parking area.

Trailhead at Gate 5 — From I-77 take exit 9 (Leesburg Road). Follow Leesburg Road (State Route 262) east toward Sumter. Go approximately 3 miles and the entrance to Gate 5 will be on your left. Park outside the gate. The kiosk is inside the gate to the right.