One of the River Alliance’s greatest accomplishments is the Three Rivers Greenway. Recently named as one of the country’s most promising ways to reconnect Americans to the natural world, the Three Rivers Greenway is a must-see in the Capital city.
The Three Rivers Greenway is a 12 1/2 mile, and growing, linear park that is located in the cities of Columbia, West Columbia and Cayce. This beautiful series of riverfront pathways – where the Broad, Saluda, and Congaree Rivers meet – includes lighted trails and boardwalks, outdoor amphitheaters, restrooms and breathtaking views of the Columbia skyline in a dog friendly and ADA accessible environment that everyone can enjoy. Download a printable map here.
Three Rivers Greenway Offers Nature Getaway In The City
A trip to South Carolina’s capital city may include more outdoor recreation than you expected. Just paces away from everything urban — hotels, upscale restaurants and shopping centers — Columbia visitors have access to a lush getaway in the form of the Three Rivers Greenway.
Whether your interests are sporty, splashy or serene, the Broad, Saluda and Congaree Rivers provides fun and full days of activity to Midlands’ residents and tourists, alike.
The River Alliance’s Three Rivers Greenway project has already opened 12.5 miles of pathway along the area’s rivers. Lighted and paved trails equipped with emergency call boxes, bathroom areas and water fountains, wind through the cities of Columbia, West Columbia and Cayce.
Along these pathways, folks can stroll, jog, bike or blade. Casual walkers, hand-in-hand or hand-to-leash, can stop to read informational wayside exhibits on the history and habitat of the area, or to picnic at a scenic spot overlooking the water. All areas of the Greenway are dog friendly, and all paths are ADA accessible, accommodating baby strollers and wheelchairs.
The sportsman might opt to spend an afternoon reeling in the Congaree’s signature striper and trophy fish. Some of the best fishing waters in the state can be found along the Greenway.
The more adventurous (and experienced) river rats can access the water at several points with their canoes or kayaks and challenge the white water rapids on the Saluda River. Or, if relaxation is the goal, families and friends can meet to float lazily down the lower Saluda to the Congaree River in inner-tubes.
Resting on a bench at sunset, simply absorbing nature’s sights and sounds, might be your perfect river rendezvous with a loved one. The purity of the outdoors also offers inspiration for painting, writing or taking photographs. Bird watching and people watching are common pastimes on the Three Rivers Greenway.
Thanks to the Three Rivers Greenway, there is a wealth of things to do, see and feel in the metropolitan Columbia area to reconnect with nature. Whether you call one of these three city’s home, or are visiting the area, make sure to take part in the glorious natural resources of the Broad, Saluda and Congaree Rivers.
Have you ever thought of taking a “walking tour of the Greenway” on your phone?
Check out these links to load your app! Available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian
For the Android app: http://www.appbrain.com/app/three-rivers-tour/com.brinkman.ThreeRiversTour
For the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad (Requires iOS 4.2 or later): http://itunes.apple.com/ae/app/threerivers/id443059148?mt=8
For other apps: http://www.historysoft.com/
Thank you so much to David Brinkman for these wonderful apps!