South Carolina’s Saluda River forms about 10 miles north of the city of Greenville and flows for 200 miles through the Palmetto State before spilling into the Congaree River around Columbia. But before it does… it channels pure magic by way of a scenic vista perfect for an urban hike in the Capital City. Today, we are venturing to the Saluda Riverwalk, one of the most interesting and picturesque of South Carolina’s trails. So lace up those hiking shoes and bring your camera; this is one adventure you won’t want to miss!

Welcome to the Saluda Riverwalk, which travels a little more than 3.5 miles along the Saluda.
AllTrails/Kelly Benjamin
While the hike does dole out some wonderful, shady spots under dense canopies...
Most of the trail is quite literally right along the edge of the scenic river.
AllTrails/John & Kim B
And what a hike it is!
Facebook/Saluda Riverwalk
Bring the kiddos - and the dog - and explore some of what just may be the prettiest river hike in all of South Carolina.
AllTrails/Amanda Almeida
Boardwalks, natural paths, and pavement make up the surface of the trail, creating some diversity in the walking paths you'll follow.
AllTrails/D Bryant
And that view is quite simply to die for!
AllTrails/Kaitlyn Kellam
The Saluda, along with other South Carolina rivers, is part of the watershed of the Santee River, which eventually pours into the Atlantic Ocean between Georgetown and Charleston.
AllTrails/Brando Peake
Much like the Middle Saluda River that flows through Jones Gap State Park in the Upstate, this section of the Saluda in Columbia is filled with boulders and massive flat rocks.
It really is an impressive sight to behold!
AllTrails/John & Kim B
Have you explored the Saluda Riverwalk in Columbia yet?
AllTrails
If you're curious to see the Saluda Riverwalk in action and hear a bit of its history, watch the informative video below, courtesy of the City of Columbia:

“Water” you waiting for? Learn all about it from our friends at AllTrails!

Looking for even more river-friendly content? Check out our list of the 9 most scenic rivers in South Carolina. You won’t be disappointed!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

More to Explore

hiking in South Carolina

Beth C. | July 20, 2023

What are the best hikes in South Carolina?

South Carolina's diverse landscape lends itself to several different kinds of hiking trails for visitors to enjoy. Below you'll find a list of some of the best hikes in South Carolina:

 

All of the trails above vary in length, difficulty, and scenery. Find the perfect trail for you when you browse our ultimate guide to the best hiking in South Carolina. There's something for every kind of hiker on the list!

Does South Carolina have any national parks?

South Carolina is home to Congaree National Park, which is located in Hopkins, SC, and features the biggest expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern U.S.

Some other national park units in South Carolina include:

  • Charles Pinckney National Historic Site
  • Cowpens National Battlefield
  • Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
  • Kings Mountain National Military Park
  • Ninety Six National Historic Site
  • Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail
  • Reconstruction Era National Historical Park

 

Learn more about these wonderful national parks in South Carolina.

 

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Featured Addresses
Saluda Riverwalk, Candi Ln, Columbia, SC 29210, USA