Amazing Saluda Riverwalk Columbia SC: Scenic Trails, Wildlife & River Views, SC

For my last walk of 2021, I decided to return to the Saluda Riverwalk on Candi Lane in Columbia, South Carolina. I had enjoyed this park on previous visits, so it seemed like the perfect place to end the year. The trail is wonderfully scenic, meandering alongside the Saluda River on a combination of paved paths and wooden boardwalks. The main parking area sits roughly in the middle of the trail and has clean restrooms, making it a convenient starting point.

I walked both sides of the trail until I reached “Trail Closed” signs at either end and logged about 5 miles. The section leading to Boyd Island was closed during my visit, so I did not include it in my mileage. AllTrails lists the route at 7.3 miles, which I assume includes Boyd Island. The park is popular with walkers, runners, cyclists, and anglers, and there are plenty of picnic tables for those who want to relax along the river. On many visits, I’ve also seen kayakers and tubers enjoying the water, although the river was quiet on this particular day.

Wildlife is another reason I enjoy the Saluda Riverwalk. The park often attracts wildlife photographers, and on this visit I was fortunate to see deer, cormorants, turtles, river otters, geese, and a variety of birds. You never quite know what you’ll encounter along the river. The park was clean and well maintained, and I appreciated the educational signs along the trail explaining the area’s history and geography. They added an interesting layer to what might otherwise be simply a pleasant walk.

One of my favorite things about this trail is how accessible it is. The path is flat with essentially no elevation gain, making it an easy option for a leisurely walk, wildlife watching, or a day outdoors. Whether you’re looking to exercise, photograph wildlife, enjoy a picnic, or simply escape into nature for a few hours, the Saluda Riverwalk is well worth visiting.

If You Go

Location: Candi Lane, Columbia, South Carolina
Distance: I walked approximately 5 miles during my visit. AllTrails lists the route at about 7.3 miles, which may include the Boyd Island section.
Difficulty: Easy and flat, with no significant elevation gain.
Trail surface: A combination of paved trail and boardwalk.
Parking: The main parking area is located near the middle of the trail and has restrooms.
Activities: Walking, running, cycling, fishing, wildlife watching, photography, kayaking, and tubing.
Wildlife: Look for deer, river otters, turtles, waterfowl, and numerous bird species.
Family-friendly: The flat terrain makes this a good option for a relaxed outing.
Tip: Check current trail conditions before visiting, especially if you plan to walk toward Boyd Island, as sections can occasionally be closed.
Photography: Bring a camera and telephoto lens if you have one. Wildlife photographers frequently visit the park.