Riverfront Park Canal Greenway

Yes, the trail is considered easy-walking with a low difficulty level. Its flat, paved surface makes it suitable for all ages and abilities, including those with strollers or wheelchairs.

The trail is predominantly flat and paved, following the old towpath of the historic Columbia Canal atop a levee. There's also a lower paved section along the river, accessible via stairs or a ramp, and a narrower "Broad River Trail" branching off through a riverine forest.

Parking is available at Riverfront Park, which serves as the primary access point for the Greenway. The trail is well-marked every quarter of a mile from there.

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Riverfront Park or the Canal Greenway.

You can enjoy diverse views of the historic Columbia Canal on one side and the scenic Broad and Congaree Rivers on the other. The path is lined with Spanish moss, and in springtime, you might spot rare Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies on the river's rocky shoals. Overlooks with benches provide spots to appreciate the landscape.

The trail follows the 19th-century towpath of the Columbia Canal, which was vital for transportation and hydropower. You'll find informative plaques and historic buildings like the pump house and turbine house. A memorial also acknowledges the laborers who dug the canal.

Wildlife sightings are common. You might see turtles sunning on rocks, deer, and occasionally otters or alligators along the canal. The area is also home to various bird species.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring is particularly beautiful with the blooming of Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies. Street lights provide visibility for visits during shorter daylight hours.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the park's cleanliness for all visitors.

Yes, in addition to the main paved towpath, there's a lower paved section along the river, accessible via stairs or a ramp, which offers a varied path for return trips. A narrower "Broad River Trail" also branches off, providing a more intimate experience closer to the water.

A significant point of interest is the Columbia Canal Headgates. The canal diversion dam at the end of the trail is also a notable sight, especially after heavy rains when it can resemble a "miniature impersonation of Niagara Falls."

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Palmetto Trail: Capital City Passage and the Three Rivers Greenway, making it part of a larger network of trails.