4.9
(6019)
17,376
hikers
00:49
3.19km
10m
Hiking
Hike the easy 2.0-mile Lake Murray Dam Walkway for scenic views of Lake Murray and the Columbia skyline from the paved Dreher Shoals Dam.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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3.19 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.95 km
242 m
Surfaces
2.52 km
272 m
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Monday 18 May
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Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The walkway is 1.7 miles one way, making it a 3.4-mile out-and-back journey. Most people can complete one direction in about 40 minutes, so expect around 1 hour and 20 minutes for the full round trip.
The trail is a paved path located directly across the top of the Dreher Shoals Dam. It's relatively flat with a gentle incline, making it easy and accessible for most visitors.
Yes, the paved and relatively flat path makes it ideal for families with children, and it is also accessible for baby strollers and wheelchairs.
You can find public parking on both the Irmo and Lexington sides of the dam. These areas also offer amenities like restrooms and picnic shelters.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the walkway. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to keep the path enjoyable for everyone.
The walkway is particularly popular at sunrise and sunset, offering breathtaking photographic opportunities over Lake Murray and views of the downtown Columbia skyline. These 'golden hours' provide stunning light.
There are typically no entrance fees or permits required to walk the Lake Murray Dam Walkway itself. However, specific amenities or areas within Lake Murray Public Park, such as the public beach on the Lexington side, might have their own regulations or seasonal fees.
You'll enjoy expansive vistas of Lake Murray on one side and, on the other, distant views of the downtown Columbia skyline. It's a great spot for bird watching, with eagles occasionally spotted.
The walkway itself spans the impressive Dreher Shoals Dam, an engineering marvel built in 1930. It was once considered the largest earthen dam in the world. The dam area also serves as a recreational hub with public parks on both sides.
Yes, public parks located on both the Irmo and Lexington sides of the dam offer amenities such as restrooms, picnic shelters, and even boat ramps and fishing piers.
No, the Lake Murray Dam Walkway is an out-and-back trail. You walk 1.7 miles across the dam in one direction and then return the same way for a total of 3.4 miles.