The best walks and hikes around Olympia

Hike the 6.8-mile Timmerman Trail through shaded woods and along Congaree Creek, exploring historical sites and enjoying accessible paths.

The Three Rivers Greenway Trail offers a wonderfully accessible escape, weaving along the banks of the Broad, Saluda, and Congaree Rivers. This paved pathway provides diverse riverfront scenery, from shaded sections under dogwood and oak trees to open views of the Columbia skyline, making it a perfect urban green space. You can even spot the historic Gervais Street Bridge, a 1926 landmark, as you enjoy the easy terrain, which is suitable for all ages and abilities.

Getting to the Three Rivers Greenway Trail is simple, with ample parking available at various access points, often conveniently located near local amenities. The route is well-maintained and features useful facilities like restrooms and water fountains, ensuring a comfortable outing. It's a fantastic family friendly option, and your leashed canine companions are welcome too, making it a popular choice for a relaxed day out.

Beyond its recreational appeal, the Three Rivers Greenway Trail holds significant historical value, with segments like the 12,000 Year History Park offering insights into the region's past, including Native American tribes and Civil War skirmishes. This 2.6-mile (4.2 km) easy hike, with a mere 40 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, is celebrated for its role in reconnecting people with nature, blending urban exploration with natural beauty.

The Riverfront Park Canal Greenway offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue right in Columbia, South Carolina. As you stroll along the paved path, you'll be treated to scenic views of the Broad and Congaree Rivers, often framed by trees draped in Spanish moss. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like sunning turtles and deer, and in spring, the unique Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies. The trail is predominantly flat and accessible, making it a pleasant experience for all.

Planning your visit to the Riverfront Park Canal Greenway is straightforward. This easy 0.3-mile (0.6 km) route, with a minimal 37 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 9 minutes, though you'll likely want to linger longer. It's a fantastic option for family-friendly hiking and is also dog-friendly. The path is well-maintained and often illuminated, making it suitable for walks from morning to evening, and parking is readily available at Riverfront Park.

Beyond its natural charm, the Riverfront Park Canal Greenway is steeped in history, preserving the 19th-century Columbia Canal that once powered local mills. Informative displays along the route, including at the Columbia Canal Headgates, tell the story of the city's industrial past. You'll also find an old turbine house and a historic 1908 iron bridge, offering glimpses into a bygone era. It's a perfect spot to combine a gentle walk with a dose of local heritage.

The Cayce Riverwalk offers a delightful stroll through a shaded riverine forest, providing picturesque views of the Congaree River and the Columbia skyline. You'll navigate paved pathways and wooden boardwalks, encountering public art installations and historical markers that add a unique cultural layer to the natural scenery. It's an easy 1.8-mile (2.9 km) route with minimal elevation gain, making it a serene escape for all.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Cayce Riverwalk boasts excellent amenities including free parking, restrooms, and picnic tables. The trail is fully ADA accessible and lighted, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, and enjoyable even after dusk. Its shaded nature makes it a comfortable option for hiking during warmer months, and it tends to be a quieter alternative to other nearby trails.

This trail is a notable part of the larger Three Rivers Greenway system, connecting you to both natural beauty and significant historical sites like the 12,000 Year History Park. Beyond the scenic overlooks and public art, the area is rich in wildlife, offering opportunities for bird-watching with sightings of owls, hawks, and eagles. It's a perfect blend of nature, history, and art for a relaxed outing.