Riverfront Park North

Natural Escape Along the Congaree

Nestled along the banks of the Congaree River in Columbia, South Carolina, Riverfront Park North spans 167 acres of refreshing outdoor space. It's part of the larger Three Rivers Greenway system, offering an excellent blend of natural beauty and places to play and unwind.

Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife - turtles sunning themselves on rocks and various birds swooping overhead are common sights here. If you're lucky enough to visit in spring, you might catch the rocky shoals spider lilies blooming in the river - an impressive sight along the waterway.

Trails Worth Traveling

The heart of this park is its paved trail system stretching over 5 miles along what was once the Columbia Canal's towpath. The flat, easy-to-navigate path hugs the river, offering nice views that change with each curve. No matter if you're out for a morning jog, an afternoon bike ride, or just a peaceful evening stroll, the trail accommodates all paces.

Want to go farther? The trail connects to other segments of the Three Rivers Greenway for extended adventures. And for those looking to mix up their exercise routine, fitness equipment stations dot the path, letting you combine cardio with strength training in the fresh air.

What You'll Find Here

Clean restrooms are housed in the historic dam keeper's shack near where you'll start your journey. As you explore, you'll find water fountains (with dog bowls for four-legged friends) at convenient intervals throughout the park.

When hunger strikes, several picnic areas with tables await - some offering particularly beautiful riverside views. The park is well-maintained with plenty of trash receptacles to help keep the natural setting pristine.

Peace of Mind

The paths are well-lit and regularly patrolled by park rangers, making this a safe space for everyone to enjoy. For additional security, emergency call stations are positioned along the trails.

Your furry friends are welcome here too, but you'll need to keep them leashed. The park offers some handicap-accessible picnic benches, though it's worth noting that the north parking area has a gravel/dirt surface.

Glimpses of the Past

As you wander through Riverfront Park North, you'll encounter remnants of Columbia's industrial history. The visible sections of the historic Columbia Canal and informational displays tell the story of how this area helped shape the city we see today.

Camera-Ready Vistas

Within the park, you'll discover vantage points and overlooks ideal for pausing to take in the beauty of the Congaree River. These spots are particularly popular with photographers hoping to capture the interplay of water, sky, and landscape.

Make sure to venture to the northern end of the park to see the canal diversion dam, which creates a charming waterfall effect - especially impressive after heavy rainfall. This picturesque feature acts as a natural endpoint for many visitors' journeys along the trail.

Beyond Walking

While the trails are the star attraction, the park offers more ways to play. Fishing enthusiasts frequently cast their lines from designated areas along the river and canal. On warmer days, some visitors enjoy wading in certain sections of the river to cool off.

The park also provides access points for kayaking, allowing paddlers to experience the Congaree from a different perspective during seasonal activities.