West Columbia stretches along eight miles of the scenic lower Saluda and Congaree Rivers, offering activities like kayaking, canoeing, tubing, parks, waterfront concerts, and 8.5 miles of biking and walking trails.

The Atlantic Seaboard Fall Line runs through West Columbia at the confluence of the Saluda and Broad rivers, where they form the Congaree River. This creates a 20-30 foot drop over a short distance, resulting in rapids and small waterfalls along the feeder creeks.

Some of the country’s most breathtaking natural scenery can be found along the river in West Columbia, which is one of the few South Carolina cities with whitewater right in its backyard. It’s also special because visitors can see the Spanish moss of the Lowcountry hanging over the rushing waters of the Upstate.

Click for video of small West Columbia Waterfall

Beyond diverse trees, bald eagles soar over the Congaree River in West Columbia, catching fish from its waters. A scenic highlight includes the waterfalls of West Columbia. On Botanical Parkway, the sound of flowing streams comes from three small waterfalls on rocky brooks that feed into Double Branch, a creek crossing under Botanical Parkway and Saluda River Drive before reaching the Saluda River.

One waterfall is located about half a mile from the Sunset Boulevard entrance to Botanical Parkway, just before the bridge on the left. Another is across the street, on a wider stream before the bridge on the right. A smaller waterfall can also be seen on the left side.

The Pineview Ruritan Club has marked a Historical Recognition Site on Sunset Boulevard near Botanical Parkway, noting the importance of Double Branch. The sign states:

Pineview Ruritan Club has designated a Historical Recognition Site” “The Nelling Spring Branch and the Burton Swamp Branch come together at this point to form Double Branch. Nelling Springs was a recreational area and meeting place for local settlers. Double Branch was noted as a watering place on the Old Indian Trail between Senn’s Falls on the Saluda River and the Ninety Six District in the Upcountry.”

In addition to Double Branch, a lively stream runs parallel to Redbird Lane and Sunset Boulevard in West Columbia. After heavy rains, hearing the rushing water is soothing and restorative for residents whose backyards border the stream. This natural water feature is one of the area’s most beautiful.

Click for link to waterfall on Botanical Parkway

Despite the growth of new businesses, commerce, and housing, West Columbia remains rich in natural beauty. From waterfalls to bubbling brooks and lush greenery, strolling along its scenic paths is a rewarding experience.e.

Hilly landscape on Botanical parkway, and aquatic life list, below: