It’s January, but the forecast for West Columbia shows many days with temperatures in the 50s and 60s under sunny skies. Weather conditions are just right for many who are drawn to West Columbia’s Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater year-round.

The West Columbia Riverwalk is part of the 3RVRS trail network. One entrance to the West Columbia Riverwalk is adjacent to the Gervais Street Bridge. The concrete sidewalk trail accommodates all levels of physical access, including runners, walkers, strollers, and wheelchairs. You can also access the park at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Lucas Street, at the Moffatt Street entrance. There is free parking at both entrances and at Carraway Park at the Riverwalk, across the street from the Riverwalk Amphitheater.

Locals cannot get enough of the Riverwalk experience.

JT Thomas, a Brookland-Cayce High School graduate from West Columbia, is a sophomore at the University of South Carolina. He lives in Columbia but makes regular visits to the West Columbia Riverwalk.

“I don’t like to miss too many days away from walking on the Riverwalk. I’ve been coming here all my life,” he said. “I come over here when I have any break in my schedule. It’s so good to get outside and get some fresh air. And the river is always relaxing. I love it in the spring and summer, but it’s my favorite place in the winter, too.”

If you know, you know that Riverwalk may be the top outdoor spot for recreation. But the West Columbia Riverwalk is not a secret to those from near or far. West Columbia’s Riverwalk is the top destination in the area for non-locals seeking outdoor physical activity. Visitors come from Charlotte, Augusta, Charleston, and even farther, according to Google Reviews. Thousands have left comments, and the West Columbia Riverwalk receives a near-5-star rating from the many who take the time to comment on their Riverwalk experience on Google Reviews. Below are some examples from visitors to the Riverwalk.

“I’ve been waiting to experience the Riverwalk in (West) Columbia, SC, and it was absolutely worth it! The moment I stepped onto the path, I was greeted with pure tranquility. The combination of nature, fresh air, and the calming sound of the river made it such a peaceful escape. Everything was well-kept and clean, which made the walk even more enjoyable. The sights along the way were simply beautiful — from the flowing water to the natural greenery, it felt like a little hidden gem right in the city. I left feeling refreshed and already know I’ll be back again soon. Highly recommend it if you need a dose of nature and serenity!” Melissa Hatten.

“I drove from Charlotte to visit the West Columbia Riverwalk…. had a great time and highly recommend….The site also has bathrooms and a shower to clean off after your trip. Overall, I enjoyed my visit and highly recommend this place!. M White.

“Such a great place to get exercise, along with being outdoors, enjoying great scenery. The Riverwalk Metal Band was one of my favorites to see!” Trisha W.

“A beautiful riverside setting where you can walk, ride, jog, bring your dog, or just sit and enjoy the view.” Jane Voloshin.

“I had such a wonderful experience, it’s just set up to awe you. First of all, it’s very clean. Next, the sights and sounds are amazing. I walked about 7 miles now. I just want to keep going back. Secondly, it’s very cool, pet-friendly, and child-friendly. I’m shocked that we don’t have many people tapping into this best-kept secret. I would rather spend all day in this park than go to a mall.” Osimbo Anthony.

“One of my favorite trails in Columbia! Clean, extensive, great views.” Camille Demarinis.

“Always a great time there. Trails were great, and the dogs enjoyed the water access during the heat. Great family experience for everyone.” A

“What an awesome, serene place, even with so many people walking, talking, and dog walking. Lovely, beautiful view of the river.” Pam Abdullah.

TRACK Trail

According to SC Trails, the West Columbia Riverwalk is an official Kids in Parks TRACK Trail. Kids in Parks is a FREE, national program that connects families to the outdoors through hands-on exploration. Self-guided TRACK Trail activities and smartphone e-Adventures turn any outing into a fun-filled, discovery-packed adventure. TRACK your adventures to earn prizes along the way!

The Riverwalk is also a great venue to hold an event, a marriage ceremony, a concert, a theater event, or a fundraiser. At the West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater, you can add a picturesque local touch to any event. Located at the corner of Meeting Street and Alexander Road next to the Gervais Street Bridge, this venue offers: Click here

• Picturesque outdoor amphitheater space
• Easy to find location
• Ample parking
• On-site ADA Accessible public restrooms
• Shower
• Easy access to an array of dining and shopping options
• FREE Public Wi-Fi
• Bicycle Repair Station
• Hiking
• Kid-Friendly Hiking
• Outdoor Workout Equipment
• Little Free Library

West Columbia Public Parks

• B Avenue Ball Park – 815 B Avenue (Baseball, Football, Restrooms)
• Carraway Park at the Riverwalk – A Place for All Children to Play Together – 212 Hudson Street (Restrooms, Covered Picnic Tables (First Come, First Serve), All-Inclusive Playground
• Douglas Reeves Community Park – 761 Augusta Street (Tennis, Playground, Restrooms, Bicycle Repair Station, FREE Public Wi-Fi)
• Rosamunda Percell-Butler Community Park – 1100 Raleigh Street (Basketball, Playground, Picnic Shelter, FREE Public Wi-Fi)
• Fowler Community Park – 1800 C Avenue (Playground, Picnic Shelter)
• Tri-City Leisure Center
• Howard Sports Complex – Baseball and Softball fields
• Interactive Art Park – 425 Meeting Street (Interactive Art Sculptures, FREE Public Wi-Fi, Parking)
• Moffatt Street Entrance to the Riverwalk – 100 Riverside Drive, West Columbia (Bicycle Repair Station, FREE Public Wi-Fi)
• West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater – 109 Alexander Road, West Columbia (Bicycle Repair Station, Restrooms, FREE Public Wi-Fi)
• · Bark West Dog Park – 1940 Augusta Road (Membership required)

The West Columbia Riverwalk is a treasure in your own backyard. West Columbia is fortunate to have such a natural attraction that the City has made accessible to everyone.