Riverwalk Spotlight: Cayce Rivewalk
Prefer a quieter walk in nature than the often busy West Columbia Riverwalk or Riverfront Park? The Cayce Riverwalk is the spot for you. The Cayce Riverwalk may see less visitors than some other areas of the Three Rivers Greenway, but it’s just as beautiful. The ADA accessible trail spans 12 miles, connecting hotspots like the Cayce Boat Landing, Timmerman Trail, and 12,000 Year History Park.
Features
History. There are tons of historical sites right on the riverwalk. Check out the 12,000 Year History park, which is connected to the riverwalk by the Timmerman Trail, notice remnants of old Cayce, and look out for wayside signs along the riverwalk explaining the significance of the area.
Cayce Riverwalk Pavilion. The pavilion, located at the main entrance of the park at 201 Naples Avenue, can be reserved for free. The nearby Congaree Shelter picnic area, which has an unobstructed river view, can also be reserved for free. Visit https://caycesc.gov/riverwalk.php for more info.
Thomas A. Newman Boat Landing. The Thomas A. Newman Boat Landing, also referred to as the Cayce Boat Landing, supports all your boating needs, from kayaks and canoes to larger motorized boats. Located at the end of Granby Landing Rd, the landing also has a riverwalk entrance and plenty of parking.
Public Art. Hand carved wooden animal sculptures crafted by local artist Wade Geddings are placed throughout the riverwalk. These sculptures are carved from naturally fallen trees. North of the Blossom St. bridge you’ll find the wrought iron “lion bench” by artists John and Venetia Sharpe. Where the Riverwalk goes through Cayce’s River Arts District, look out for stunning murals, welded sculptures, and art studios.
Things To Do
Walking Tour. On Saturdays in the spring and fall, The River Alliance hosts ~2 mile walking tours of the 12,000 Year History Park. Explore the Civil War battle site and learn about the area’s rich history, both human and ecological.
Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve. Right off of the Cayce Riverwalk, the trails of the Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve are more primitive and perfect for a hike in nature. The preserve is managed by SCDNR and spans 627 acres.
Go birding. Because the area is a bit more secluded than other parts of the Three Rivers Greenway, the Cayce Riverwalk is the perfect place to spot owls, eagles, hawks, and other local and migratory birds. Immerse yourself in the forest and follow the calls or stake out at one of the many river overlooks to spot some water birds.
Other Things to Know
Access. The main entrance of the Cayce Riverwalk is at 201 Naples Avenue, but see the map below for additional parking lots.
Hours. The Cayce Riverwalk is open from dawn to dusk.
While the Cayce Riverwalk has the gorgeous river views, miles of ADA trails, and well-maintained bridges, benches, and boardwalks that are features of all of the Three Rivers Greenway, the Cayce Riverwalk is special in that it connects so many sights, historical areas, and recreational assets of the area. One could go from shopping in the Cayce River Arts District to playing at the playground to exploring Granby Locks and go all the way to West Columbia all without returning to their car. With 12 miles of pathways, there’s always something new to explore.
