Friday, May 14, 2021

Saluda Shoals Park

 Saluda Shoals Park is a 400 acre spot to escape safely into nature.

A paved trail runs the length of the park along the Saluda River. So even if it has been raining, there are no worries of mud! It has been perfect for social distancing too since this park does not get crowded the way the free riverwalks do.

There are overlooks leading to the river. The walkways are well shaded so in the hot, summer months it can be comfortable for a morning walk.

One can relax with a snack, a book or whatever.

Fishing is permitted here so one is likely to see a sportsman or 2 along the river.

Kayaks and canoes are also common to see.

If unpaved nature trails are your thing, the option is here as well.

The park is fantastic for biking and walking the dog.
This gigantic acorn just got a face lift. The twig topper was worn by nature so it was replaced to appear new again.

Fragrant wildflowers fill the olfactory senses. They may also stuff up those senses depending on allergies!

Gigantic thistle makes occasional appearances.
In spring, pretty tulip poplar flower droppings decorate the walkway.

Southern snow can be seen in spring (I believe this is from the Eastern Cottonwood Tree).

Like any great park, there is locally made artwork.

Usable artwork is a bonus.

The park has nature programs for the kids. Art made by the little ones is also on display.

Other pluses to this park include:

  • a boat ramp for kayaking and canoeing
  • dog park
  • picnic shelters
  • splash pad for the kids
  • playground

If you go, the park is located at:

5605 Bush River Road
Columbia, SC

Open daily:

March thru October 7am - 8pm
November thru February 7am - 5:30pm

Visitor admission is $5 per vehicle. An annual pass is $55.

Park Website

Have a marvelous day/evening (wherever you are on the clock)! ~Val

16 comments:

  1. What a lovely place for a nature walk! And I love seeing those big Scottish thistles, och aye.

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    1. Thank you Debra! The Scottish thistle is awesome to see!

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  2. What a nice place to take a walk, breathing in the sweet fragrance wildflowers and seeing the great of artworks.

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    1. Thank you Evi. It always feels amazing when enjoying nature!

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  3. What a lovely park! The thistle is impressive and I love the public art. That bench is extra pretty.

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    1. Thank you Jeanie! I have never seen thistle so big until we moved south!

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  4. Amazing park Val! Would love to walk here! That giant acorn is cool! Big Hugs!

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    1. Thank you Stacy! The giant acorn is so cool and unexpected!

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  5. So pleased to see you blogging again! What a lovely park. The fish sculpture is great.

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    1. Thank you Lisa! We are starting to live life again post vaccination! It feels wonderful.

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  6. That park looks like a magnificent place for a stroll, and the artwork is awesome. Your profile caught my attention as my wife and I are also New England transplants to the Carolinas for the very same reasons. Wonderful post!

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    1. Thank you for stopping by! I hope you are enjoying the Carolinas as much as we are!

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  7. That looks a very nice place to take a walk.
    I enjoyed seeing your photographs.

    All the best Jan

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    1. Thank you Jan. It is such a peaceful place to walk.

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