Completing the Lower Saluda Greenway

 The Lower Saluda River is a popular refuge from Columbia’s hectic urban landscape but its beauty and assets are under pressure from increased foot traffic and disturbances to its natural habitat.  Stakeholders recognized the importance of maintaining these natural resources and maximizing accessibility to the Greenway.   Imagine parking at Lake Murray and walking or riding a bike to downtown Columbia – possibly even for commuting to school or work!

This dream provided the stimulus for consideration of a coherent and connected trail system along the Lower Saluda River.

The 12-mile greenway is expected to economically transform the Lower Saluda Greenway District as the Swamp Rabbit Trail has transformed Travelers Rest.

The Saluda River is a Class A Scenic River as designated by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. This designation offers protections for the Lower Saluda through conservation easements.  To ensure the project’s success, we have planned around the greenway’s pre-existing natural infrastructure to reduce habitat disturbances along the River.