Enjoy our Great Natural Resources

The Lower Saluda Scenic River is recognized as an outstanding recreational resource. The tailrace waters from Lake Murray reservoir provide a cold water fishery and varying water levels for recreational boating. Trout and striped bass fishing as well as whitewater (class II to V rapids) and flatwater paddling are very popular on this piedmont river. These factors, combined with the surrounding topography and rock outcrops similar to mountain streams and the heavily wooded landscape, make the Lower Saluda River corridor an outstanding natural resource within the urban environment of metropolitan Columbia.

Kayaking, Canoeing, Tubing, and Fishing are enjoyed on the waters of the Lower Saluda and the Congaree.  Our system has been ranked among the Top 10 Canoe towns in America by Paddler Magazine.

Kayaking

The Lower Saluda River is considered a "low flow" river on most days.  This makes the river an outstanding playground for beginning Kayakers.  The 10 mile stretch known as the Lower Saluda offers nine sets of rapids rated from Class II to Class IV during normal flow.  Advanced Kayaking is enjoyed during High Release days from the Lake Murray Dam.  To check water flow rates and other conditions click here.   The strong currents provide paddling opportunities usually found in the mountains. 

Canoeing

The Lower Saluda and the Congaree offer a wealth of conoeing options and variety for all ages.  Paddling the Lower Saluda brings some paly with the sets of rapids encountered.  As you converge into the Congaree the river settles into a more peacefull flow continuing some 47 miles to it confluence with the Wateree River. 

Tubing

One of the most popular ways for the traveler to enjoy a scenic West Metro afternoon is a float down the river in a custome designed tube.   This may be the most peacefull way to unwind for the weary business traveler.  A float down the cool river on a warm summer's day is an escape to nature only minutes from the busy downtown business district.

Fishing Just Blocks form the State Capital

Local anglers have kept secret one of the most incredible experiences in our area for decades.  The rivers of the West Metro provide a very unique fishing experience in the shadows of the State Capital.   For a great story on this unique experience click here.

Don Davis, a 64-year-old health care consultant from Daytona Beach, Fla., is a repeat client of Frank’s Fly Arts who learned about fishing on our rivers online while in town for business. He calls Columbia a hidden gem.

“Right in the middle of an urban area; it’s just amazing,” Davis says of the fishing here.