Best attractions and places to see around Lexington include a variety of natural and recreational areas. The region features extensive greenways and riverwalks, offering opportunities for outdoor activities. These areas are characterized by their river views, woodlands, and diverse ecosystems, providing a blend of recreation and natural beauty.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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Along the banks of the Saluda River, this greenway offers 3 miles of walkway that is ideal for walking, running, biking, skating and fishing.
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Harbison State Forest is a 2,177-acre urban oasis with miles of scenic trails for hiking and biking along the Broad River. Home to an environmental education center and self-sustaining forestry operations, it's a unique blend of recreation and conservation. There is plenty of wildlife, including deer and foxes, and over 67 species of trees, including loblolly pine, longleaf pine, and hardwoods. It's an excellent spot to immerse yourself in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
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Flat and safe riverside park. Great for running, biking, or walking
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The Three Rivers Greenway is a pathway connecting the three cities of Columbia, West Columbia and Gayce. The name comes from the three rivers that meet here: Broad, Saluda, and Congaree River. The trail provides a mix of river views, woodlands, and parks and is a great destination for hiking, running and cycling.
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This is the newest section of the Three Rivers Greenway project. The Saluda River Greenway runs directly behind the River Alliance headquarters along the Saluda River. This is simply a beautiful part of the Saluda River.
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Harbison State Forest is among the largest urban green spaces east of the Mississippi River, it offers 18 miles (ca. 29 km) of trails for mountain biking, hiking, and jogging. The 2,137-acre forest, only nine miles from Columbia, weaves through pine and hardwood landscapes, crossing streams to the river's edge.
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The most popular outdoor attractions in the Lexington area include the Saluda Riverwalk, offering three miles of scenic pathway along the Saluda River, and Harbison State Forest, a vast urban oasis with numerous trails for hiking and biking. Visitors also enjoy the Saluda River Greenway, known for its beautiful river views.
Yes, several attractions are great for families. The Saluda Riverwalk is ideal for walking, biking, and skating with children. Harbison State Forest provides an immersive nature experience for all ages, with opportunities to observe wildlife and diverse tree species. Additionally, the Three Rivers Greenway offers flat, safe riverside paths perfect for family strolls or bike rides.
For hiking and biking, Harbison State Forest offers miles of scenic trails along the Broad River. The Saluda Riverwalk is perfect for a leisurely walk, run, or bike ride along the Saluda River. You can also explore the Three Rivers Greenway, which connects three cities with pathways offering river views, woodlands, and parks.
Lexington is rich in natural beauty, particularly around its rivers. You can explore the extensive woodlands and diverse ecosystems within Harbison State Forest. The Saluda Riverwalk and Saluda River Greenway offer beautiful river views and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna along the Saluda River. The Three Rivers Greenway also provides a mix of river views and woodlands.
Yes, several outdoor areas in Lexington welcome dogs. The Saluda Riverwalk is a dog-friendly pathway along the Saluda River, perfect for walks with your canine companion. Harbison State Forest also allows dogs on its trails, making it a great spot for an immersive nature experience with your pet.
Many attractions in Lexington offer picturesque views, especially of the rivers. The Saluda Riverwalk and Saluda River Greenway provide stunning river views. From Harbison State Forest, you can enjoy scenic vistas of the Broad River. Granby Park also offers great views along the banks of the Congaree River.
Yes, there are easy hiking options. The Saluda Riverwalk is an easy, flat pathway ideal for a relaxed stroll. The easy hikes around Lexington guide features routes like the Saluda Riverwalk loop and a section of Harbison Bluff via Midlands Mountain Trail, which are suitable for beginners.
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Harbison State Forest is a prime location. The MTB Trails around Lexington guide highlights several routes within Harbison State Forest, such as the Stewardship Trail loop and Spiderwoman II Trail loop, which are rated moderate in difficulty.
Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic river views and the opportunities for immersion in nature. The Saluda Riverwalk is loved for its beautiful river scenery, while Harbison State Forest is praised for its diverse wildlife and tree species, offering a peaceful escape from city life. The flat and safe paths of the Three Rivers Greenway are also highly valued for running, biking, or walking.
While specific details on kayaking or paddleboarding access are not provided for all locations, the Saluda Riverwalk is located along the Saluda River, and Granby Park is situated along the Congaree River, both offering direct river views and potential access points for water activities. These river areas are central to the outdoor experience in Lexington.
The Three Rivers Greenway is a pathway system connecting Columbia, West Columbia, and Gayce, named for the Broad, Saluda, and Congaree Rivers that meet there. It offers a mix of river views, woodlands, and parks, making it a great destination for hiking, running, and cycling on its flat and safe riverside paths.
Yes, several trails offer excellent viewpoints. The Harbison State Forest features trails with scenic views, particularly along the Broad River. The Three Rivers Greenway and Saluda River Greenway also provide beautiful river views. Additionally, Granby Park offers great views of the Congaree River from its trail.


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