Kayaking the Canal

Kayaking the Augusta Canal

Get Outdoors in Augusta

When you think of Augusta, the Masters golf tournament or James Brown might be the first things that come to your mind. However, what you may not know is that Augusta is a fantastic place to get out and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Here are my suggestions for great outdoor attractions and activities in Augusta, Georgia.

Augusta Riverwalk

Augusta Riverwalk

Augusta Riverwalk

Augusta is situated along the Savannah River, which forms the state line between Georgia and South Carolina. Take a stroll down the multilevel Riverwalk and enjoy the scenery of the river, gardens, abundant opportunities for picnicking and a playground for kids (and kids at heart). The Riverwalk is a great place to experience 4th of July fireworks, the St. Patrick's Day Celebration and the Augusta Market on the River, where you can find fresh produce, food and crafts during the warmer months of the year. It is also home to the Jessye Norman Amphitheatre, a unique spot for outdoor concerts.

The Augusta Canal

Augusta Canal Boat Tours

Augusta Canal Boat Tours

The Augusta Canal was built to provide water to textile mills and factories that used hydropower to operate large machinery. Today, you can tour the canal by boat, bike or foot. If you have your own canoe or kayak, you can put in at the canal head gates and paddle the 7 miles past Lake Olmstead to the 13th Street Bridge. There are several outfitters in town that offer boat rentals and shuttles. Because there are no gas-powered boats allowed in the canal, the only traffic you will see is tour boats and other paddlers. It's pretty cool to be on the water, viewing birds, turtles and possibly alligators, and heading right through the heart of downtown at the same time.

If you'd rather stick to land, you can experience the Canal Trail, a dirt path that runs the length of the canal and is great for biking or hiking. The trail is shaded by large trees, so it is enjoyable year-round, and there are different entrance points, so you don't have to trek the entire length of the trail.

Disc Golf

International Disc Golf Center, Facebook

International Disc Golf Center

Augusta is home to the PDGA International Disc Golf Center, making it a mecca for disc golfers. You can toss some discs there or at several different courses throughout the area. Just bring your own discs, and you're all set. Pendleton King Park is great for beginners. If you're looking for a challenge, I suggest the Lake Olmstead course, which is built around the water.

The Augusta Greenjackets

Auggie
Auggie

The Augusta Greenjackets are a minor league team affiliated with the San Francisco Giants that plays at Lake Olmstead Stadium, just minutes from downtown. The tickets are affordable, and the beer is cold, making it a great option for a night out with family or friends. Insider tip: Don't miss the chance to have your picture taken with the mascot Auggie!

Camping

Mistletoe State Park

Mistletoe State Park

After all of your outdoor adventures, it's time to relax with nature. What better way to do that than by camping at Lake Thurmond? Mistletoe State Park is only about 30 minutes from downtown and a great place to set up camp. You’ll be right on the banks of Lake Thurmond, where you can swim, boat or simply laze about and enjoy your surroundings. The last time I camped there, the weather was perfect and peaceful. It's also nice to know you aren't too far from civilization in case you forget to pack any essentials.

Published: April 2019
Written by: Candy Cook
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