Riverwalk
The Chattahoochee Riverwalk spans a length of 15 miles beginning in uptown Columbus and ending at Fort Benning. Well paved and maintained, the trail is ideal for cycling, walking, in-line skating or jogging. Take a trip along the riverwalk to the Naval Civil War Museum or simply pack a picnic lunch and enjoy watching the river roll lazily by. Fishing is permitted along the Chattahoochee with a valid Georgia fishing permit, and you will find several areas with very large catfish.
Oxbow Meadows
Oxbow Meadows is beautifully located on the campus of Columbus State University. The park offers trails that are easily navigable by even beginning hikers and offer a plethora of bird-watching and wildlife viewing opportunities. An environmental learning center and various animal and insect displays make it ideal for nature lovers of all ages. Nature walks kick off each Saturday morning at 8 a.m. Guided by a Columbus State University staff member, hikers are directed to various bird, mammal and plant life. It is highly recommended that you bring a pair of binoculars, but the university will loan binoculars and copies of various plant, amphibian and reptile field guides. Children under 8 years old may not be admitted to this nature walk.
Oxbow Meadows
3535 Lumpkin Road
Columbus, Georgia 31903
706-687-4090
National Infantry Museum
Across from Oxbow Meadows sits the state-of-the-art National Infantry Museum, which opened in June 2009. On the 200-acre site known as Patriot Park is the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center with artifacts and memorabilia from every war from the American Revolution to the present-day Global War on Terrorism. The parade field and stadium hosts weekly Infantry soldier graduations. In addition, World War II Street and the Memorial Walk of Honor pay homage to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in securing our nation's freedom. Group tours are given of World War II Street twice daily, or group tours may be scheduled in advance. An Armor museum is planned on the grounds, with construction tentatively scheduled for 2011.
National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center
1775 Legacy Way
Columbus, Georgia 31903
706-685-5800
http://www.nationalinfantrymuseum.com
Parks
Columbus offers 48 parks within the city limits, many with hiking and fitness trails. Two parks that are extremely popular for both hiking and cycling include Cooper Creek Park in central Columbus and Flat Rock Park on the northern edge.
Columbus Parks and Recreation
107 41st Street
Columbus, Georgia 31904
706-653-4504
Fax: 706-653-4182
http://www.columbusga.org/parks/
