Timmerman Trail
Timmerman Trail is a part of the Cayce Riverwalk and Three Rivers Greenway
In late May 2026, Jesse and I traveled to Columbia, South Carolina to scope out some hiking and breweries. Neither of us had ever visited Columbia, so we were not sure what to expect. We were pleasantly surprised with the amount of outdoorsy things to do in Columbia! Before we went, we researched some places to spend some time outside. Our first destination was the Timmerman Trail. The Timmerman Trail is actually located in Cayce, which is very close to Columbia.
The Timmerman Trail is a part of the Cayce Riverwalk and Three Rivers Greenway. We started our hike at the Timmerman Trail 12th Street Extension parking lot. There are two trailheads – we went to the one with the kayak put-in.
There are Alligators in the Area
The trail is completely paved and winds through the woods and along Congaree Creek. When we started off, we went slightly downhill and under a bridge onto a boardwalk. We spent a long time here looking for birds and alligators. Yes! There are alligators in the area. Even though this hike does not put you too close to the water, it is still good to be mindful of what creatures are in your surroundings.
As you continue on the trail, you will see that there are historical markers and signs. That is because the Timmerman Trail runs through the 12,000 Year History Park. This park tells the story of Cayce and the history that has taken place there in the area along the Congaree River and Congaree Creek. There is information dating back to ancient Native Americans, colonial era fur trading, and a Civil War battle. It is all very interesting if you are a history nerd like me!
This trail has views of Congaree Creek, swampy forest, boardwalks, and bridges. We saw lots of lizards, rabbits, and bugs while we were there, too. This is kind of a swampy area, so be prepared for bugs and humidity!
We Wanted to Hike a Timmerman Trail Loop
Being fully transparent, we are not sure if we stayed on the Timmerman Trail the entire time we walked. When you look at a trail map of the Three Rivers Greenway, the area is more of a trail system rather than one trail. This being said, you can choose your own adventure and make your hike as short or long as you like. There are signs located throughout the park with maps to help you find where you are.
We wanted to do a loop. We had to consistently check our map and trail markers to make sure we were completing a loop. But that is okay! Our hike was a little longer than we anticipated, but we got lucky for that day because the temps were slightly cooler and it was overcast. Our hike ended up being 3.53 miles and about an hour and forty minutes long.
This trail is fully paved with streetlights. It is not a typical “hike,” but once you are done you definitely feel like you have gone on a hike! This is an ideal area for bike riders or walkers with strollers as well. This was also a good trail system for our dogs because there was very little elevation gain (only 24 feet according to my watch). Overall, this is a great trail for hikers of all skill levels to spend time outdoors!
About 15 minutes from the trail is one of the breweries we visited during our trip to Columbia: Bierkeller Brewing Company. Bierkeller brings a slice of Bavaria to South Carolina as an authentic German brewery and biergarten.
Happy Trails!
Katie & Jesse
Tips for Your Trip to Timmerman Trail
- There are alligators in the area, so if you have dogs, be cautious! We did not see alligators while we were there, but you never know what is under the surface!
- It was very humid when we went. Bring lots of water and maybe an extra tee shirt too.
- Keep up with the trail markers so that you don’t walk in circles in the trail system.
Timmerman Trail Information
- Address: 12th St Ext at Otarre Pkwy, Cayce, SC 29033 (Google Map). View specific locations of trailheads.
- Phone: (803) 550-9520
- Trail Map: Download a Trail Map PDF
- Admission: Free
- Lodging: View places to stay near Timmerman Trail
Last Updated on July 16, 2026
