Masters Week Beyond Golf: Outdoor Adventures in Augusta, Georgia

The Augusta Riverwalk stretches for nearly three miles along the Savannah River, and it's become one of my favorite urban trail systems in the Southeast. What makes it special isn't just the path itself—it's the way it connects you to the city's history through its bridges and architecture. The 5th Street Bridge, built in 1916, offers stunning views both up and downstream, and I've spent early mornings there watching the light change on the water while doing pre-run stretches.

For families, the Riverwalk is remarkably versatile. The paved path is wide enough for strollers, bikes, and runners to coexist peacefully. My nephews, ages 8 and 11, loved the interactive fountains near the amphitheater—bring a towel and let kids cool off in the spring heat. The path also connects to Broad Street, where you can grab breakfast at one of the local cafes. I always pack a hydration pack for longer morning runs, but for family walks, simple water bottles work fine. The real magic happens at sunrise or just before sunset when the river reflects the historic buildings and the crowds thin out.

Just fifteen minutes from downtown Augusta, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is a 1,100-acre wetland preserve that feels worlds away from the tournament crowds. I discovered it accidentally three years ago while looking for a long training run route, and it's become my go-to recommendation for families wanting to experience Georgia's natural ecosystems.

The park features over eight miles of trails, including both paved and natural surface paths. The main loop is about 3.5 miles and takes you through bottomland hardwood forests, across elevated boardwalks over wetlands, and past observation platforms where my nephews spotted herons, turtles, and even an alligator (from a very safe distance). The Education Center is excellent—interactive exhibits explain the wetland restoration process, and the staff genuinely loves sharing knowledge with kids.

What struck me most was the architectural thoughtfulness of the boardwalks and observation structures. They're designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing views, a philosophy I appreciate as someone who photographs sacred spaces and natural environments. Bring a field guide if you're interested in bird identification—spring migration makes April particularly rewarding for birders. The trails are well-marked and suitable for all fitness levels, though I'd recommend closed-toe shoes with good tread for the unpaved sections.

Brick Pond Park doesn't show up in most Augusta guides, which is exactly why I love it. Located in North Augusta (technically South Carolina, but just across the river), this 90-acre park offers mountain biking trails, disc golf, and a network of running paths that wind through pine forests and around its namesake pond.

The trail system here is more rugged than the Riverwalk—expect roots, slight elevation changes, and narrower paths. For families with older kids or teens looking for something more adventurous, it's perfect. My nephews tried disc golf for the first time here (the course is free), and while we spent more time searching for discs in the woods than actually playing, it became the highlight of their trip. The park also connects to the Greeneway, a rails-to-trails project that eventually links to downtown Augusta.

From a runner's perspective, the 2.5-mile loop around the pond is ideal for tempo runs, with enough variation in terrain to keep things interesting. I appreciate that the park maintains its natural character—minimal development, lots of shade, and a genuine sense of being in the woods despite being minutes from suburban neighborhoods. If you're planning to spend a few hours here, pack a portable hammock and find a spot between the pines near the pond. It's the kind of place that rewards slowing down.

As someone fascinated by bridges and infrastructure, the Augusta Canal is my kind of historical site. Built in 1845, this seven-mile canal powered Augusta's textile industry and remains one of the few intact power canals in the United States. Today, it's a National Heritage Area with a towpath trail that offers both historical interpretation and excellent outdoor recreation.

The canal towpath is mostly flat and shaded—perfect for family bike rides. We rented bikes from the Discovery Center (reasonably priced, and they have child seats and tag-alongs available) and rode about five miles out and back. The water flows steadily beside you, and interpretive signs explain the canal's engineering and its role in Augusta's industrial history. What fascinated me most were the old mill buildings, some restored, some in beautiful decay—architectural photography opportunities at every turn.

For families wanting a unique perspective, the Petersburg Boat offers 90-minute canal tours. It's narrated, climate-controlled, and gives you a water-level view of the canal's locks and infrastructure. My nephews were surprisingly engaged, especially when the guide explained how the canal still generates hydroelectric power. The Discovery Center itself is worth an hour—interactive exhibits on local history, ecology, and engineering. I picked up a local history book there that deepened my understanding of the region's industrial past.

Augusta during Masters Week presents unique logistical challenges, but with some planning, outdoor activities become your secret weapon for enjoying the city's energy without the crowds. Accommodation prices spike dramatically—I've learned to book six months ahead or look in North Augusta or Evans for better rates. Traffic around the National Golf Club is predictably heavy, but most outdoor spaces are in opposite directions and remain accessible.

Weather in April is generally ideal—highs in the 70s to low 80s, occasional rain. I always pack a sun protection shirt for extended time outdoors, and a lightweight rain jacket lives in my daypack. The spring pollen count can be intense in Georgia, so if anyone in your family has allergies, come prepared with medication.

One unexpected benefit of visiting during Masters Week: the city goes all-in on hospitality. Restaurants extend hours, local businesses are staffed up and ready for visitors, and there's a genuine buzz in the air. You're experiencing Augusta at its most energized, just without the tournament ticket prices. The outdoor spaces I've described offer that rare combination—accessible, affordable, and genuinely rewarding for families with varying interests and fitness levels.