1. Bike Rides
This is the perfect time to head to the mountains for a bike ride with family or friends. The weather is starting to turn cool, and the slight breeze provides a nice tailwind for those of us who need an extra push. For a weekend trip, try the Virginia Creeper Trail, near Damascus Virginia, or explore trails around Columbia to add a few hours of exercise into your weekend. The 13.5-mile GHS Swamp Rabbit Trail in Greenville, South Carolina, is a great local option.
2. Corn Mazes
The Clinton Sease Farm Corn Maze is a relatively short drive from Columbia and a fun way to spend time with a couple of friends. Have fun getting lost in the dark, but be sure to bring a couple of flashlights just in case.
3. Fall Flavors
The best part of going home? The pumpkin and spice smell when you walk through the front door. Pumpkin muffins, pumpkin pie, pumpkin custard, pumpkin cookies and everything else in between. Make sure to stock up on pumpkin pie filling now because there’s an expected pumpkin shortage this year.
4. Changing Colors
Take a walk along the West Columbia Riverwalk and enjoy all of the changing colors of the leaves.
5. Pumpkin Patches
Who are we kidding? No matter how old you are, picking the best pumpkin in the patch is still great fun.
6. Hikes with Great Views
Grab a pullover, scarf and a pair of gloves and head outside. Whether you walk, run or bike the Harbison Loop in Harbison State Forest, or invest in a drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway Mountains, being short of breath is worth the pain. You will be rewarded at the top with autumn views.
7. Breaks
Once students finally make it to mid-October, the flurry of breaks begins. Fall Break, Thanksgiving Break, Christmas Break and not to mention our unexpected week-long flood break.