Time-worn stone arches. A cascading waterfall. Jagged rocks perfect for climbing. Aqueduct Park in Augusta, GA, offers all these attractions and more. It’s set in a beautiful green space just minutes from downtown, and it’s free to enter!
 

AQUEDUCT PARK HISTORY

Built in 1855 by Italian stonemasons, Rae's Creek Aqueduct is a remarkable pre-Civil War structure in Augusta, GA. Now part of the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, it is the centerpiece of Aqueduct Park.

Created with granite from Stone Mountain, its double-vaulted design resembles European architecture. The aqueduct’s original purpose was to carry the Augusta Canal over Rae’s Creek. In 1872, the canal was enlarged and straightened, and Rae's Creek was dammed above the Augusta Canal waterfall by plugging the aqueduct. This created nearby Lake Olmstead, named after the engineer in charge of the project, and now a popular recreation area.

After its closure, Rae's Creek Aqueduct slowly fell into disrepair, and by the 1980s, the area was covered with garbage. Even the front end of a 1950 Chevy was sticking out of the brackish water. Thankfully, in 2008, a volunteer group hauled out 12 tons of trash and restored the aqueduct to its original beauty!
 

THINGS TO DO IN AQUEDUCT PARK

Today, there's no shortage of exciting things to do and see at Aqueduct Park. In addition to exploring the remarkable pre-Civil War aqueduct and canal, visitors can hike and bike the adjacent six-mile Towpath Trail. This popular path will take you past wildlife habitats and expansive clearings.

Aqueduct Park is also a regional rock climbing destination. If you're the gravity-defying type, bring your helmet and harness and spend an afternoon scaling the park's crags!

Getting hitched? In addition to its recreational activities, Rae's Creek Aqueduct is a popular wedding and engagement photo backdrop, thanks to its combination of intriguing architecture and great natural light.
 

KID- AND DOG-FRIENDLY SWIMMING

If you’re looking for a relaxing place to splash around with your family, look no further than Aqueduct Park. 

A 0.5-mile dirt path across the bridge from the Lake Olmstead Trailhead will lead you to the base of a 35-foot waterfall that gushes into a swimming hole. 

This pristine pool is kid- and dog-friendly and safe for swimming and wading. Pro tip: Bring water shoes. The surrounding rocks can get very slippery. 
 

GETTING THERE

You can access Aqueduct Park on foot from the Augusta Canal. Take Mill Village Trail and cross the bridge at the Lake Olmstead Trailhead. 

Traveling by car? Head northwest on Goodrich Street, which turns into a dirt road along the canal. Turn left to reach the park. Parking is available near the picnic area and on the side of the road.
 

WHEN TO VISIT

Aqueduct Park is open all year round! However, swimming in the creek's brisk waters is more enjoyable when the weather is hot. If you're looking to beat the crowds, swim around lunchtime, as fishermen typically descend upon the park in the evenings.
 

WHAT TO BRING

Depending on the activities you choose, you'll need everything from a bathing suit and water shoes to rope and carabiners! Also, don't forget waterproof sunblock, snacks, water, and your phone or camera to capture the beauty all around.