Outdoor Recreation & Leisure Activities 

There are numerous opportunities for exciting recreational activities in and around Columbus.  Delightful outings are easy to find both inside the city limits and right nearby. Whether visiting for the first time, or renewing your acquaintance with our historic town, be sure to check out some of the following points of interest.

Gibson Park.  Gibson Park is located on Park Street in Columbus, offering a very close by source of exercise and fun.  The park includes an outdoor swimming pool, a baseball diamond, a picnic area, and space to just let loose and run around.  Call 828-894-8199 for pool hours and other information.

Stearns Park.  Stearns Park is located at on Mills Street (Hwy. 108) in front of  Stearns School in downtown Columbus.  The historic Stearns School building, which now houses the Polk County Schools administrative offices, is surrounded by a large grassy field.  The grounds are complete with a walking path, a gazebo, numerous large trees, and a playground area for the youngsters.  This is a perfect place to enjoy your daily walk, picnic with friends, relax with a good book, or take in the numerous events, which are scheduled in Stearns Park. 

Veteran's Park.  Located at the corner of Ward and Gibson Streets, Veterans Park is a beautiful urban style park.  The water fountain here is nicely complemented by the flag display; surrounding landscaping; and a  brick memorial to all veterans who have served our country from Polk County, the central focus of the park. 

The park offers picnic tables and places to sit, as well as a grassy knoll.  This is also the location of “Saturdays in the Park,” a summer music series hosted by Columbus’ business association; the July 4th Gospel Sing; and Memorial Day observations. The park can also be reserved for family and organizational events.

Weaverbarton Shuford Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary.  This mixed hardwood habitat provides a haven for numerous birds and other critters.  The well maintained walking path is provided with benches for your convenience.  This a great place to get outside and enjoy some exercise or just to commune with nature in the midst of a busy schedule.  The sanctuary is located down Shuford Road not far past Bi-Lo.  Look for the turn off parking area and trail head on your right as your heading out of town.

Raymond Fitness Trail.  This trail system is also set in a beautiful hardwood forest.  The path is provided with fitness stations along the way for the ultimate exercise experience.  The trail can be accessed from the back parking lot of Saint Luke’s Hospital or from the parking lot of the Polk County Library. 

Red Fox Country Club.  For all of the golfers out there, this semi-private golf course is located less than 6 miles from Columbus.  Designed by Ellis Maples, this course is sure to challenge your game.  Call 828-894-8251 for rates and tee times.

Shunkawken Falls.  While this visit does not offer a lot of exercise opportunity, the views make up for it.  Drive up White Oak Mountain Drive, which cuts through the waterfall to catch a glimpse of the flowing water.  The road is narrow with minimal pull outs so be very careful if you decide to stop.  The top of White Oak Mountain also offers some spectacular views of Columbus and far off into Polk County from above.