Beginning at West Point Lake, the Chattahoochee River divides Georgia from Alabama down to the Florida state line. The city of Columbus has a 22-mile linear park, its Chattahoochee RiverWalk, that connects from Lake Oliver to Ft. Benning. It winds among the oaks and vines that line the banks of the river, much of historic Columbus to one side and Phenix City across the river on the other. Shaded gazebos, an historic dock, historic monuments, a covered bridge and an amphitheater that looks out onto the serenity of the river are just a few of the things you will encounter on the Riverwalk. South of  Oakland Park, the path turns away from the river and goes through the hardwood wetland Oxbow Meadows before reaching Ft. Benning.

The city’s brick building heritage is reflected in the brick buildings you’ll see in the historic section, as well as the street itself – paved not with cobblestones, but bricks.

Another thing to look for along the RiverWalk is the underside of the Dillingham Street bridge, where part of the original structure built by former-slave-turned-bridge-builder Horace King is still visible.

Chatt Glide Tours offers a Segway Tour of the RiverWalk. John and Vicky Partin will take you on a two-hour ride via the silent motorized vehicles while pointing out the beauty and history of the area. Operating these two-wheeled marvels is part of the fun. Lean back and they roll in reverse. Lean ahead and they move forward (up to 12 mph!) Stand straight, settling into your wheels and it stops, anticipating your slightest weight change to know which way to go next. They can turn in the space of one wheel. The speed is perfect for maximum views and a cooling breeze.

The cost of the Chatt Glide Tour is $55 and they can take a maximum of eight at a time. (Groups of five or more are $45 each.) Personalized (and patient) training is included. Call 706-660-9247 to make reservations.