4 Best Places to Eno in Columbia

By Sarah Lilley ‘19

On a lazy afternoon in Columbia, there is no better activity than setting up a hammock and chilling out for a couple of hours. Being outside and reading a book, listening to music or a podcast, or just chatting with friends is the perfect way to unwind after a long day. Keep reading to find out some of the best places to hang up your hammock on campus and beyond!

Spot #1: The Iconic Horseshoe Tree

The University of South Carolina campus, particularly the Horseshoe, is known for its historic trees. One of these, an enormous live oak near the Visitor Center, is a highly sought after hammock spot, and you will find people there almost every day! With multiple large branches to choose from and complete shade from the sun, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better spot to hang for a while.

Spot #2: T-Coop Fountain Trees

Another spot on campus that is popular for eno-enthusiasts is the fountain in front of the Thomas Cooper Library. Around the fountain are multiple trees with branches that are the perfect height to hang up your hammock. This spot is more heavily trafficked than the spot on the Horseshoe, so make sure to bring headphones if the chatter bothers you!

Spot #3: Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park

Once it’s time to venture off campus, check out the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park. With water on either side of the path, this is a great place to walk/run, but if you aren’t feeling exercise, there are also some great spots to hang up a hammock. Every so often along the path there is a path to go down to the riverbank and you can easily find some trees that would work for an eno. Also, the park has some permanent hammocks in the large grassy area, so there is also an option for the eno-less!

Spot #4: West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater

The Canal is very popular, so if you arrive during peak hours and don’t dig the crowd, you can hop across the river to the West Columbia side and check out the West Columbia Riverwalk Park & Amphitheater. This park also has some great trails for walking as well as some prime spots to eno right next to the water. Some areas even have a great view of the Gervais Street bridge. You don’t run into other people as frequently here, so chances are you’ll have a nice, quiet, relaxing eno sesh. Enjoy!