News Summary
The Saluda Riverwalk will temporarily close from January 6th to 13th, 2025, for the installation of the Saluda Sky Ride Gondola at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. This essential closure is necessary for safety during tree removal and construction. However, other sections of the Riverwalk will remain open for visitors to enjoy. The Sky Ride is set to open in September 2025, as part of a broader expansion project that enhances the zoo’s offering with new facilities and habitats.
Saluda Riverwalk to Close for Exciting Gondola Installation!
Attention all outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers! A portion of the Saluda Riverwalk is set to close from January 6th to January 13th, 2025, as the highly anticipated Saluda Sky Ride Gondola Project prepares to take flight at the renowned Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. The installation of this aerial attraction promises to enhance the overall visitor experience, but the safety of Riverwalk users takes priority during this pivotal construction period.
A Necessary Closure for Safety
During the construction, a section of the Riverwalk will be off-limits to the public. The necessity of this closure is underscored by the need for tree removal to facilitate the gondola project. Safety concerns dictate that all users of the Riverwalk stay away from the construction zone, ensuring a secure environment as the installation progresses.
Get Ready for the Sky Ride!
Visitors and thrill-seekers eagerly awaiting the opening of the Sky Ride can mark their calendars for an estimated availability around mid-September 2025. This exciting addition to Riverbanks Zoo & Garden will offer a scenic view that allows guests to soar through the sky while enjoying incredible sights of the Saluda River.
Alternative Access and Open Sections
While the designated area of the Riverwalk will be closed for the entirety of the week, fear not! Other sections will remain open, granting access to visitors eager to experience nature’s beauty. Parts of the Riverwalk that can still be explored include areas adjacent to the zoo. However, access beyond the zoo grounds will be restricted for approximately four days.
More than Just a Gondola!
The construction of the Saluda Sky Ride is part of a greater initiative, known as the Bridge to the Wild expansion project. This expansion includes several new features designed to enhance the experience for guests of all ages. Expect a primitive forest bridge, a multipurpose facility along the Saluda River, and enhanced lion and tiger habitats. Plus, an expanded carousel plaza will add even more charm to the zoo’s offerings.
Stay Informed!
As the gondola project and the Bridge to the Wild expansion evolve, updates will be provided regarding new exhibits and features that will enrich the experience at Riverbanks Zoo. Enthusiasts and families planning their visits can keep an eye on the Riverbanks’ website for the latest news and detailed information on this exciting multi-phase project.
The Future Looks Bright!
With the construction work expected to demonstrate significant progress, many are optimistic that the construction blocking the Riverwalk will be concluded before January 13th. The anticipation surrounding the Saluda Sky Ride and the broader expansion of the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is palpable, and plans for a revitalized visitor experience are well underway.
As January approaches and the installation of the gondola progresses, outdoor adventurers are encouraged to remain updated on access details and enjoy the sections of the Riverwalk that remain open. Don’t miss the chance to partake in the journey of bringing a brand new feature to Riverbanks Zoo & Garden!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Saluda Riverwalk Closure for Riverbanks Zoo Expansion
Additional Resources
- ABC Columbia: Local Living Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
- Wikipedia: Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
- Lexington Chronicle: Riverbanks Zoo Free Fridays
- Google Search: Riverbanks Zoo events
- WIS TV: Riverbanks Zoo Annual Light Show
- Google Scholar: Cryptozoology and Riverbanks Zoo
- Post and Courier: Riverbanks Zoo Veterinarians
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Animal Conservation
- The State: Riverbanks Zoo Updates
- Google News: Riverbanks Zoo
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
