Kephart Bridge Landing

Located within the 122-acres of Elizabeth Mills Riverfront Park on Lower Goose Creek, Kephart Bridge Landing is both an access point for launching a carry-in canoe and kayak into the Goose and an entry to the riverfront nature trail.

Whether you want to go kayaking, birding or walking, this is a great area to explore nature and history.

In terms of history, along your walk, you’ll see remnants of old stone walls that were the old Goose Creek canal locks that served grain operations in the 1800s, part of George Washington’s idea for a commercial highway through the area. To see remnants of George Kephart’s Elizabeth Mills — found on the east bank of the creek, just before the Riverside Parkway overpass — you’ll need to hike upstream along the trail. No interpretive signs are posted so keep your eyes peeled.

Walking along the trail either upstream or down, watch for herons and egrets fishing in the water. Various small fish are found in the creek as it meanders. The calmer areas provide nurseries for small fry as they grow. You’ll also see warblers, flycatchers and swallows flitting through the trees in summer. This is also a great place to look for dragonflies and damselflies.

In the water, you may see the northern watersnake but don’t be afraid – they are non-venomous. They can be seen hunting for food and taking refuge in the crevices of rocks. As with all wildlife, just observe, don’t provoke or pester them.