Sometimes it may seem we’re always sending you on epic hikes that involve climbing up – or over – mountains, but a trail doesn’t need to be strenuous to be rewarding. Take a look below at this boardwalk trail in the Midlands. We think you’ll agree; it’s the most unique hike around!

The Boardwalk Loop at Congaree National Park is 2.4 miles in length and winds through an ancient forest with much to see and admire.
Flickr/Chris Palmer
The trail begins at the Visitor's Center, where you'll want to stop and grab a map before you begin. The park is comprised of more than 26,000 acres, so you'll want to have that map on hand (you know, for additional spontaneous exploration... ).
Flickr/Ken Lund
TripAdvisor/angie1966d
Then hit the trail, as they say. One of the nicest things about the Boardwalk Loop at Congaree is that it's fully wheelchair accessible and it has little elevation change.
TripAdvisor/rexaustin99
Google Maps/Andres Acosta

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There is a lot to see and admire along the Boardwalk Loop. In the higher parts of the trail you'll get an up close look at the giant trees found in the forest. Congaree National Park preserves the largest tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States. Shown below is a Loblolly Pine, which can grow up to 10 stories (approximately 100 feet).
Flickr/ Miguel Vieira
The elevated parts of the boardwalk wander through the lowlands in the park. Here you'll get a look at the swamp and those water-trodden (but healthy!) Cypress trees. Next to them are what are commonly known as Cypress Knees.
Flickr/Ken Lund
Google Maps/Sergiu Petrovan
Another perk of the Boardwalk Loop is all of the benches located along the route. The trail is only 2.4 miles long, so for most, these benches are merely for quiet contemplation as you sit and admire this aged forest.
Google Maps/Vang Pha
Google Maps

Congaree National Park is located at 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061, and is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Admission is free. Get more information from the official website of the National Park Service.

For two weeks out of every year (usually beginning sometime in May) at Congaree National Park you can experience a lightning bug phenomenon that is outrageously cool. Take a peek in this previous article.

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